Everybody knows that the Leafs have not been known for their drafting skills in the past. They've not only traded many of their first round picks, but they've also drafted players who weren't as good as expected. However, the Leafs may have found a gem. In the 2012 NHL Entry Draft, the Leafs used their 6th round pick at 156th overall to select winger Connor Brown from the Erie Otters of the OHL. Now what makes Brown a potential gem, you may ask? Let's take a look.
In his draft year and first year with the Erie Otters, Brown recorded 53 points in 68 games. Not bad, right? In the following year, the Etobicoke, Ontario native recorded 69 points in 63 games. As you can see, his production was rising. However, nothing compares to his final season with the Otters. Brown stepped up and had an unbelievable year, recording 128 points in 68 games. Lots of Leafs fans were excited about this, but other also claimed it was only because he was playing alongside of 2015 draft phenom Connor McDavid. Brown went on to prove the doubters wrong. In his first season with the Leafs affiliate, the Toronto Marlies, Brown led the team in scoring with 61 points in 76 games, ultimately winning the AHL rookie scoring title. He's not overly tall, standing at 5'11 and 170lbs, but he has a good shot and is a great offensive player in general.
POSSIBLE NHL ROLE: TOP SIX SNIPER
Connor Brown has all the tools to become a top six threat in the NHL. He's very strong offensively, and shows no signs of slowing down. If he develops right under new head coach Sheldon Keefe, then you should see him in a Leafs uniform within the next couple of years.
PROSPECT GRADE: A-
Although I say the Leafs may have found a potential gem in the 2012 draft, you can't say they got a steal just yet considering he hasn't played any NHL games yet. However, given his production at the pro level and junior level, this grade seems right for Brown.
What do you think of Brown, Leafs fans? Should he be ranked lower or higher, or is #4 good for him? Weigh in below.
Thanks for reading.
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