Toronto Maple Leafs' Ben Danford Is Anchor of Team's Future Defense – Hockey Writers – Toronto Maple Leafs

Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Ben Danford has drawn attention since being drafted 31st overall in the 2024 NHL Draft. A defenseman with a strong two-way game, Danford has shown steady improvement during his time with the Oshawa Generals in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL.) As the Leafs look to build their future blue line, Danford's skill set, physicality, and strength. make him a player to watch.

Danford's Strong Defensive Instinct and Offensive Play

At 6-foot-2 and 192 pounds, Danford is known for his defensive reliability and physical presence on the ice. He uses his size effectively to win battles near the boards and in front of the net. His shot blocking ability and willingness to play heavy minutes make him a perfect fit for an NHL shutdown role.

Related: Maple Leafs' Timothy Liljegren Faces Make or Break 2024-25 Season

Wes Clark, the Maple Leafs director of scouting, praised Danford's defensive IQ, noting his “high intangibles” and “excellent defensive instincts.” These traits are important for a defenseman aiming to play significant minutes against top competition in the NHL.

Although he is primarily known for his defensive game, Danford has greatly improved his offensive contributions. His 2023-24 season with Oshawa was a breakout year, as he posted 33 points (1 goal, 32 assists) in 64 games, compared to 21 points the previous season.

This increase in assists highlights Danford's ability to move the puck and create scoring opportunities from the back. His vision on the ice has improved, and he's more comfortable joining the chase when the opportunity arises. As he develops, this offensive side could make him a perfect defender.

A Strong Playoff Player Based On Physical Play And Behavior

One of Danford's most notable qualities is his ability to rise to the challenge. During the 2024 OHL Playoffs, he contributed to Oshawa's run to the championship series, contributing four goals and six assists in 21 playoff games. This was an improvement over last season's playoffs, when he managed one assist in five games.

Related: Can Cowan and Minten Crack Maple Leafs' Roster?

Danford's playoff performance shows that he thrives at a high level. Having a player who can elevate his game during the playoffs is especially important for an NHL team like the Maple Leafs, who have faced their fair share of postseason struggles.

Danford's physical play is one of the most attractive aspects of his game. He's not afraid to get involved on the offensive side of hockey, delivering big hits and defending his team's crease with authority. OHL scouts have noted his toughness, describing him as someone who isn't afraid to “give the lumber” to opposing players.

At the same time, Danford showed improved discipline. In the 2022-23 season, he totaled 42 penalty minutes and had a minus 4 rating, showing that he was still finding a balance between physical play and smart defense. However, in 2023-24, his penalty minutes dropped to 25, and his plus/minus jumped to plus-27, showing a more controlled and mature approach to his game.

Development Path, NHL Readiness, and Injury Concerns

While Danford is expected to return to the OHL for the 2024-25 season, his trajectory suggests he could be ready for the NHL within a few years. Scouts have projected him as a potential 22-minute-a-night defenseman, capable of logging significant minutes against top opponents. His ability to play in all situations—power play, penalty kill, even power play—makes him a versatile asset for the Maple Leafs. As he continues to improve his offensive game and refine his defensive instincts, Danford could evolve into a top-four defenseman at the NHL level.

Related: Maple Leafs News and Rumors: Kämpf, Dermott, Danford & Harden

Recently, Danford gave the Maple Leafs a bit of a scare during practice. After a bad hit from forward Marshall Finnie, he left the ice and missed the Prospects Showcase against the Montreal Canadiens. Fortunately, Danford was able to swing under his own power at the time, but he was evaluated for possible physical injuries.

“He is being evaluated right now. I hope he'll be OK,” said Maple Leafs head coach John Gruden.

Although this injury is a concern, it does not appear to be serious. Given Danford's fitness and performance, the Maple Leafs hope he can recover quickly and continue to develop without major setbacks.

Danford's highest value

Potentially, Danford offers the Maple Leafs a promising combination of defensive reliability, growing offensive ability, and playoff stability. As he continues to develop in the OHL, fans and team management alike can expect Danford to emerge as a key piece of Toronto's future blue line. His recent injury scare, while concerning, has overshadowed the bright future of this talented prospect.