Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Ben Danford has continued to solidify his reputation as a reliable defensive force during the 2024-2025 OHL season with the Oshawa Generals. As the team’s captain, Danford has embraced his leadership role, guiding a young but talented roster through a competitive campaign. While his offensive numbers may not leap off the page, his defensive contributions and intangibles have made him a key figure for the Generals this season.
Danford's regular season stats reflect his role as a reliable stay-at-home defenseman who prioritizes shutting down opponents over flashy offense. In 67 games, he recorded five goals and 20 assists for 25 points, with a plus-5 rating. He also accrued 68 penalty minutes, showcasing his physical edge and willingness to engage in battles along the boards and in front of the net.
While not an offensive juggernaut, Danford's ability to make smart plays in his own end consistently is very valuable tool to have. His defensive prowess was recognized league-wide, as he topped the OHL Eastern Conference Coaches Poll in two categories: Best Shot Blocker and Best Defensive Defenseman. These accolades underscore his ability to anchor Oshawa’s blue line and neutralize opposing top lines.
The Oshawa Generals started the 2025 OHL playoffs by defeating the Brampton Steelheads in six games during a hard-fought first-round series. Ben Danford was a difference maker in the series victory, showcasing his leadership and defensive prowess throughout.
Danford anchored the blue line with disciplined play and timely contributions as well as logging a goal on the power play . His ability to stabilize the team during high-pressure moments and rally his teammates proved invaluable, particularly in Game 6, where Oshawa secured a decisive 4-1 victory to advance. Danford and the Generals lost the first game of Round 2 of the OHL playoffs to the Branford Bulldogs and continue with Game 2 of the series set to take place April 12th.
Role with the Maple Leafs
Looking ahead, Danford's future with the Toronto Maple Leafs looks promising but measured. The Leafs drafted him 31st overall in 2024 with hopes that he could bolster their defensive depth. Danfords skill set aligns with what Toronto needs—a dependable, defensively sound blueliner who can play tough minutes against top competition. However, he is unlikely to make an immediate jump to the NHL next season. Instead, he will likely spend another year developing either in Oshawa or potentially in the AHL with the Toronto Marlies.
Danford’s ceiling projects him as a middle-pairing NHL defenseman who can excel in penalty-killing situations and provide stability on the back end. While he may never be an offensive dynamo, his strengths lie in his hockey IQ, positioning, and leadership qualities—all traits that NHL teams covet in reliable defenders.
Given his age of 19 and ongoing development curve, it is expected that Danford will return to Oshawa for an overage season or transition to professional hockey with the Marlies when he is of age. The decision will depend on how much further refinement Toronto believes he requires before competing at higher levels. Regardless of where he plays next year, Danford remains an important part of Toronto’s long-term plans.
Ben Danford is not just a good prospect—he is an important piece of the Toronto Maple Leafs’ future defensive core. His leadership at a young age and ability to excel in critical defensive roles make him an asset worth investing in.
Danford may not be an offensive defenseman like fellow 2024 first round draft pick Zayne Parekh, yet he is extremely valuable in his own way. While he may not be NHL-ready yet, patience will be key as Danford continues to grow into a dependable NHL defenseman capable of making significant contributions for years to come.