Craig Berube Makes His Feelings on Leafs Rookie Ben Danford's Game Ubundantly Clear

The Toronto Maple Leafs have some big decision incoming following the conclusion of the 2025-26 pre-season, including what the plan will be for 2024 1st round pick Ben Danford and 2023 1st round pick Easton Cowan.

While Cowan appears to be NHL-ready in the eyes of Craig Berube, there is a legitimate conversation to be had as to whether the best place to start him is in the NHL, where he'll play on the 4th line, or the AHL, where he'll play more minutes in all situations.

When it comes to Danford, it's almost a foregone conclusion that the 19-year-old is heading back to the OHL for his final year of junior hockey.

This weekend, Berube was asked directly about Danford and what he thinks of the rookie defenseman. Among the messages Berube wished to send was that he has a bright future.

Berube does think there's some room for improvement when it comes to the offensive side of Danford's game, but he certainly sees the potential there for Danford to produce a little more in the offensive zone.

With the Leafs having to finalize their roster in the coming days, we're likely to see Danford assigned to his junior squad, the Oshawa Generals either today or tomorrow. Of course, there is still the long-shot possibility that Danford does stick around for a brief NHL trial before being sent down.

There has also been some speculation that perhaps Danford may be traded by the Generals at some point this season as Oshawa may be about to embark upon a bit of a rebuild.