Maple Leafs Sign Prince George Forward Borya Valis to Entry-Level Contract
The Toronto Maple Leafs have officially signed forward Borya Valis to an entry-level contract, adding another promising young talent to their ever-growing prospect pool. Valis, who has spent the past few seasons with the Prince George Cougars in the Western Hockey League (WHL), has impressed both scouts and team management with his offensive upside and well-rounded game.
Valis, a 20-year-old forward from the Czech Republic, was drafted by the Leafs in the 2023 NHL Draft, selected in the fourth round with the 115th overall pick. His performance in the WHL has been a key factor in his development, and the signing marks a significant step in his journey to the NHL.
Over the past few seasons with Prince George, Valis has consistently been one of the team’s top performers. Known for his speed, high hockey IQ, and playmaking abilities, the 6-foot, 190-pound winger has been a dynamic presence on the ice. In addition to his scoring touch, Valis also brings a physical edge to his game, using his size and strength to win battles along the boards and create space for his teammates. This combination of skills makes him a well-rounded forward who is capable of contributing in multiple facets of the game.
Valis had a breakout season in 2023-24, posting impressive numbers in both goals and assists, further cementing his status as one of the WHL’s top forwards. His consistency and leadership qualities were also evident, with Valis playing a key role in the Cougars’ success. His ability to adapt to different roles and responsibilities has impressed Maple Leafs’ management, who see him as a versatile player with high potential.
“We are excited to welcome Borya to the Maple Leafs organization,” said Kyle Dubas, the Leafs’ general manager. “Borya has demonstrated a strong work ethic and skillset over the past few years, and we believe he has the potential to be an impactful player for us in the future.”
With the signing of Valis, the Maple Leafs continue to build for the future, focusing on young players with high upside who can contribute both now and in the years to come. While Valis will likely spend time with the Toronto Marlies in the AHL to continue his development, the signing reflects the team’s commitment to nurturing its youth talent and developing a deep, sustainable roster.
As Valis transitions to professional hockey in North America, the Leafs are excited about the impact he could have on their future. Fans can look forward to watching his progression as he works his way toward potentially making an impact on the NHL roster in the coming seasons.
