Maple Leafs' 1st round pick 'honoured' to sign with childhood team

Ben Danford 'blacked out' after he heard the Leafs call his name in the 2024 Entry Draft and couldn't believe his childhood team had thought of him so highly.

On Friday, he officially inked his entry level deal with the Leafs, and if the photo taken isn't enough indication as to how ecstatic the defensively gifted rookie is then his statement after signing his deal sure is.

"I am honoured to sign my first NHL contract with the Maple Leafs. Thank you to everyone who helped me along the way."

It was a question mark as to why the Leafs traded down in this year's draft, as they still had the likes of Cole Beaudoin (a 6'6 centre) or Stian Stolberg (whom the Ducks selected after swapping picks with the Leafs) but clearly they saw something in Danford and have since day one; wasting no chance to miss out on the defender.

When Danford finally takes the ice for the Leafs, whenever it may be; it could be the sign of something special in Toronto.

Previously on MapleLeafsLatest

Maple Leafs signing Hakanpaa's deal looks to have fallen through

Heave Reaves: Leafs cap woes could be solved with one simple choice

McMann in town: Leafs winger receives high praise from NHL Network

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3 AOUT \| 49 ANSWERS Maple Leafs' 1st round pick 'honoured' to sign with childhood team How long until Ben Danford makes it to the Leafs?
2 Years	33	67.3 %
3 Years	11	22.4 %
5 Years	2	4.1 %
Never	3	6.1 %
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