The Toronto Maple Leafs locked in 22-year-old forward Matthew Knies with a six-year contract worth $46.5 million on Sunday. This agreement prevents Knies from reaching restricted free-agent status on July 1, ensuring the promising winger remains a key part of the team’s future. With an average annual value (AAV) of $7.75 million, Knies now ranks as the third-highest-paid player on the Maple Leafs, trailing only captain Auston Matthews and William Nylander.
Reviewing the Highest-Earning Players on the Maple Leafs
A detailed look at Toronto’s roster reveals the top five earners as they head into the 2025-26 NHL season, with salaries reflecting their importance to the team’s success.
Jake McCabe Anchors Defense at Fifth Spot
Jake McCabe, 31, is positioned fifth on the Maple Leafs’ salary chart after recently signing a five-year extension. His contract carries a $4.51 million AAV, effective through 2030. Known primarily as a physical, defensive defenseman, McCabe excels in shutdown roles and formed a strong pairing with Chris Tanev last season. While not an offensive contributor, his defensive reliability provides essential support for the team.
Morgan Rielly’s Long-Term Role and Earnings
Morgan Rielly, the Maple Leafs’ lead defenseman, is in the fourth year of an eight-year, $60 million contract signed in 2022. His $7.5 million cap hit extends through 2030, with Rielly expected to remain a cornerstone of the team until he reaches 36 years old. In the most recent season, he played all 82 games, tallying seven goals and 34 assists for 41 points overall.
Matthew Knies’ Breakout Season and Future with the Leafs
Knies earned his lucrative extension following a breakout year, posting career-high totals with 29 goals and 58 points. Standing 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighing 227 pounds, Knies made his postseason debut alongside Auston Matthews on Toronto’s top line. The pairing is anticipated to continue generating significant offense in the upcoming season, bolstering the team’s scoring depth.
William Nylander Emerges as Second-Highest Paid Forward
William Nylander, currently in the second year of his eight-year, $11.5 million AAV contract signed in 2024, ranks just behind Matthews in salary. Nylander rewarded the team’s confidence by scoring 45 goals last season, finishing second in the league for goal totals. This marked Nylander’s third consecutive season of at least 40 goals, and his fourth straight with more than 80 points, underscoring his consistency and offensive prowess.
Auston Matthews Holds Top Salary Amid Contract Extension
Auston Matthews ranks as the highest-paid player on the Maple Leafs following Knies’ contract, and will be the NHL’s second-highest-paid player when Leon Draisaitl’s new contract begins next season. Matthews is in the second year of a four-year deal signed in the summer of 2024, valued at $53 million with a $13.25 million cap hit. Despite missing games due to injury, Matthews managed to score 33 goals and earn 78 points across 67 games during the last season. Over his NHL career, he has recorded six 40-goal seasons and reached the 100-point mark twice.
Impact of Salaries on Team Dynamics and Future Outlook
These contracts reflect Toronto’s commitment to maintaining a strong core of talent, blending emerging players like Knies with established stars such as Matthews and Nylander. The financial investments highlight the Leafs’ focus on competitiveness and sustained success in the league. As players enter new seasons under these deals, expectations for performance remain high, setting the stage for Toronto to contend deeply in upcoming NHL campaigns.