Maple Leafs' Prospect Pool Set to Make Noise at September Tournament

The Leafs have a lessened prospect group after trading away top prospects Fraser Minten and Nikita Grebenkin, and prospects such as Topi Niemela have struggled to take the next step for Toronto.

Some potential NHLers remain, but the Leafs will hope there's players able to take a leap in their games to help Toronto's future.

Toronto is preparing for September's Prospect Tournament, with a few returning names and newcomers, with some top prospects expected to play and some players looking for a shot at a contract.

H3 #1: Early Projections for Toronto's Prospect Tournament Roster

Toronto's rookie showcase will be led by top prospect Easton Cowan. Fighting for a spot on a loaded Leafs roster, Cowan will have a major opportunity to dominate against other top prospects, and will get some experience to take into the preseason.

Other top prospects such as Miroslav Holinka and Tyler Hopkins are projected to be active in the Leafs lineup for the prospect tournament, while 2025 top draft pick Tinus Luc Koblar will be returning to Sweden to focus on trying to gain a potential roster spot with SHL club Leksands.

On defense, Ben Danford and Noah Chadwick are expected to lead the way, with draft picks Nathan Mayes and Rylan Fellinger potential depth defenders. It's not known if Matt Lahey will be at the showcase or go to Michigan State, as their season starts before the CHL's.

Another unknown for Toronto is in goal. Dennis Hildeby may sit out the showcase, opening up Artur Akhtyamov to start with another netminder such as Vyacheslav Peksa or a free agent signing to get the backup spot.

Easton Cowan will be the player to watch for Toronto as fans look to see his growth throughout the season.

The showcase will be a chance to see in a competitive setting their new prospects, such as Hopkins & Fellinger, as well as Harry Nansi and Matthew Hlacar. Koblar and Will Belle may be absent, but the 2025 draft class will likely be represented.

Free agent signings Luke Haymes and John Prokop are two players who will also get some serious looks for Toronto as the Leafs brass get to see if they stand out against the rookie group.

Alex Pharand, who joined Toronto at Development Camp after not being signed by the Chicago Blackhawks after drafting him in the fourth round in 2023, is looking for a chance at another contract, and will be hoping to take the jump he struggled to after his draft year.

One name to watch on defense is Noah Chadwick. Having had a breakout year last season after being a sixth round pick in 2023, Chadwick took a bit of a step back, not taking as big of a jump as he did the season prior.

Toronto will be hoping their prospect pool has players beyond Easton Cowan who can be effective and will be able to showcase growth in their overall game.

Beyond Cowan, Toronto does not have a strong prospect pool, having prioritized their playoff ambitions over their future, which has led to a strong roster, but a lack of young options who can contribute right away.

With a lack of top prospects in their system, this Tournament could go a long way in adding some major hype for a prospect who is able to show signs of a potential breakout.