How Rangers Alexis Lafreniere's contract could affect the Maple Leafs Matthew Knies
Alexis Lafreniere may have helped set a new benchmark in the NHL for wingers, according to Nick Kypreos.
The Sportsnet anchor thinks that Lafreniere's new deal being signed, could lead the way as far as values go for wingers in the NHL coming off of their RFA deals. As Lafreniere's recently signed contract was a $7.45 Million AAV, a $52.15 million total deal.
Could this lead to a similar deal for Matthew Knies?
Knies only played 1 full season in the NHL last year, on the Toronto Maple Leafs, and with the exit of Tyler Bertuzzi has taken advantage of the absence on the first, line, with William Nylander, and Auston Matthews.
His production last season was anything but expected for a rookie who is still figuring out the league. He scored only 35 points( 15 G, 20 A), which isn't terrible for someone who has just started his sophomore season.
But will he fetch a contract as close to Alexis Lafreniere's AAV?
Honestly, the Rangers played a wait-and-see approach with Lafreniere, and due to their cap space being tight, have had to work with the winger and watch his development.
It took him 4 seasons to develop into the kind of player they needed him to.
But the Maple Leafs could take a risk and lock Knies in long-term just as long as they ensure they are able to develop him as they should.
However, Kypreos mentioned that if the Leafs were to lockdown Knies long-term the deal would look similar to Alexis Lafreniere's recent contract with the New York Rangers.
*Lafreniere has enjoyed multiple 30-point seasons in the NHL. But the point is made, the Leafs may overpay for someone like Knies who won't develop properly in the NHL. Which would be unfortunate,
| POLL | ||
OCTOBRE 28 | 148 ANSWERS How Rangers Alexis Lafreniere's contract could affect the Maple Leafs Matthew Knies Do you think Matthew Knies will fetch a similar deal to Alexis Lafreniere or Juraj Slafkovsky? | ||
| Matthew Knies | 79 | 53.4 % |
| Juraj Slafkovsky | 69 | 46.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
