Maple Leafs Sign High-Scoring NCAA Player

One of the best-kept secrets in the hockey world is the potential value of NCAA free agents. Although many of these unsigned gems fail to make a significant impact, the Toronto Maple Leafs may have struck gold with their latest acquisition.

Maple Leafs Welcome Cruikshank

Grant Cruikshank, a 24-year-old senior at St. Cloud State, truly blossomed towards the end of his NCAA tenure. With an impressive 38 points in 41 games this season, Cruikshank proved himself to be a viable pro option. The Maple Leafs quickly pounced, signing him to a one-year AHL contract.

Interestingly, Cruikshank's 23 goals this season surpassed top Leafs prospect Matthew Knies' total in the same league. Although Knies, four years Cruikshank's junior, is considered a more promising prospect, this stat offers a glimpse of the potential Cruikshank brings to the Leafs organization.



Moreover, Cruikshank brings a wealth of leadership experience to the table, having served as captain of Colorado College for two seasons.

This low-risk move by the Leafs could yield significant rewards in the future. Kudos to Kyle Dubas for making it happen!

Check out Maple Leafs Insider for more - Leafs organization signs an NCAA free agent who outscored Knies this year