The Columbus Blue Jackets swung a blockbuster trade before the beginning of the 2026-27 NHL season. Columbus traded Kirill Marchenko to the Toronto Maple Leafs on Monday in a deal that landed forward Matthew Knies. Knies has already spoken about the trade, but his immediate reaction to the deal was quite interesting.

Knies spoke with general manager Don Waddell over the phone after the trade was complete. The former Maple Leafs star told Waddell that the timing of the trade was a surprise. The fact that he was traded, though, is another matter entirely.

“Not entirely surprised. I feel like it’s kinda been hanging over my head for a little bit here… one day before opening day, I was pretty shocked,” the new Blue Jackets star said in a clip shared by the team on social media.

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Knies comes to the Blue Jackets after an impressive season in Toronto. He was one of the team's youngest players last year. But he was also one of their most productive. He scored 23 goals and 66 points in 79 games last season. Only William Nylander and John Tavares had more points for Toronto in 2026-27.

Knies has struggled with injuries and played through one last season. He only missed a handful of games, but the injuries did affect his play on the ice. Still, he has a ton of potential and could be a big-time addition to this Blue Jackets team.

The new Blue Jackets star won't need to wait too long to make his debut, either. Columbus opens its 2026-27 season on Thursday against the Buffalo Sabres.