The Toronto Maple Leafs Secure Luke Haymes: A Promising Addition to Their 2025 College Undrafted Free Agent Haul

The Toronto Maple Leafs have continued to bolster their 2025 college undrafted free agent haul by signing touted center Luke Haymes. Haymes, who hails from Dartmouth College, will join the Toronto Marlies for the conclusion of their AHL season. The 6’1, 200 lbs. center from Ottawa has been a highly sought-after prospect, with several teams, including the Senators, Tampa Bay, and the Rangers, showing interest in his services.

Haymes’ Journey to the NHL

Haymes’ journey to the NHL has been marked by impressive performances and strategic career moves. He played through 2020-21 at Ridley College in Ontario before heading to the Cowichan Valley Capitals of the BCHL for his age 18 season. There, he scored 49 points in 52 games, leading his team in goals (22) and finishing second in points.

From the BCHL, Haymes moved to Dartmouth, a lower-tier NCAA D1 program. Despite the team’s struggles when he arrived, Haymes’ presence helped turn things around. Dartmouth improved from a 5-24-1 record in his freshman season to 13 and 18 wins in the subsequent two seasons, finishing fourth and fifth in the ECAC conference.

Standout Performances and Scouting Reports

Haymes’ sophomore season was particularly impressive. He more than doubled his point total from 16 to 36 points, leading the Big Green Men in goals, assists, and points. His 36 points were 11 clear of the next closest player, earning him a spot on the 2023-24 All-ECAC First Team.

Scouting services have been bullish on Haymes. Elite Prospects moved him up to #1 on this year’s NCAA free agent rankings, likening him to a drafted player rather than a typical UDFA playing college hockey. They praise his goal-scoring abilities, describing his shot as NHL calibre. Moreover, Elite Prospects compliments Haymes’ goal-scoring instincts and willingness to go to the net to score tougher, playoff-style goals. The site also praises Haymes’ puck retrievals, attention to detail, work rate, and abilities on the boards in both the offensive and defensive zones.

McKeen’s Hockey highlighted Haymes’ hardworking style, forechecking ability, powerful shot, close-quarters goalscoring, and two-way game. They also mentioned off-ice intangibles, including leadership and competitive drive.

Comparisons and Future Prospects

Comparing Haymes to past Leafs UDFA signings, he is similar in age to Alex Steeves when he signed with Toronto, while Haymes is a bit younger than Max Ellis was and two years younger than Bobby McMann when they signed him. This suggests a higher upside and less of a finished product, with plenty of room for development.

Haymes’ age is a significant factor in his potential. At 21, he is younger than most NCAA free agents who are typically drafted. This developmental advantage could see him grow into a valuable NHL player.

Challenges and Opportunities

While Haymes’ skills and potential are evident, he will face challenges adjusting to the pace of the AHL and potentially the NHL. The ECAC is not the most talented league in college hockey, and Dartmouth occasionally plays non-conference games against top teams like Boston College or UMass. This is different from the weekly grind of a Big Ten conference schedule.

Despite these challenges, Haymes’ work ethic, versatility, and attention to detail bode well for his future. His solid vision for play-making and slick hands are evident in his game tape, and his tracking numbers grade him among the very best players in college hockey.

Impact on the Toronto Maple Leafs

The Toronto farm system has lacked depth at center, an issue exacerbated by trading Fraser Minten for Brandon Carlo at the trade deadline. Signing Haymes is a significant win for Brad Treliving’s management team and a very respectable way of shoring up the position while adding overall quality to the farm system.

Did You Know?

Haymes played remarkably few NCAA games due to the Ivy League programs starting their season later than any other D1 college teams and his injury during this season. This suggests even more possible growth and untapped potential.

Pro Tip

For aspiring hockey players, Haymes’ journey highlights the importance of hard work, versatility, and attention to detail. These traits are crucial for success at any level of the sport.

FAQ Section

What teams were interested in signing Luke Haymes?

Several teams, including the Senators, Tampa Bay, and the Rangers, showed interest in signing Luke Haymes.

What are Haymes’ standout skills?

Haymes is known for his goal-scoring abilities, powerful shot, forechecking ability, and two-way game. He is also praised for his leadership and competitive drive.

How does Haymes’ age benefit his development?

At 21, Haymes is younger than most NCAA free agents who are typically drafted. This developmental advantage could see him grow into a valuable NHL player.

Summary

The Toronto Maple Leafs have made a strategic move by signing Luke Haymes, a highly sought-after undrafted free agent from Dartmouth College. His impressive performances and potential make him a valuable addition to the team. As he joins the Toronto Marlies for the AHL season, fans can look forward to seeing how this young talent develops and contributes to the team’s future success.

Call to Action

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