5 Long-Shot NHL Prospects that the Toronto Maple Leafs Should Acquire

Kody Clark

Born: October 13, 1999
Height: 6’1″
Position: Right Wing
Birthplace: Chicago, IL, USA
Shoots: Right
Draft: 2018 WSH, 2nd Round, 16th pick (47th Overall)

Kody Clark is the highest-drafted player on our list. His road to the NHL may be difficult because his numbers at Major Junior have not been overly impressive. He has, however, shown steady improvement through his three years in the OHL with the Ottawa 67’s.

Clark has made our list to be acquired by the Maple Leafs because of his lineage. His father is a legend in Toronto and was the first Leaf ever selected first overall in the NHL Entry Draft.

In 1985, Kody’s father, Wendel Clark, did not have to wait long to hear his name. He helped take the franchise to the playoffs the very next year and eventually was named team captain.

Kody is a far different player than his old man. Instead of dropping the mitts, he is outracing his opponents to pucks and ensuring he’s the first forward back to help his defensemen. Clark prides himself on his two-way game and has even modeled his style of play after former Maple Leaf, Connor Brown.

Clark has already signed his entry-level deal with the Washington Capitals and was assigned back to his junior club. The Capitals will surely be hoping to see better production from Clark if he ever makes the leap all the way up the hockey ranks.

The Toronto Maple Leafs should be interested in Clark because he is a legacy. Wendel’s number has been retired but it would be spectacular for young fans to see a Clark in Toronto skating around in number 17. Nepotism is obviously not the best way to scout, but in Clark’s case, he also has the tools to be a useful player for his team.