2026-27 Toronto Maple Leafs Top Prospects

** Different sites can use different criteria for determining who is still a prospect. Also, for Dobber Prospect lists they take a fantasy hockey approach – prospects whose current trajectory projects them making the most positive fantasy impact at the time that they reach the NHL.

Gavin McKenna – McKenna is an elite offensive winger with the skill and hockey sense to become a cornerstone player for the Maple Leafs. Selected first overall in 2026 after recording 51 points in 35 games at Penn State, McKenna’s greatest strengths are his exceptional vision, creativity, puck handling and ability to manipulate defenders before finding teammates in scoring areas. He processes the game extremely quickly and should eventually become a major weapon on Toronto’s power play.

Ben Danford – Danford’s value comes from his mature defensive game, leadership qualities, and excellent mobility. While some fans initially questioned the selection because his offensive numbers were modest, scouts have long appreciated his ability to shut down opposing forwards, control gaps, and make smart decisions under pressure. His skating is a major strength, allowing him to defend rushes effectively and move the puck efficiently out of his own zone.

Artur Akhtyamov – Akhtyamov is an athletic goaltender whose quickness and competitive nature have pushed him close to becoming a full-time NHL player. The 24-year-old was outstanding during Toronto’s 2026 Calder Cup run, posting a .923 save percentage in 22 playoff games and earning playoff MVP honours. Akhtyamov’s strengths are his quick lateral movement, fluid footwork, reflexes and ability to battle for second opportunities. He tracks the puck well and has the athleticism to make difficult east-west saves.

Tinus-Luc Koblar – Koblar has shown flashes of scoring ability and creativity while continuing to refine the details of his game. His skating and consistency remain areas of focus, but he has steadily improved in both areas over the last few seasons. What stands out most is his willingness to engage physically and compete in difficult areas of the ice.

Ethan MacKenzie – MacKenzie is a mobile, competitive two-way defenseman who emerged as one of the biggest late-developing prospects in the 2026 draft. Toronto selected him 69th overall after he produced 22 goals and 58 points in 59 games for Edmonton of the WHL and represented Canada at the World Juniors. MacKenzie’s strengths include his skating, motor, physical competitiveness, puck movement and ability to contribute in transition. He closes gaps aggressively, moves the puck efficiently and has enough offensive ability to contribute from the blue line.

2026 Toronto Maple Leafs Draft Picks

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