Maple Leafs select James “JD” Greenway 72nd overall

The Toronto Maple Leafs dipped into the US National Development Program for the third time in this draft, selecting defenceman J.D. Greenaway with their second third-round pick (72nd overall).

Greenway was all over the place in various mock drafts; ranked anywhere between 37th (ISS) and 139th (Future Considerations). The 18-year-old is described as a mobile defenceman with a lot of raw skill, but an ability to be physically imposing when he needs to. That should be of no shock , given his 6’4, 205 pound frame.

The Leafs are likely looking at Greenway in the same way that they’re looking at Joseph Woll; a long-term project. After using their first three picks on players that have played in European men’s leagues, it’s interesting to see Toronto go the opposite route now. It also means that, Matthews aside, they won’t have to worry about to signing them to ELC’s for quite some time, ensuring Toronto doesn’t spill over the 50 contact limit.