The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly expressing significant interest in undrafted NCAA free agent Luke Haymes, a standout center from Dartmouth College. At 21 years old, Haymes has garnered attention for his impressive performance in collegiate hockey, positioning himself as a promising prospect for NHL teams.
Collegiate Career and Performance
Haymes, an Ottawa native, is currently in his third season with Dartmouth College’s men’s ice hockey team. Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 203 pounds, he has demonstrated consistent offensive prowess throughout his tenure. In his freshman year (2022-23), Haymes recorded 11 goals and 5 assists, totaling 16 points over 30 games. He elevated his performance in the sophomore season (2023-24), leading the team with 18 goals and 18 assists, amassing 36 points in 31 games. This season (2024-25), he has continued his strong showing with 7 goals and 3 assists in 12 games.
Early Development and Background
Before his collegiate career, Haymes honed his skills with the Cowichan Valley Capitals in the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL). During the 2021-22 season, he played 52 games, achieving 22 goals and 27 assists, and earning the team’s Rookie of the Year honor. His foundational years were spent at Ridley College, where he graduated before advancing to junior hockey.
NHL Interest and Potential
The Maple Leafs’ interest in Haymes is not unprecedented. He attended Toronto’s development camp in July 2023, providing the organization with an opportunity to assess his skills and potential fit within their system. Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman recently highlighted that multiple NHL teams, including Toronto and the Ottawa Senators, are keen on engaging with Haymes once his NCAA season concludes.
Haymes’ combination of size, skill, and consistent offensive output makes him an attractive candidate for NHL teams seeking to bolster their forward depth. His experience at the Maple Leafs’ development camp suggests a level of familiarity and comfort with the organization’s culture and expectations, potentially facilitating a smoother transition should he sign with Toronto.
Looking Ahead
As the NCAA season progresses, Haymes’ performance will continue to be closely monitored by NHL scouts and executives. His ability to maintain his scoring pace and demonstrate leadership on the ice will be critical factors in determining his readiness for the professional level. For the Maple Leafs, securing a promising talent like Haymes could provide valuable depth and future potential without the expenditure of draft capital.
In conclusion, Luke Haymes stands out as a notable NCAA free agent, drawing considerable interest from the Toronto Maple Leafs and other NHL franchises. His impressive track record at Dartmouth College, combined with his physical attributes and prior exposure to NHL development environments, positions him as a compelling prospect in the upcoming free-agent market.
