The Toronto Maple Leafs are entering a new era, and the city is still buzzing from the seismic shift that saw Mitch Marner traded to the Las Vegas Golden Knights.

While fans grapple with the loss of one of their brightest stars, all eyes have turned to Matthew Knies—a rising forward who thrived alongside Marner and Auston Matthews on the Leafs’ top line last season.

With a fresh contract extension and sky-high expectations, Knies now faces the daunting challenge of maintaining his momentum without the playmaking brilliance of Marner by his side.

But what does Knies really think about Marner’s departure? In a candid interview, Knies shared his feelings on the transition, offering a glimpse into the emotional and professional realities that come with such a major shakeup.

His words reveal more than just respect for his former teammate—they hint at the uncertainty and hope that define this pivotal moment for both Knies and the franchise.

As Toronto fans await the next chapter, the question remains: can Knies rise to Core Four status and lead the Leafs into a new era, or will the absence of Marner change everything? The full story offers insights that every hockey fan will want to discover.

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Auston Matthews, Matthew Knies, and Mitch Marner

Photo credit: Imagn Images

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Matthew Knies recently spoke about Mitch Marner and his departure from the franchise, which has left some fans feeling slighted.

Matthew Knies was a stud on the first line last season as he found himself playing with Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner. It was as if he hit the jackpot.

The forward signed a massive contract extension this Summer, although now, he will have to keep up his production without a playmaker like Mitch Marner by his side.

As we all know by now, Marner is on the Las Vegas Golden Knights, and there is no telling who will be on the right wing next to Knies and Matthews.

Matthew Knies wishes Mitch Marner well

Recently, Knies spoke to Joshua Kloke of The Athletic, and it was here that he was asked about Marner and whether or not next season would be tough for him.

As Knies admitted, not having Marner on the team is going to be weird. However, he did have some kind words for the forward, noting that he hopes has a good time in a new city with his family.

It feels really weird, to be honest, It’s hard to picture him in a different jersey

It was once I realized that at this level it’s more of a business and you’ve got to do what’s best for yourself and your family. I hope he did that. I hope he enjoys himself and still has a lot of success because I think he meant a lot to our team and obviously to me. It just feels awkward.

This is certainly the mature response to go with. After all, bashing the guy would probably do a whole lot more harm than good at this point.

Besides, Knies is someone that the fanbase has fully embraced, and it seems very clear that he is the next guy to achieve Core Four status.

After scoring 29 goals in his sophomore season, there is no doubt that he could reach a total of 30 this season. If he pulls that off, the fans will be loving it.

Only time will tell whether or not Knies can continue to be a stud without Marner on his line.