Ben Danford
Ben Danford is the Maple Leafs newest first-round pick, chosen 31st overall in the 2024 NHL draft. He is from Madoc, Ontario, which is about two and a half hours east of Toronto, and he grew up as a fan of the Leafs.
Danford registered one goal and 32 assists for 33 points in 64 games last season with the Oshawa Generals of the OHL.
He also recorded four goals and six assists for ten points in 21 playoff games. The 18-year-old, right-shooting defenseman is entering his third season with the Generals, and this season he will have the added responsibility of being team captain. That speaks volumes about his leadership skills, which will benefit him once he turns pro.
There are many things to like about Danford's game. He is a defensive defenseman who moves the puck well. His ability to break up plays and make a good first pass up ice is what helped him register 32 assists last season. He plays well physically but will need to bulk up to have the same impact at the AHL and NHL levels.
Danford plays a complete 200-foot game, is a really good skater, rarely makes mistakes, likes to be physical, and defends well in his own end. He doesn't have any noticeable flaws that would be cause for concern.
It will be interesting to see how he plays this season with the pressure of being captain. He currently has two assists in eight games.