Toronto Maple Leafs forward Matthew Knies has taken his game to new heights in the 2025 postseason, and his teammates have certainly taken notice.

The 22-year-old has amassed four points through the first three games of the series, including a two-point outing in Game 3. He opened the scoring 23 seconds in while also recording an assist on the tying marker from Morgan Rielly that forced overtime.

Head coach Craig Berube told reporters during an off day on Saturday that Knies has stayed true to his game while also raising his level to what is required at this time of year.

“I don’t think it’s no different than the whole season, in my opinion,” he said. “He’s still playing his game. He scored another goal right around the net. You know he uses his speed, physical. Does your game have to elevate in the playoffs? Yes, it does. I think he’s done that.”

The results have backed up his strong play to this point as he currently sits tied with John Tavares for second on the Leafs in playoff goals behind only William Nylander. Knies is also in a four-way tie for fourth on the team in scoring throughout the playoffs so far.

It’s not a bad position to be in for a player who is due for a new contract in the offseason as an RFA, especially given that it is only his third playoff appearance of his career to this point. His teammates are taking notice of the fact that he seems to keep getting better with each passing game.

“He’s been unreal. I mean, he’s been unreal all year, but I think he understands the situation being able to elevate his game in key moments,” forward Max Pacioretty said. “He goes beast mode at times, and it just looks like no one can take the puck from him. I’ve definitely been very, very impressed with his ability to elevate his game in key situations.”

If these playoffs have proven anything, it’s that Knies is going to play a key role in the success of the Leafs moving forward and he is proving himself to be a playoff performer. It has even gotten to the point that some argue that there is now a Core Five on the Leafs with Knies being in that group given how integral he has become in such a short amount of time.

As for the man himself, he credits his coach’s calming presence for getting him and the team prepared for each game while remaining committed to getting better.

“I think he’s done a great job,” Knies said of Berube. “I think our mindset’s been great going into each game. Obviously, in this series, we’ve scored early. He’s been a big part of that. I think he’s definitely moulded a good mindset in us and created a winning culture.”