The Toronto Maple Leafs boast some of the NHL‘s most devoted celebrity fans, including Jim Carrey, Drake, and Shawn Mendes. Among them, pop star Justin Bieber stands out as perhaps the most enthusiastic supporter. Born just 100 miles from Toronto in Stratford, Ontario, Bieber’s passion for the Leafs is well known, and he maintains a friendship with team captain Auston Matthews.
Despite Bieber’s regular presence at games, young Leafs forward Matthew Knies revealed on the Morning Cuppa Hockey podcast by Daily Faceoff that he completely missed Bieber sitting directly behind the bench during a recent game. Knies expressed his surprise at not noticing the star fan during the intense matchup.
“I am actually so bummed I didn’t recognize it at all. I didn’t notice it. I was, no way, I want to say I was that invested in the game, but I don’t know. Phil and my buddies told me, they asked me like, ‘Did you see him?'” —Matthew Knies, Leafs Forward
“And I was like, ‘I have no idea what you’re talking about.’ And then I kind of looked on social media and there’s a picture of me in the front of the bench and him right behind. And I was like, ‘That’s a huge bummer.'” —Matthew Knies, Leafs Forward
“But, I think it’s a good thing that I didn’t notice him. Obviously, it’d take my attention off the game, but then also I think I’d be wanting to wave or say hi or something. So, but I don’t know. No, I didn’t, I didn’t see it at all, which is a big bummer,” —Matthew Knies, Leafs Forward
The game in question was likely Game 7 of the second round of the NHL playoffs between Toronto and the Florida Panthers. The Leafs suffered a disappointing 6-1 loss, marking another season where they failed to advance to the Conference Finals despite high expectations.
Matthew Knies Reflects on Mitch Marner’s Move to Vegas
In a significant offseason development, the Maple Leafs traded star winger Mitch Marner’s rights in a sign-and-trade deal to the Vegas Golden Knights in exchange for Nicolas Roy. This marked the end of Marner’s time in Toronto just as he approached free agency.
Knies shared his thoughts on Marner’s departure during the same podcast, recognizing the positive influence Marner has had on him personally and professionally.
“I don’t know if it’s going to be a rivalry. I love the guy. He did a lot for me in his two years here, and he made me so comfortable, made me a better player, a better person. So, I don’t think it’s a rivalry. Obviously I want to beat him, but I think it’s just business as usual.” —Matthew Knies, Leafs Forward
“I think maybe off the ice it’ll be nice to just chat with him and get to say hi. I haven’t seen him in quite a bit with the summer now. So, and obviously that we’re not going to be on the same team during the year. So, just getting to chat with him for a little bit would be cool.” —Matthew Knies, Leafs Forward
The Leafs have expressed strong confidence in Knies by signing him to a six-year, $46.5 million contract, positioning him as a key player alongside Auston Matthews and William Nylander. To address the gap left by Marner, Toronto also acquired players such as Mattias Macelli and Dakota Joshua, aiming to maintain offensive depth and balance.
Celebrity Culture and Team Dynamics in Toronto
Toronto’s combination of high-profile celebrity fans and a young core of talented players has created a unique atmosphere around the Maple Leafs. Justin Bieber’s visible support underscores the cultural connection between the city and its hockey team. Meanwhile, players like Matthew Knies focus on their performance and developing team chemistry amidst roster changes and playoff challenges.
The recent playoff elimination and leadership transitions signal a critical phase for the Maple Leafs as they seek to turn potential into deeper postseason success. Attention to player development and adjustment to new team dynamics will be essential going forward, with Knies expected to play a significant role in the club’s next chapter.