Matthew Knies trade market is heating up fast again!

The Matthew Knies trade saga has been one of the most talked-about storylines of the NHL offseason, and rather than fading away, it appears to be gaining momentum with each passing week. Multiple teams have already been scared off by the steep asking price set by Toronto Maple Leafs general manager John Chayka. But the list of suitors keeps growing.

According to Nick Kypreos, at least five teams are actively exploring a deal for the 23-year-old power forward. The Chicago Blackhawks, Montreal Canadiens, Buffalo Sabres, Dallas Stars, and Columbus Blue Jackets have all reportedly shown interest. Kypreos noted that the trade buzz surrounding Knies shows no signs of slowing down.

One critical detail working in Toronto's favor: Knies has no trade protection whatsoever in his contract, giving the Leafs complete freedom to negotiate with any team in the league.

Montreal's re-emergence in the conversation is particularly noteworthy. After watching several of their primary targets slip away, including Nico Hischier, Vincent Trocheck, and Kirill Marchenko, GM Kent Hughes and his front office have reportedly circled back to discussions with Toronto. The Canadiens had seemingly moved on, but the shrinking market appears to have pushed them back to the table.

The price tag, however, remains a significant hurdle. The Blackhawks learned that firsthand earlier this summer. According to Scott Powers of The Athletic, Toronto demanded nothing less than the fourth overall pick in the 2026 draft plus one of Chicago's top offensive prospects, either Frank Nazar or Anton Frondell. GM Kyle Davidson ultimately walked away from those terms, opting instead to acquire defenseman Bowen Byram from the Sabres. Davidson reportedly described the Leafs' demands as insurmountable obstacles, emphasizing the importance of knowing when to act and when to exercise patience. That assessment paints a vivid picture of what any team, Montreal included, would need to surrender to pry Knies loose.

For the Canadiens, the question becomes whether Hughes is willing to part with premium assets from an organization still building toward long-term contention. Knies fits the profile Montreal would covet, a young, physically imposing winger with legitimate offensive upside. But paying a king's ransom for him could undermine the broader rebuild.

With Dallas and Columbus now entering the fray, the bidding war could intensify further. Toronto holds the leverage, and Chayka appears content to wait for a team willing to meet his price.