Toronto Maple Leafs general manager John Chayka delivered a reassuring message to fans regarding the trade speculation surrounding forward Matthew Knies.
The Canadian franchise is expected to undergo several changes this summer, in addition to those that have already taken place, including the change at general manager following the dismissal of Brad Treliving and the arrival of Chayka, as well as the firing of head coach Craig Berube.
Roster changes are also expected, and while there has been significant speculation regarding Knies’ future, all indications suggest that the forward will remain in Toronto.
What John Chayka said about Matthew Knies’ future
After acquiring Darren Raddysh from the Tampa Bay Lightning in exchange for a fifth-round pick, Chayka spoke to the media on Friday and addressed Knies’ future.
While he made it clear that he is willing to evaluate any potential trade opportunity, he also emphasized that he is unlikely to trade any member of the team’s young core, including Knies, 23.
“On any type of trade speculation, I think I was pretty direct on Knies in my opening press conference,” Chayka said Friday.
“The statement still stands. In my job as GM, we will evaluate everything, but that is the job. Again, the idea that we are going to improve the roster by moving a top young player, I mean, anything is possible, but I guess it is not probable. I think it makes for good writing and interest for people, but as we think about our team and how we can improve, that is a tough bar to hurdle.”
