The Toronto Maple Leafs have announced that Mark Leach as the team’s Director of Amateur Scouting. Leach replaces Wes Clark. Moreover, it seems that Leach took the job after Wes Clark had previously resigned to take a job with the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Toronto Maple Leafs Hire Mark Leach as Director of Amateur Scouting
Leafs have hired Wes Clark’s replacement Mark Leach, who worked the last 11 seasons in Dallas’ scouting team. pic.twitter.com/jOt5yJGPOA
— David Alter (@dalter) July 18, 2024
Leach joins the Maple Leafs following 11 seasons with the Dallas Stars amateur scouting staff. In Dallas, Leach worked directly with the Stars’ Director of Amateur Scouting. Under Leach, the Stars had great success drafting. Some of their successful draft picks include Miro Heiskanen, Jake Oettinger, and Wyatt Johnston. Let’s be honest, a who’s who of top-flight, fledging hockey players in the NHL right now.
Leach Started His Career in Hockeytown
Leach began his career in the NHL as an Amateur Scout with the Detroit Red Wings where he spent 20 seasons. During his time with the Red Wings, Leach helped put together the rosters that would lead the team to the Stanley Cup in 1997, 1998, 2002 and 2008. While a lot of the Red Wings success during that time has gone to Ken Holland, Leach’s hand in the success is undeniable.
What Does This Mean for the Maple Leafs?
This is a great grab for the Maple Leafs, especially after losing Clark. The reason the Red Wings were able to stay competitive for so long was they were always producing NHL-ready talent. The Stars have maintained success by doing the same thing. Leach will be able to help the Maple Leafs remain competitive as they aim to win their first Stanley Cup since 1967.
Something that will also help the Maple Leafs is that Leach is used to scouting without high draft picks. Competitive teams will sometimes trade high draft picks to get talent that can help contend. For example, the Maple Leafs traded a first-round pick in 2023 for Ryan O’Reilly and Noel Acciari.
Leach has helped draft talent despite limited high picks. In Dallas, Logan Stankoven, Jason Robertson, and Roope Hintz were drafted outside the first round. Leach helped bring success to Detroit and Dallas. Time will tell if he can do the same in Toronto.
Main photo credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports
