As we enter the Four Nations Break, the Toronto Maple Leafs prospects across the world are having their regular seasons nearing the end and we thought it was a good time to give some updates before the playoffs begin.
Heading into the 2024 NHL Entry Draft the Toronto Maple Leafs were limited with their draft selections after moving most of their picks at the previous two trade deadlines.
Similar to the Kyle Dubas years, Brad Treliving traded down throughout the draft to add more bullets to their chamber and the first move was trading pick #23 for selections #31 and #58.
The Maple Leafs system isn't very good, but this is a result of having the longest streak of consecutive playoff appearances in the league. For what they've had to work with, it's not that bad.
Toronto Maple Leafs 2024 Draft Class Update
Ben Danford - 1st Round, 31st Overall
The Maple Leafs scouting group went a bit off the board to select stay at home defenseman Ben Danford who Bob McKenzie had at pick #54.
Shortly after the draft, Danford signed his entry level contract with the Maple Leafs, which was followed shortly after by being named captain of the Oshawa Generals for the current season. Danford has currently led the Generals into three-way tie for first place in the East Divisoin, just two points behind the Barrie Colts for the top spot in the Conference.
While he is not known for his offesnsive prowess, the 6'2" right handed defenseman has already tied his personal best with four goals which includes a pair of game winning goals this year.