Maple Leafs Might Need to Rely on Avalanche’s First-Round Pick

The Toronto Maple Leafs are in a very precarious spot. After a disastrous 0-6 homestand, things aren’t looking up at all considering how last season went. They were able to retain their first-round pick last year and select Gavin McKenna first overall. However, they won’t have their first for the 2027 or 2028 draft. 

They are lucky to still have a first-round pick, even if it’s not their own. The first from the Colorado Avalanche is theirs at the moment and with Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar out with injuries, that asset becomes more important. That pick is definitely in play if a trade works out for a top-pairing defenseman or selecting in the 2027 draft. It’s top-10 protected, but if the Avalanche fall in the standings, that pick could be more valuable. 

While it should be moved in a trade, the Maple Leafs could have a slew of options if they keep the pick. They’re in the 18-23 range and there are some intriguing names that could be available.

Cooper McAslan, RD, London Knights (OHL)

The Maple Leafs aren’t afraid to draft players from the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League. It worked out with Easton Cowan and Cooper McAslan is definitely gaining a lot of attention this season. Even though he’s a rookie skater, he has 20 points in 20 games, good for fourth overall among defensemen. He was also an underrated player for Canada at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup winning a gold medal.

McAslan is a steady, two-way defender with great mobility and has the ability to effectively shut down plays with his range and size. His offensive game has taken a big step forward as his play in the tough areas and defensive zone really stand out. He’s not flashy, but also makes the safe, smart play every time. His game is starting to round out and be a player that can make an impact on both sides of the puck.

Kayden Stroeder, C, Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL)

I absolutely loved the tenacity, drive and skill that Kayden Stroeder possesses. He formed a lethal line with fellow draft-eligible prospect Jakko Wycisk and 2028 prospect Benjamin Veitch at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup and was absolutely dominant. He has 18 points in 17 games so far this season, as the combination of his compete and skill are evident.

Stroder is equal parts shooter and playmaker. He’s constantly pushing the middle of the ice, making deceptive passes and look-offs with his teammates, but also creating havoc in front of the net and high danger area. He plays with pace as there is no stop to his game. He can play the body and does a great job to win puck battles and regain possession. 

Levi Harper, RD, Saginaw Spirit (OHL)

While McAslan is a two-way presence, Harper is an offensively driven defenseman as he’s always a factor on every play that he’s in on. He had 57 points last season and is currently fifth in scoring among OHL defenders with 18 points.

Harper is extremely dynamic when he has the puck. He’s a quick and agile skater to lead a rush and is constantly pushing the pace in the offensive zone. He does a great job to get pucks on net and is constantly finding the open ice for a shot or to create a play. He walks the line to get into shooting position and effectively draws players into to open things up and making strong passing plays. 

He’s a high-risk, high-reward player, but there should be give and take with the way he plays as he’s not as strong defensively. He’s committed to the University of the Michigan for next season. 

Aleks Kulemin, C, Kingston Frontenacs (OHL)

The son of former Maple Leaf, Nikolai, Aleks is really a handful on both sides of the puck. The 17-year-old has 19 points in 21 games and has steadily continued to improve his game as the season goes on and even from last season. 

Kulemin has improved his skating and his overall offensive skillset, showing more offensive upside and production compared to last season. He’s tough to go up against as he can push his way to the middle very well, showing great puck skills and handling. He’s not afraid to get into the tough areas as he has the strength and positioning to win battles. He can pressure players, force turnovers and take advantage of those mistakes.

Ryerson Edgar, C, Niagara IceDogs (OHL)

Already at a point per game in his draft year, Ryerson Edgar continues to be a player that even if he isn’t producing, you notice him regardless as he’s constantly doing the little things right to impact the game.

Edgar has a great understanding of the game, both with and without the puck as those details make him successful. He’s always in position to make something happen or to intercept plays. He has great speed in transition and can hunt down pucks very well. He’s pesky as he’s constantly forcing mistakes, making timely stick lifts and checks. He can set up plays well, has a decent shot and plays with a great amount of energy.