Craig Button shockingly compares Matthew Knies-Leafs situation to Matthew Tkachuk’s failed Flames contract

Craig Button shared his thoughts on Matthew Knies’ contract situation with the Toronto Maple Leafs. The forward's entry-level contract ended, and he is a restricted free agent heading into free agency on July 1. Knies is awaiting a contract extension from the team.

On Friday, Button compared it the situation Toronto general manager Brad Treliving faced in Calgary with Matthew Tkachuk in 2019.

"Matthew Tkachuk came out of his entry-level contract and only signed his next contract, I believe, the night or two before the regular season started," Button said (02:15), via "Leafs Morning Take." "He was holding out, and it ended up being a three-year contract."

Tkachuk wanted a long-term deal but only got a three-year contract. That decision backfired, as the Flames eventually lost him in 2022.

"Now, my understanding is all Tkachuk was asking for was the (Leon) Draisaitl contract," Button said. "But Brad went short term, and he ended up losing Matthew Tkachuk.

" ... I mean, quite frankly, Brad Treliving pissed off Matthew Tkachuk... And then Matthew said, “I’m out of here. Get me out of here, because I’m not going to re-sign."

Button believes Treliving should avoid a similar mistake with Knies.

"So, I think with Matthew Knies — that type of player — we use all kinds of descriptors: unicorn, unique, what he brings to the table," Button said. "I think, if anything, the Matthew Tkachuk situation should be a guideline for Brad in having to sign him for eight years."

Knies had a strong 2024-25 season, recording 29 goals and 29 assists in 78 games. His shooting percentage improved to 19.1%, and he had a hat trick in January.

In the playoffs, Knies scored five goals in 13 games, although he struggled defensively. However, he showed value as part of the Leafs’ top group.

Matthew Knies is a key focus in the Maple Leafs' offseason plans

On May 29, Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving said there would be changes to the team this summer. Treliving mentioned that the team needs to handle crucial playoff moments better. He wants to help its players, and find others who can perform in tough moments.

Treliving added that reaching an extension with Matthew Knies is a priority.

“I’d like to get it done as soon as possible,” Treliving said, via Athlon Sports. “Usually, (in contract negotiation) term and money are the only two issues that come into play.

"I thought Matthew had a tremendous year. Seeing him evolve., tt’s a big step for a young player to become really important. He became a really important player."

However, Treliving has not fully committed to keeping Mitch Marner and John Tavares. He also wants more offense from the defense.