Full Breakdown
Matthew Knies Reflects on His Time with the Minnesota Gophers
10/9/2025, 4:38:19 PM
Matthew Knies' Gophers Experience
Matthew Knies, a former standout winger for the Minnesota Golden Gophers, recently shared his reflections on his collegiate hockey experience, emphasizing how it closely mirrored the intensity of the NHL. Knies played for the Gophers from 2021 to 2023, contributing significantly to the team's success, including back-to-back appearances in the Frozen Four. In a recent interview on the Spittin' Chiclets podcast, he remarked, "Practicing against those guys and with those guys, it was the closest thing you could get to the NHL." This sentiment underscores the high level of competition and camaraderie within the Gophers' roster, which included future NHL talents like Logan Cooley and Brock Faber.
During his tenure, Knies amassed impressive statistics, totaling 33 points in his freshman year and 42 points in his sophomore year. The Gophers dominated the Big Ten during the 2022-23 season, finishing with a 19-4-1 record. However, their season ended in disappointment, losing both the Big Ten Tournament championship to Michigan and the national championship to Quinnipiac.
Transition to the NHL
Following the national championship loss, Knies signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs, who had drafted him 57th overall in the 2021 NHL Draft. He made his NHL debut at the end of the 2022-23 season and has since become a key player for the Maple Leafs, recording 94 points over two full seasons. In June 2025, he secured a six-year, $46.5 million contract, reflecting his growing importance to the team.
Knies' decision to join the Gophers over Arizona State was influenced by the program's strong coaching staff and the potential for a competitive team. He noted, "I just thought these schools had a lot to offer right away. Unreal campuses, unreal experiences." This choice has proven beneficial, as his collegiate experience has prepared him for the rigors of professional hockey.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the successes of the Gophers' program, there has been criticism regarding the coaching staff's recruiting capabilities, particularly in the past year. However, the recent commitments from several high school players, including Freddie Schneider, indicate a positive shift in the program's recruiting efforts.
What's Next for the Gophers
As the Gophers continue to build their roster, they are poised to attract more talent, with Schneider among the top prospects considering Minnesota. His commitment could further enhance the Gophers' competitive edge in the NCAA.
Knies' journey from the Gophers to the NHL exemplifies the potential pathways available for talented players in collegiate hockey, highlighting the importance of strong programs in developing future stars.
