The 2026 NHL draft is in the rearview mirror, and the Toronto Maple Leafs have made some intriguing moves to bolster their future. With a single first-round pick and additional late-round selections through trades, the Leafs have added 15 new players under 25 to their system. Let's take a closer look at these prospects and their potential impact.
Trade Acquisition: Emil Andrae
The only player acquired directly via trade is Emil Andrae, an unsigned RFA. His rights were obtained in a deal that sent Joe Woll to the Flyers. The Leafs then signed Andrae to a two-year deal at $1.55 million. At 24, Andrae has already played 100 NHL games, a testament to his potential. As a puck-moving defender, his primary value lies in transition, and he neither hits much nor gets many points. This role is a challenge for evaluation, especially with the influx of drafted defenders excelling in junior hockey.
Free Agent Signings: Prospecting for Hidden Gems
The Leafs signed several free agent NCAA or CHL graduates, typically playing in the minor leagues but occasionally reaching the NHL. These signings are all about prospecting for hidden gems.
- Brandon Buhr (24): A right-shooting winger with a few Marlies games under his belt, he will likely be the oldest player on the list next year.
- Vinny Borgesi (22): A right-shooting defender who made his Marlies debut last spring.
- Landon Sim (22): An endearing, high-energy forward who split time between the ECHL and the Marlies last year, now on an ELC with the Leafs.
- Hayes Hundley (21): A right-shooting defender who will factor in the minors this year.
Drafted Prospects: A Diverse Group
The Leafs drafted a diverse group of players, ranging from seasoned defenders to energetic forwards and promising goalies.
- Ethan MacKenzie (20): A solid two-way defender who has committed to the University of North Dakota after four years in the OHL. He is AHL-eligible if he decides to turn pro now.
- ** Yaroslav Fedoseyev (19)**: A right-shooting defender who played junior hockey and men's league. He aims to crack his club's KHL team this year.
- Gavin McKenna (19): His training camp will determine his NHL lineup spot. He has a December birthday.
- Patriks Plumins (18): A promising U18 goalie from Latvia, who played in the men's league last year but may not play in the QMJHL.
- Cooper Williams (19): A center who has committed to the University of North Dakota after two years in the WHL.
- Zac Olsen (19): An energy forward who will attend Colorado College next year, previously a teammate of Williams in the WHL.
- Juuso Ainasto (18): A goalie on Team Finland's radar for the WJC, he plays for Jokerit and will aim for full-time U20 team play.
- Brody Pepoy (18): An energy forward striving to become more than a bottom-six player, returning to Saginaw this season.
- Måns Gudmundsson (19): A right-shooting defender who will return to his U20 team in Sweden, hoping for a look in the SHL.
The full eligibility list provides a comprehensive view of the entire prospect pool. The Leafs' draft strategy and free-agent signings have added depth and potential to their system, with a mix of established players and promising young talent.
