The Toronto Maples Leafs have signed their first-round pick from the 2024 NHL Entry Draft. Welcome Ben Danford to the Leafs as he signs his Entry-Level, first NHL contract today. General manager Brad Treliving and staff are excited to have their top pick from the 2024 draft signed.
Pen to paper ✍️
We’ve signed defenceman Ben Danford to a three-year, entry-level contract
— Toronto Maple Leafs (@MapleLeafs) August 2, 2024
The Toronto Maple Leafs Sign Ben Danford to Entry-Level Contract
From the Leafs position at the draft, Ben Danford was more or less a safe selection. He’s been playing for the OHL’s Oshawa Generals and wore the ‘A’ last year for the club. In 64 games he had one goal and 32 assists. However, what Danford brings to the organization is his physical play. He relishes in playing the physical game, and it helps that is he a capable skater as well. At this point he is described as a mobile, defensive defenceman. The kind of boring classification that can ultimately help a team win. Aspects like his offensive game and also being disciplined can be developed as he grows into a professional. Moreover, even since January he has shown modest improvements in his offence.
What Does this Mean for the Leafs Organization
Signing Ben Danford to a contract is important for the Maple Leafs organization in terms of appearance. First of all, for the type of player he is, and that they are needed to build complete rosters. Also, from an organizational standpoint, it is important to sign your first round pick to an ELC in a timely manner. As we are just at the beginning of August, it gives Danford the confidence that he did enough to impress at Leafs rookie development camp. The Leafs assistant general manager, player development, Hayley Wickenheiser surely put in the good word on Danford. It will be exciting to see where he ends up come October, and to watch him have a big season. Oshawa would sure love to have him back in the fold, but also don’t want him held back.
Main photo: Dan Hamilton USA TODAY Sports
