Exciting Announcement Drops Regarding Top Maple Leafs Prospect Ben Danford…..more details
Toronto Maple Leafs fans have reason to be excited about the team’s latest defensive prospect, Ben Danford. Selected 31st overall in the 2024 NHL Draft, Danford hails from Madoc, Ontario, and has been a lifelong Maple Leafs supporter.
Standing 6-foot-1 and weighing 190 pounds, Danford is recognized for his strong two-way play, combining defensive reliability with emerging offensive skills. In the 2023-24 season with the Oshawa Generals of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), he notched one goal and 32 assists over 64 games. His performance in the playoffs was particularly noteworthy, contributing four goals and six assists in 21 games, aiding Oshawa’s run to the championship series.
The Maple Leafs’ decision to trade down from the 23rd to the 31st pick during the draft was strategic, allowing them to select Danford while acquiring additional assets. General Manager Brad Treliving expressed enthusiasm about Danford’s high hockey intelligence, competitiveness, and physical play, highlighting the rarity of right-shot defensemen with such attributes. citeturn0search0
Danford’s development continues under the mentorship of former Maple Leafs defenseman Jake Muzzin. At the team’s development camp, Danford expressed admiration for Muzzin’s career and is eager to model his game after him.
Recently, Danford signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Maple Leafs, solidifying his commitment to the team. He is expected to return to the OHL for the upcoming season, with fans anticipating his continued growth and potential future contributions to Toronto’s blue line.
