As the Toronto Maple Leafs approached the 57th pick in the 2021 NHL Draft, GM Kyle Dubas believed he had a solid trade in the works, aiming to move one pick for multiple selections.

Just when the deal seemed almost done, chief scout Wes Clark voiced his concerns fiercely enough to turn the tide. Instead of trading, he insisted, "Pick Matthew Knies and move on." Dubas, recognizing Clark's determined expression, decided to trust his scout's instincts.

They ultimately selected Knies and passed on the trade, a decision that would prove monumental. Fast forward, and Knies has emerged as a game-changer for the Leafs, playing alongside stars Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner. He ranks as one of the leading scorers from his draft class, showcasing his power-forward potential.

This crucial moment could have altered the franchise's trajectory substantially if they hadn’t picked Knies.

Now, with Dubas leading the struggling Pittsburgh Penguins and Clark as their director of player personnel, one can’t help but wonder how different things would be if not for that pivotal decision.

What Ifs in the NHL World?

Knies’ success stands in stark contrast to the ongoing decisions around the league. While some teams struggle to find their footing, the narrative surrounding individuals like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Conn McDavid paints a complex picture of performance versus contracts. Guerrero’s $500 million deal with the Blue Jays has raised eyebrows, especially as he navigates a competitive salary landscape.

On the ice, Connor McDavid is poised for a playoff explosion with his recent performance. Yet, despite his past accolades, this season poses new challenges, leaving him potentially outside the top five MVP rankings. Meanwhile, debates swirl about the MVP candidacy of goaltender Connor Hellebuyck and the defining moments for teams like the Dallas Stars without their star defenseman Miro Heiskanen.

The State of the NHL

Around the league, coaching changes are bubbling with speculation, especially for teams like the New York Rangers and Buffalo Sabres, as they reconsider their leadership moving into the next season. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly waiting to see how the playoff picture unfolds as franchises strategize.

In the midst of all this, life in the hockey world continues with nostalgic calls from friends, wondering about the legacy of greats like Alexander Ovechkin, and pondering the future of the sport with respect to its young talents.