In the realm of hockey prospect rankings, the Toronto Maple Leafs have made waves with their 2026 draft haul, but it's the overlooked players who truly pique my interest. While the spotlight shines on the top picks, I find myself drawn to the stories of those who, despite not cracking the top 20, still hold promise and intrigue. Let's delve into the narratives of Hudson Malinoski, Timofei Obvintsev, Alexander Plesovskikh, William Belle, Vincent Borgesi, Sam McCue, Yaroslav Fedoseyev, and Brody Pepoy, each with their own unique journey and potential.
The Unseen Potential
Hudson Malinoski: Malinoski, a center with a knack for playmaking, has been a stalwart in the NCAA for three years. His sophomore season showed promise, but a dip in production this past year has raised concerns. Malinoski's ability to make plays around the net and his vision as a passer are intriguing, yet he hasn't taken that next step towards becoming an NHL prospect. With time ticking, Malinoski must return to Providence for his senior year, aiming to show tremendous growth to secure his future.
Timofei Obvintsev: Obvintsev's story is one of intrigue and potential. After a couple of years in Russia with limited play, the Leafs drafted him in the fifth round. With a .921 SV% in Russia's junior circuit, the hope was that he would continue to develop. However, Obvintsev has played just 11 games at the junior level and six in the VHL. Now, he makes the jump to North America for the 2026-27 season, with the Marlies eager to see what he has in him. Obvintsev's journey is a testament to the Leafs' faith in his potential.
Alexander Plesovskikh: Plesovskikh, a fifth-round pick in the 2024 draft, has been productive in the MHL but has struggled to find opportunities beyond the junior level. With just four games in the VHL and a few shifts in the KHL, Plesovskikh's development has been slow. His energetic brand of hockey and puck skills are promising, but he needs to carve out a regular role in the VHL. The Leafs may take a more hands-on approach to his development, similar to Obvintsev's journey.
The Underrated and Undervalued
William Belle: Belle, a fifth-round pick, was a bit of a wild card last year. His physical attributes and menacing presence on the forecheck are impressive, but his offensive numbers were underwhelming. Belle needs to build out his game and improve upon his numbers in his sophomore year at Notre Dame. With the right development, he could carve out a solid career, even as a fourth-line checker.
Vincent Borgesi: Borgesi, an undrafted free agent, brings a unique skill set to the table. His smooth skating and involvement all over the ice make him a smooth operator. While he is fighting an uphill battle on the Marlies' blue line, his active stick and intelligent positioning are assets. Borgesi must earn every minute, but his skill set is one the organization doesn't have in abundance.
Sam McCue: McCue, a seventh-round pick, saw his production decline this past season in the OHL. However, with good size, a nose for the net, and a strong motor, there is still a path to the pros. McCue will begin his collegiate career at the University of Vermont, aiming to hit the ground running and keep himself in consideration for an ELC.
The Rising Stars
Yaroslav Fedoseyev: Fedoseyev, a sixth-round pick, is a safe bet to force his way into next year's top 20. With a pro-ready build and a refined defensive game, he has already shown he can handle KHL minutes. Fedoseyev's ability to make good reads in transition and use his wingspan to eliminate time and space is impressive. While he might not have a top-pair ceiling, his strong foundation bodes well for the future.
Brody Pepoy: Pepoy, Toronto's final selection in the 2026 draft, brings energy to every shift. His pace, whether on the forecheck, rush, or attacking the net, is infectious. With 16 goals and 13 assists in the OHL, Pepoy's production could reach new heights if his hands and brain catch up to his feet. Late-round picks should always be hunting for players with defining traits, and Pepoy's disruptive style of play could translate to a bottom-six role.
In my opinion, these players, though not in the top 20, are worth keeping an eye on. Their journeys are a testament to the Leafs' draft strategy and the organization's commitment to developing talent. As the season unfolds, I'll be curious to see how these players progress and whether they can make their mark in the NHL. The Leafs' prospect pipeline is deep, and these players are a part of that exciting future.
