Maple Leafs Announce News on Top Prospect Ben Danford

Stephen R&period; Sylvanie-Imagn Images

Maple Leafs Announce News on Top Prospect Ben Danford

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Michael DeRosa | Last updated May 11, 2026 1:42 PM ET

The Toronto Maple Leafs are going to get their first look at top prospect Ben Danford at the professional level.

The Toronto Marlies announced on Monday morning that the Maple Leafs have assigned Danford to the AHL squad.

Danford being assigned to the Marlies' roster is significant, as it will be his first opportunity to play at the AHL level. The 6-foot-2 right-shot defenseman will now be looking to make a big impact as the Marlies continue their playoff run.

Danford was selected by the Maple Leafs in the first round of the 2024 NHL Entry Draft with the 31st overall pick. With Easton Cowan becoming a regular in the Maple Leafs' lineup this season, Danford is now considered the team's top prospect. With this, all eyes will be on Danford as he kicks off his AHL career with the Marlies.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have assigned D Ben Danford to the Marlies.
— Toronto Marlies PR (@AHLMarliesPR) May 11, 2026

Danford is also coming off a strong 2025-26 season in the Ontario Hockey League. In 45 regular-season games this campaign split between the Oshawa Generals and Brantford Bulldogs, the big blueliner recorded three goals, 17 assists, 20 points, and a plus-2 rating. He also had a goal and three points in 13 playoff games for Brantford this spring.

With the Maple Leafs needing to improve, Danford is a prospect that they are hoping will hit his full potential in the future. He has the tools to become an effective top-four defensive defenseman, and it will be intriguing to see how he performs during his first chance with the Marlies from here.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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