Knies Cleared to Play Game 7 vs. Panthers

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Matthew Knies has been cleared to play in Game 7 against the Florida Panthers after recovering from an injury sustained in Game 6. Head coach Craig Berube confirmed Knies will return to his regular role on the top line alongside Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner. Knies has contributed five goals and two assists in 12 playoff games, and his presence is expected to be a key factor against Florida’s defense and goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky. The Maple Leafs are seeking to break a six-game Game 7 losing streak since 2004, while the Panthers aim to defend their championship. The winner will advance to face the Carolina Hurricanes in the Eastern Conference Final, with Toronto aiming for its first such appearance since 2002. The Leafs will keep the same lineup from Game 6, signaling stability ahead of the crucial matchup.