Why the Maple Leafs should pursue Carter Amico with 2nd-round pick

It’s clear that Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving prefers physical defencemen who can facilitate easy exits, break up oncoming rushes and punish opponents. Amico may fit this description perfectly. When healthy, Amico excelled on the penalty kill for the USNTDP and could develop into a player that can be trusted in all situations. Amico’s favourite player is Florida Panthers defenceman Seth Jones — which may bode well, considering how well Jones played for the Stanley Cup champions in the playoffs.

“Carter’s obviously got the size but he also skates well and has good hands, and he can physically impose himself on his opponents. Whether that’s with an open-ice hit or just being physical down low in the defensive zone,” USNTDP head coach Greg Moore said to Jordan McAlpine of USHL.com. “But I think the biggest thing with Carter is I give him a ton of credit for how he handled everything this season and his work ethic. He’s done a really good job of working to get himself back into shape and the positive energy and bright smile he brings into the room is infectious.”

It’s been mentioned in previous profiles, but the Maple Leafs need to add quality defencemen to their prospect pool. Ben Danford is the only player in the system that projects to make a meaningful impact at the NHL level and while Amico will need to refine his offensive game in the NCAA, his combination of physicality and hockey intelligence ought to translate well. He won’t be rushed to the NHL but Amico could be a building block as the Maple Leafs chart an uncertain future.

Amico could’ve potentially been a first-round pick if it weren’t for his untimely injury. Toronto could make a calculated bet on Amico’s talent if he drops to No. 64 at the 2025 NHL Draft and by all accounts, he’s a player that fits exactly what Treliving and head coach Craig Berube are looking for on the blue line.