In today’s NHL rumors rundown, a couple of insiders tried clearing up speculation surrounding Matthew Knies, while the team anxiously awaits more information on an injury to Auston Matthews. At the same time, the Buffalo Sabres continue negotiations with winger Alex Tuch, and there’s an interesting note about the future of Connor McDavid with the Edmonton Oilers.
The hit on Matthews and the Oilers’ continued struggles will dominate the headlines on Friday, but there is plenty of speculation around the NHL this week.
Maple Leafs Never Seriously Shopped Matthew Knies
Rumors swirled following the NHL trade deadline that the Maple Leafs were considering moving Matthew Knies, but insiders say that idea has been greatly exaggerated. According to TSN’s Chris Johnston and Darren Dreger, who were on TSN OverDrive this week, Toronto never came close to trading the young forward.
Johnston explained that while teams did call about Knies, the Leafs were simply listening — not actively trying to move him. With no trade protection in his contract and significant value around the league, it’s natural that rival teams would inquire. Still, Johnston said there’s no indication discussions ever reached the serious stages.
Related: Knies to Canadiens Rumor Gets Significant Update
Dreger followed up his media partner’s comments, noting that every team has players who are “almost untouchable,” but opposing general managers will still ask what it would take. In this case, Toronto was fielding calls, not shopping the player. For now, it appears Knies remains a key piece of the Leafs’ long-term plans.
Leafs Await Auston Matthews Injury Results
The Maple Leafs are also waiting for an update on captain Auston Matthews after a dangerous collision during a recent game against the Anaheim Ducks.
Matthews left the game after taking a knee-on-knee hit from Ducks defenseman Radko Gudas late in the second period. The hit resulted in a major penalty and a game misconduct for Gudas, and the veteran blueliner is scheduled to have a hearing with the NHL Department of Player Safety. He could be suspended for as many as five games.
The Leafs star did not return to the game and is expected to undergo an MRI to determine the extent of the injury. Any significant absence would be a major blow for Toronto, especially given how important Matthews is to the club’s offensive production and leadership.
Sabres Working on Extension With Alex Tuch
Meanwhile, contract negotiations are continuing between the Buffalo Sabres and winger Alex Tuch, who could be one of the biggest names on the upcoming unrestricted free-agent market if a deal isn’t reached.
According to insider Pierre LeBrun, Buffalo wants to keep the 29-year-old forward, and discussions are ongoing. Tuch’s camp could be aiming for a deal at over $10 million on an annual cap hit. The Sabres, however, may be hoping to land somewhere closer to the $8 million average annual value that Nick Schmaltz recently signed for with the Utah Mammoth.
Interesting Long-Term Note on Connor McDavid’s Future
Finally, there’s an intriguing detail emerging about Connor McDavid’s long-term future in Edmonton. LeBrun noted in a recent article for The Athletic:
“It is important as a matter of clarification to understand the context of No. 97 signing that team-friendly, two-year extension last fall. It did not necessarily mean he was signing it to be on the Edmonton Oilers through the 2027-28 season. My understanding is that the most likely scenario was that McDavid was giving the Oilers this season and next to try and win a championship and then it was decision time again in the summer of 2027 as to where everything stood.”
source – ‘The NHL trade deadline may not have delivered, but it sets up a potentially explosive summer’ – Pierre LeBrun – The Athletic – 03-09-2026
If the team hasn’t broken through by then, McDavid could potentially consider a move — though not necessarily by walking away as a free agent. LeBrun seems to be hinting that McDavid would give the Oilers a chance to trade him.
For now, the expectation is that the superstar will continue focusing on the current championship window. However, if the Oilers were to suffer an early playoff exit again this spring, it could add another layer of intrigue.
