Maple Leafs’ Top Prospects Will Benefit From Marlies’ Calder Cup Run

Eight years removed from their last and first championship, the Toronto Marlies are the top team in the American Hockey League winning their second title after knocking off the Chicago Wolves in five games. While this Marlies team didn’t have any marquee names, they had a number of strong veteran players like Logan Shaw, Dakota Mermis, Alexander Nylander and Vinni Lettieri to lead the way. They were resilient and worked hard to get their desired outcome.  

More importantly, they managed to get results from their top prospects within the system. Easton Cowan, who was on loan since the Toronto Maple Leafs’ season ended, Artur Akhytamov and Ben Danford all showed why they were important players for success in their run. It also helps them with their development to instill a winning mindset for the next level. 

Cowan Continues to Rack Up Accolades

Although he isn’t classified as a prospect, Cowan’s play during the postseason continues to impress everyone as he once again elevated his game to a standard for this time of the season. He did just that during this run as he finished third in playoff scoring with 18 points in 22 games, leading all rookie skaters in the process. While there were mistakes and moments that he would like to have back, he shook it off and bounced back to redeem himself. 

Cowan was productive but also played with an edge to get under the opponent’s skin as many do in the playoffs. He was playing the game he knows how; hounding pucks on the forecheck, winning battles, finding the open to capitalize on his chances and wasn’t afraid to mix things up after the whistle. He was truly one of the Marlies’ most consistent offensive producer and creator and when they needed a spark, he provided it with this fantastic give-and-go with Jacob Quillan in the final game.  

Many are going to diminish his value of what he did as NHLer in the AHL. To be honest, I’d be concerned if he wasn’t dominating and buzzing around like he was. The NHL experience definitely showed here despite not playing a lot in the minor league during the regular season. When the playoffs come around, you can bank on him being a standout player as he had a number of big moments with the London Knights in the Ontario Hockey League.

At 21 years old, Cowan’s a two-time OHL Champion, a playoff MVP, a Memorial Cup Champion and MVP and now a Calder Cup Champion. He did all this in the last three years of his young career. When the games mean more, he thrives and doesn’t panic under pressure. That alone is impressive and should help him take a big step next season. 

King Artur Has MVP Performance

Let’s face it, the Marlies wouldn’t have been where they were if it weren’t for the stellar play and MVP performance from Akhtyamov. He was a big reason why they won as he back stopped them to victory. 

Akhtyamov was remarkable, going 15-7-0 with a save percentage of .923 and a 2.22 goals against average. There were times where he had to stand on his head when the team wasn’t playing well and gave them a fighting chance each game. He was very comfortable and up to the challenge and even though there were tough moments where maybe he wasn’t as sharp, he regrouped very quickly. 

Let’s not forget that it was his play in the postseason that forced general manager John Chayka’s hand to move on from Joseph Woll as he was already exceeding expectations. He proved that he can handle the pressure that comes in the playoffs with his performance and with Chayka seeing what he can do first hand, it’s really something that Akhtyamov can build off of.  

Many will point to his three-game stint in the NHL where he went 0-2-0 with an .877 SV% and 5.24 GAA as a reason why he’s not ready for the next level. Let’s not forget the Maple Leafs were a mess defensively down the stretch, especially in the games he played. It’s best to continue to let him build his confidence as the starter for next season and if there’s an injury, you can rest assured that he’ll get a call-up.

The way that he was tracking the puck, being aggressive on shooters and his lateral movement was strong. The Maple Leafs believe he will be a starter and when that day comes, he’ll be ready for that as he was an important player to watch this season.

Danford Showing He’s Ready For More

After being knocked out in the OHL playoffs with the Brantford Bulldogs, Danford didn’t have to wait long to get an opportunity and continue to make an impact defensively. He played in 16 games recording three points in the postseason and the transition to the pro level couldn’t have gone better for him.

Danford really showed his strengths on the championship run, his defensive strength, taking away lanes, blocking shots and a reliable and smooth breakout game to help push the offense. He talked about his confidence growing with his game during the transition, as that’ll help him take the next step for the NHL. However, there were some moments where being a rookie showed with some bad turnovers, but much like everyone else on the team, he didn’t let that bother him and responded.

Being a part of two successful teams where you fell short of a championship, but winning one at a higher level is something that’ll stay with him for a long time. He was in winning environments at such a young age and it’s something that he can bring with him to the next level. 

Danford isn’t an offensive puck mover, but he’s a steady and reliable two-way defender that plays a smart game. He’ll do whatever it takes to win and that is evident in his short stint. He got results and got rewarded for it. He stood out during the preseason for the Maple Leafs, was a leader on his junior team and already was getting meaningful minutes to win a championship. His trajectory is looking good right now.

While all eyes were on Cowan, Ahkytyamov and Danford, there were other names that stood out. Landon Sim was a major pest and thorn in the opponent’s side and thrived in a fourth line role. Quillan, Ryan Tverberg and Luke Haymes were also standouts as they provided great secondary scoring. William Villeneuve was also in MVP talks as he led all defenders in points with 23.

There was a lot to like with this Marlies team and their prospects were a major bright spot in a season where there really wasn’t anything to look forward to.