TORONTO | Matthew Knies, who was a finalist for the Hobey Baker Trophy this year, was a hidden card in Sheldon Keefe’s game. But the Maple Leafs head coach will put them on view for Game 2 of the series against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
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Knies, a 6-foot-2, 210-pound winger, participated in Leafs practice on the left flank of the third unit with Ryan O’Reilly and Noel Acciari.
“It would be great if I could play,” said the 20-year-old American. I would realize a childhood dream by participating in a meeting series. I want to contribute in my own way if I get this chance. »
Dominant
Knies, a 2021 Leafs second-round pick, dominated in his second season with the Minnesota Gophers.
He had 42 points (21 goals, 21 assists) in 40 games. The Gophers lost 3-2 to the Quinnipiac University Bobcats in the Frozen Four finals.
Knies signed his first professional contract on April 9th.
He appeared in three meetings with the Maple Leafs at the end of the season and received one assist.
Hedman: a likely case
In the Lightning camp, four were missing in training.
Victor Hedman, Erik Cernak and Michael Eyssimont, all three injured in the first game, were off the ice at Scotiabank Arena.
Defender Ian Cole was also given a day off.
Jon Cooper didn’t play hide and seek with Cernak and Eyssimont and said they won’t play in the next game.
Both players likely suffered concussions.
“We won’t decide for Heddy until shortly before the game,” remarked the Lightning head coach.
In attack, Tanner Jeannot will likely be back and take Eyssimont’s place.
“I’m feeling great, but I have to wait,” said the former Nashville Predators winger. I’m fortunate to work with good fitness trainers and I’ve worked hard to come back quickly. »