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Toronto Maple Leafs: 3 Call-Ups Who Can Make An Impact in the Playoffs

By Stephen Nixon

TORONTO, CANADA - JANUARY 25: Braden Schneider #4 of the New York Rangers battles against Bobby McMann #74 of the Toronto Maple Leafs during an NHL game at Scotiabank Arena on January 25, 2023 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Claus Andersen/Getty Images)
TORONTO, CANADA - JANUARY 25: Braden Schneider #4 of the New York Rangers battles against Bobby McMann #74 of the Toronto Maple Leafs during an NHL game at Scotiabank Arena on January 25, 2023 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Claus Andersen/Getty Images) /
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Toronto Maple Leafs
WORCESTER, MA – MARCH 25: Matthew Knies #89 of the Minnesota Golden Gophers skates against the  (Photo by Richard T Gagnon/Getty Images) /

No. 2: Matthew Knies

Similar to McMann, Knies could be a fantastic fit in the Leafs top-six. Although McMann is also deserving of a call-up, I’d say his chances are slim of actually playing in the playoffs, compared to Knies.

Toronto has had some hyped prospects over the years.

From Nick Robertson, Rasmus Sandin and Timothy Liljegren, Knies can now be added to that list. With 40 points in 35 games, the second-year student at the University of Minnesota is having a tremendous season.

The Hobey Baker finalist is one of the NCAA’s best players and could lead his team to a national championship in the next few weeks.

However, based on the NCAA’s schedule, even if his team plays until the very end, he’ll be able to join the Leafs for Game 1 of the playoffs, if both parties think he’s ready.

At 6-foot-3, 210 pounds, his size and skill make him such an anticipated prospect. Unlike Robertson, Knies shouldn’t be scared of the physicality at the NHL level and the team shouldn’t be concerned about him getting hurt.

If Knies can perform at an admirable level for the Toronto Maple Leafs, he could be the difference-maker in the team finally advancing in the playoffs for the first time in two decades.

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