After watching the Maple Leafs‘ top 3 defensive prospects, it’s clear they’ve made an impact on the ice and even on the score sheet. This adds comfort for management and the coaching staff, who can now have flexibility on the bench in the future and down the stretch as the 2027 NHL Trade Deadline approaches.
Another aspect to watch is a breakout star to lead the team defensively, alongside Darren Radysh, Chris Tanev and Morgan Reilly. Even defenseman Troy Stretcher is starting to light up the lamp as the season progresses. This is paying dividends for the team, thanks to brilliant farm-team management under previous GM Brad Treliving.
But now, it’s the story of the year for the Maple Leafs. We take you through three rising defensemen on the Marlies hockey team, the AHL affiliate of the Maple Leafs, who could make an impact on the roster. These three defensive prospects combine speed, gritty skill and comparable size as they develop.
The most notable sign is that the first candidate can score with nifty stickwork and has promising playmaking skills. The second candidate has the size and physicality to keep up with the other nifty skaters in the league and the third contender is already called up to serve his team and has two plus-2 games and another plus-1
The Top 3 Defensive Prospects for the Toronto Maple Leafs
Vinny Borgesi
Vinny Borgesi is a solid two-way player who can score goals and make plays that lead to goals for his team. He is a speedy, skillful defenseman who could be a threat in creating turnovers and blocking shots if he adds those skills to his arsenal. His game fits well with the Maple Leafs’ roster. Borgesi would be the first candidate to represent the team and could become a breakout star.
So far, Borgesi has recorded one goal and seven assists in eight games played in the AHL. This is a promising sign of his progression as a defenseman. He still needs more games in the farm league to make an impact in the NHL. His numbers show strong progress and give his team a chance to compete.
Philippe Myers
Philippe Myers is a sizable defenseman. He has 19 penalty minutes, one goal and four assists in 11 games for the Marlies. This suggests he is on pace for a productive season. His game shows plenty of grit that the Leafs can use next. Myers is also a playmaker, which means he can create turnovers in the offensive zone and record points.
His points-per-game average is .71, however, he needs more time in the farm system to be ready for the NHL. His play is promising for the Leafs and shows encouraging improvement down the stretch.
Cole McWard
Cole McWard has played only five games this season but has three assists with the Marlies. His promising look is that he can make plays to his advantage and is a good skater with a +1 on the ice. He was on the Maple Leafs’ roster for a short time before recently being sent back down to the AHL.
He can make an impact and provide a simple scoring touch, as shown. He could be called up to be a regular down the stretch if he keeps improving and shows he can stick with the best.
The Last Word
The top 3 defensive prospects for the Maple Leafs are labeled as such and can make an impact for their teams. We won’t see some of these prospects at the NHL level as long as the Leafs’ roster is complete but they’ll be ready when needed again. This will give the team an added advantage in competition and help the club win games.
Main Image: David Kirouac-Imagn Images
