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

Sep 30, 2023; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs right wing Easton Cowan (53) plays the puck against Montreal Canadiens center Nick Suzuki (14) during the third period at Bell Centre

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

The Toronto Maple Leafs are prepared to showcase their prospect pool and uncover some potential hidden gems.

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.

Which Young Players Have the Most to Prove

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.

Why the Prospect Showcase Matters for the Maple Leafs

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.

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

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