Ben Danford Inspired by Three Influential Maple Leafs at Development Camp

Toronto's 31st overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, Ben Danford has looked like a very solid addition to the team's prospect pool. Though he might not be that standout #1 defenseman, he's bound to bring an energetic, physical and exciting game when he makes his debut.

Though that may be a little bit away, he's currently participating in Toronto's development camp, and seems to be inching closer to making his NHL debut.

As it turns out, he's got some fantastic coaching to help him learn the ropes. According to the Toronto Sun's Lance Hornby, there's a trio of Maple Leafs who are making sure his transition is as smooth as possible:

That's quite the group of players to learn from, and the combination of a winning mindset, incredible amount of defensive knowledge, and knowing how to maximize the amount of years in the league is going to leave Danford comfortable for years to come.

Giordano is the NHL's all-time leading shot blocker and one of the savviest defensive minds in the game, and though he's retired has been working with the young players recently.

Tanev was brought in last season and was a monster on the ice, putting his body on the line at every opportunity and not being afraid to do what's necessary to help the team.

Much like Giordano, Muzzin is retired but the career he had as one of the toughest shut-down defenders in the league, mixed with his relentless shot-blocking ability of his own; he helped the Kings to a Stanley Cup in 2011-12.

There seems to be a pattern in who Toronto entrusts to help Danford, as all three men are known for their physicality and sacrificing everything they have each and every night. They all have the drive, the grit, the passion; and Danford is learning how to use that to his advantage.

He's not afraid to drop the gloves, he's tough as nails, and while not a huge offensive presence, Danford loves to be aggressive and is willing to get physical to close the gap and create some transition offense.

In 188 games with the Oshawa Generals, he registered 79 points (10G, 69A) and made the OHL Championships in back to back seasons, losing both times to fellow Leafs prospect Easton Cowan.

It won't be this season where we see him make his debut, but there's a very good chance he finds his way onto the Marlies at the end of the offseason. From there, it seems the sky is the limit for Danford, especially with his trio of coaches backing him up.