Ben Danford Gets Major Opportunity to Impress the Maple Leafs Ahead of World Juniors

Maple Leafs defensive prospect Ben Danford skates with the puck during Toronto's training camp.

Photo credit: Steven Ellis – The Daily Faceoff

Toronto Maple Leafs defensive prospect Ben Danford has been invited to the World Junior Summer Showcase as he eyes a spot on Team Canada this season, and impress the Leafs as well.

The World Juniors are always the most exciting time for hockey, not only due to the fast paced action, but it’s a fantastic look at the future of the sport, with some of the world’s best young players vying for international glory.

Ben Danford gets to showcase his skills for Team Canada

For the Maple Leafs, they will have some representation potentially this winter, as prospect Ben Danford has been invited to the World Junior Summer Showcase to audition for Team Canada.

According to scout and analyst Ryan Ma, Danford’s shot at making the team is pretty solid given the team loves to employ some stay-at-home defenders every year.

Danford enjoyed a solid season with the Generals, registering 25 points (5 goals, 20 assists) and making it to the OHL Championships yet again, but losing to fellow prospect Easton Cowan; who went all the way to a Memorial Cup.

Defensive Logjam means Danford isn’t ready…yet

It’s a great chance for Danford to dip his foot into the international hockey pool but also allow him to get even better ahead of the Maple Leafs’ training camp.

While he is unlikely to make it right out of the gate, he has a great chance to star with the Marlies with Cowan and potentially earn a call-up due to injuries or if he’s hot.

But he’s close, and if he can put in a good year with the Marlies, he’ll earn a shot next season and depending on how the trade deadline goes; potentially earlier.

But the first stop is the World Junior Summer Showcase.

Previously on HockeyPatrol

POLL

15 HOURS AGO   |   433 ANSWERS

Ben Danford Gets Major Opportunity to Impress the Maple Leafs Ahead of World Juniors

Will Ben Danford make the World Juniors?

HOCKEYPATROL.COM
COPYRIGHT @2025 – ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
TERMS  –  POLICIES