Knies Says McKenna Has Handled Toronto Spotlight 'Really Maturely'

Matthew Knies believes Gavin McKenna is ready for the attention that comes with joining the Toronto Maple Leafs as the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NHL Draft.

"I think it's a big market to step into and it might be a little bit big at times, a little bit overwhelming, but I think he's handled everything really maturely," Knies said Wednesday on the JD Bunkis Podcast.

Knies, selected 57th in 2021, said McKenna's skill and maturity should help the 18-year-old adjust. He added that he hopes McKenna will speak up and ask questions whenever he needs support.

Knies also reflected on Toronto's 78-point season, which ended with the Maple Leafs last in the Atlantic Division. He said the team expected a playoff berth to come together and ultimately "took the season for granted and let it just kind of blow away."

The forward said he also took his health for granted while playing through a knee injury. With that issue behind him, Knies likes the mix of unselfish players and different roles on Toronto's roster.

The Maple Leafs open their preseason Saturday against the Montreal Canadiens at 7 p.m. ET.