The Toronto Maple Leafs are ranked No. 22 in the 2024 NHL Pipeline Rankings.
Although the Toronto Maple Leafs’ system isn’t the deepest, it might be far worse given their current lack of draft cash. Prospects like Fraser Minten and Easton Cowan have shown promise, while second-round selection Matthew Knies has developed into a vital member of the club.
Analysis: Knies scored 35 points in his debut NHL season, helping Toronto’s offensive to be very potent. As a tall, powerful winger with a strong engine and a high skill level, Knies is a very likeable player. In places with heavy traffic, he can generate a lot of offensive and displays bravery by reaching the net. Although he isn’t the world’s most gifted playmaker, he can create lots of opportunities inside the offensive zone and has terrific hands. Knies has never been the best skater, but as a large, hard-working player, he has proven he can get beyond it. He appears to be a player who will finish in the top six for a very long time.
Analysis: Cowan was the OHL regular season and playoffs’ top player, having a great season. The past two seasons, he has been a reliable force for London. He is a persistent player who is close to the puck at all times. Despite his small size, he generates offensive near the net and wins challenges. In addition, Cowan is an extremely talented player with good ice vision and perimeter offensive ability. Does he have the most explosive 5-foot-11 game ever? Most likely not. However, he can develop into a competent middle-six winger who can contribute to both special teams.
Analysis: Although Minten didn’t have particularly impressive point totals in the WHL at age 19, he was a vital member of a championship squad. He led Canada’s U20 squad as well. Minten is a terrific player with tremendous skill and playmaking abilities, but he’s not a real legit scorer in my opinion. He will have his say, but in my opinion, Minten’s real value lies in the little nuances and careful two-way play. He’s not very good at skating. He has good speed and can move past players in junior, but I don’t see him picking up the pace in the NHL. He might be a third-line center in addition to a middle-six forward.
