In the upcoming weeks, numerous players will become available for entry-level contracts in the NHL as teams are eliminated and NCAA seasons conclude. The Toronto Maple Leafs have a history of successfully tapping into the NCAA talent pool to replenish their prospect pipeline, offering an efficient means of bolstering their roster without sacrificing draft picks.
Trevor Moore serves as a recent example of the value derived from NCAA signings. He made significant contributions to the Marlies during their Calder Cup championship triumph in 2018. Although Moore’s tenure with the Maple Leafs was relatively brief, as he was traded to the Los Angeles Kings in the deal that brought Jack Campbell and Kyle Clifford to Toronto, it underscores the potential value of NCAA free agents.
Tyler Bozak, an earlier illustration, spent several seasons as the Maple Leafs’ top-line center alongside star winger Phil Kessel. While not all NCAA free agents reach such levels of success, there is inherent value in their ability to contribute to the minor league teams.
This year, there are several promising candidates who could become valuable NHL players, and the Leafs may be interested in pursuing them. For detailed statistics and information on these players, refer to EliteProspects.com.
Collin Graf, a 21-year-old forward from Quinnipiac University, stands out as the top NCAA free agent this season. Known for his playmaking abilities, Graf tallied an impressive 38 assists in 41 games last season, contributing to his team’s championship victory. While he hasn’t replicated his point totals from last year, his scoring pace has remained strong, going from 1.44 points per game to 1.59 points per game this season.
Given his talent, there will undoubtedly be numerous teams interested in acquiring Graf’s services. Should the Toronto Maple Leafs be fortunate enough, he might choose to join their organization. At his young age, Graf still has a couple of crucial years for further development and refining his game. While he may not be a game-changer in the broader sense, the Leafs will benefit from the contributions of affordable and young talent in the upcoming seasons.
T.J. Hughes, a 22-year-old forward from the University of Michigan, is not related to the prominent Hughes family featuring Luke, Jack, and Quinn. Born in Hamilton, Ontario, Hughes is currently in his sophomore year at the University of Michigan. Throughout 75 NCAA games, he has recorded 31 goals and 80 points.
Before his college career, Hughes excelled in the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL), accumulating 194 points in 138 games. In the 2021-22 season, he particularly shone with the Brooks Bandits, scoring 66 goals and amassing 127 points in 60 games. Hughes is not only known for his scoring prowess but also for his gritty style of play, often positioning himself in front of the net.
As of now, the Leafs’ bottom-six forward situation appears uncertain for the upcoming season and beyond, with only nine forwards currently under contract. While Hughes may not be NHL-ready immediately, if signed, he could serve as a valuable depth player deserving of call-ups throughout the year.
Jacob Quillan, a 22-year-old forward from Quinnipiac University, is a well-rounded player who excels in playmaking and possesses a smooth transition game, making him a threat on offense at the NCAA level. He has shown consistent improvement in his point production year after year, recording 38 points in 41 games last season and already tallying 39 points in 34 games so far. Quillan’s offensive skills are complemented by his strong defensive game, both at even strength and on the penalty kill.
Like many players on this list, Quillan is projected to have limited NHL potential, likely fitting into a bottom-six role. However, if he can successfully translate his offensive abilities to the professional level, he has the potential to be a productive depth player for a team.
Luke Krys, a 23-year-old defenseman from Providence College, is a right-handed blueliner standing at 6’2″ and weighing 185 lbs. He is known for his mobility and effectively using his size to separate opponents from the puck, which makes him an attractive prospect for teams seeking defensive help.
Considering the Toronto Maple Leafs’ recent acquisitions, Krys is likely to be a player of interest for them among the pool of college free agents. It’s worth noting that Luke’s brother, Chad Krys, was part of the Leafs organization in the 2021-22 season. While this familial connection may or may not provide an advantage, if given the opportunity, it is expected that the Leafs would strongly consider signing Luke Krys, especially given the lack of right-handed defensemen on their current depth chart.
Jaxon Nelson, a 23-year-old forward from the University of Minnesota, possesses all the physical attributes necessary to carve out a role as a net-front presence in the bottom-six at the professional level. Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 225 lbs, he may not be the swiftest skater and is unlikely to make highlight-reel plays. However, Nelson’s gritty and imposing style of play is highly sought after by many teams for their lower-lineup positions.
While he may not be the most prolific offensive player, Nelson has achieved career highs this season with 16 goals and 28 points in 36 games. His size and tenacious style make him a valuable addition as a depth player, whether in the NHL or as a candidate for call-ups from the AHL.
Dylan Anhorn, a 25-year-old defenseman from St. Cloud State, has limited room for further development due to his age. However, he has the potential to make an immediate impact at the professional level. Anhorn has excelled in college hockey over the past few years, accumulating 75 points in 86 games as a defenseman between Union College and St. Cloud State.
He boasts impressive underlying numbers to support his production and is a capable and mobile two-way defenseman. Standing at 6’0″ and weighing 190 lbs, Anhorn possesses the physical attributes that many teams seek in a professional blueliner. Even if he doesn’t quite live up to the hype, he should be able to translate his game to the AHL and become a reliable depth option going forward. If he reaches his full potential, he could solidify a spot in the #4-6 range on the defensive depth chart.
