Maple Leafs Top Prospect Shines as Standout Playoff Performer with Impressive Stat

While the Maple Leafs try and push toward an Atlantic Division title, the OHL playoffs are in full swing, with a ton of prospects in the system trying to vie for a chance at glory with their respective teams.

One name in particular that will be interesting to watch is Ben Danford. Toronto's most recent first round draft pick had a solid season with the Oshawa Generals, including being named Bobby Orr Defenseman of the Year.

However, it's what he's doing and has done in the playoffs that have some turning heads and gives a lot of hope toward the team's future, especially in the postseason.

Seemingly activating his clutch gene when needed most, Danford doubling up on his regular season total in the postseason is nothing short of impressive, especially considering he's not only a defenseman, but more on the defensive end of things.

Scoring in the postseason has been a sore spot for the Maple Leafs, and haven't really had a defenseman besides Morgan Rielly who has stepped up in the playoffs at both ends of the ice.

Given how Toronto's defense is not only aging, but under long-term deals, the ability to have Danford progress so quickly and potentially fight for a spot allows them a bit of a relief if a player goes down with injury or struggles.

Danford scored way more this season than previous, but his assists are down. It's not the most concerning thing, but if he's taking a lot of shots, he needs to make sure they are dangerous chances, and not just half-hearted attempts at the net.

If his goal against Brampton is anything to go by, he's able to use his speed and quick release to get goals as opposed to blasting point shots, though he's definitely capable of scoring from there too.

For his OHL career, Danford has 69 points (10G, 59A) over 188 games while adding 135 PIM and a plus-28; he also has 12 points in 27 playoff games (5G, 7A).

Toronto seems to have a bright future ahead of them with Ben Danford, and if he keeps on succeeding in the OHL playoffs, he may have very well played himself into a big league appearance next season.

But nothing's for certain, though things are certainly hopeful.