The Toronto Maple Leafs will be looking at the organization’s future at training camp this fall. As much as that statement sounds hyperbolic, the fact is that the club will need to figure out if the prospects in the pipeline will eventually become the sort of guys who can become meaningful NHLers at some point down the line.
For three prospects in particular, the pressure is on to prove they’re really on track to become full-time NHL contributors at one point or another.
So, let’s take a closer look at three Maple Leafs prospects entering make-or-break seasons in 2026-27.
Ben Danford, D
There is so much justifiable hype surrounding Ben Danford. The 20-year-old was the Maple Leafs’ first-round pick in 2024. Interestingly, the Leafs traded down from 23 to 31, knowing that Danford would be available towards the end of the first round.
The idea was to land a right-shot D with good size who might eventually become a fixture on the team’s blue line.
Now, make no mistake. Danford is not earmarked to become the next Cale Makar. But the Maple Leafs saw plenty of potential in him to become a solid right-shot D. And considering that the organization doesn’t have many of those, it’s time for Danford to prove he belongs in the NHL.
This situation is even more intriguing when considering that the injury to Chris Tanev could open the door for Danford to earn an early look at the NHL.
If he impresses enough, and it seems like he’s well on his way there, Danford might just start the season in the NHL, provided there’s a lineup spot for him.
Marlie coach Steve Sullivan on Ben Danford pushing at Leaf main camp: "I don’t think it’s his age (20), but he’s gotten those deep (AHL) reps he needed against really big guys. He doesn’t need much, it’s whether there’s room and can he be better than the sixth (D) on the Leafs.”
— Lance Hornby 🇺🇦🇨🇦 (@sunhornby) September 11, 2026
If he can’t prove he’s the guy, there may be serious questions about the Maple Leafs defensive pipeline. We might even see guys like Noah Chadwick and Hayes Hundley pass Danford on the depth chart.
In short, it’s a crucial season for Danford. He needs to prove he’s ready to be a part of the Leafs’ future core.
Jacob Quillan, F
We got a chance to see Quillan in the NHL towards the end of last season. This was an extended audition after the Maple Leafs pretty much committed to tanking the season.
The 24-year-old saw action in 23 games last season, scoring a goal and three points. He played under 10 minutes a night in a predominantly fourth-line role.
That was a bit unfair, as Quillan has a much higher upside than just being a fourth-line grinder. However, his options to make the team are a bit slim. The team’s offseason addition will make it challenging for Quillan to break into the lineup.
But a strong camp and some subpar performances from incumbents may lead to a call-up. That’s going to be crucial as Quillan is on a one-year deal. If he can’t at least prove he can play some sort of role in the NHL, the Leafs may pass on him.
I will issue one word of caution. The Maple Leafs had better be very careful with Quillan. Letting him go for nothing could turn out to be another Alex Steeves situation.
Luke Haymes, F
Luke Haymes has to be one of the most intriguing prospects in the entire Maple Leafs system. He joined the organization last year as a college free agent. And in 66 games with the Marlies, he scored 17 goals and 33 points.
That’s a fantastic showing for a first-year pro. He appeared in four NHL games, registering just one assist.
The minuscule sample size should not fool anyone. Haymes has the sort of untapped upside that could make him a reliable middle-six NHL forward.
It’s just a matter of getting a chance to prove it.
That’s precisely where things could get dicey for Haymes. There really isn’t a spot for him in the lineup, at least not now.
But you have to think he’ll also be among the first call-ups, should injuries strike. Since he’s waivers-exempt, he could very well get a good look and head back down if there isn’t a permanent spot for him now.
It’s worth noting that he’s entering the second year of a two-year deal. As such, Haymes will have to prove he belongs. Otherwise, he may not get another realistic shot at the NHL, at least not with the Leafs.
That would be a shame, as he figures to be a truly promising prospect.
Add us as a preferred source on Google