His performance wasn’t a display of dominance that completely changes the book on the rookie — or the trajectory of the the Maple Leafs — but considering the winger had just three games of professional experience before his playoff debut, it was an impressive night at the office.
While Knies was held off the score sheet, he did an excellent job helping his line drive play.
The winger tied for the team lead in hits (5) and consistently won puck battles on the forecheck. That helped the Maple Leafs remain parked in the offensive zone and created opportunities for his teammates — like these two chances for
The only blemishes on his night were a couple of minor penalties, but one came on a power play with the game way out of hand and the other one was an iffy hooking call.
