According to many around the hockey world, Mark Leach and the Maple Leafs came away with one of the strongest drafts in the NHL.

In one weekend, Toronto went from having one of the league’s thinnest prospect pools to one that could legitimately be considered among the NHL’s top 10.

That’s where the conversation started on the Monday edition of Leafs Morning Take as we inch closer to the start of free agency. With July 1 fast approaching, the Maple Leafs roster could look drastically different by Wednesday afternoon.

To kick things off, we discussed Gavin McKenna, Toronto’s encouraging draft class, and where the franchise goes from here. In total, the Leafs made 10 selections—balanced across the board with four forwards, four defencemen, and two goaltenders. Moving forward, it will be interesting to track how each prospect develops, especially with development camp set to get underway this week. Naturally, we also dove into free agency and what John Chayka may have in store next. One intriguing name to watch is Patrick Kane, who increasingly appears likely to test the market. While he’s been linked to Toronto in the past, this time the fit could make real sense as a short-term, low-risk addition given the Leafs’ cap flexibility. We also broke down Chayka’s comments following the draft on Saturday.

Should the Maple Leafs take a big swing on Zach Werenski? We debated whether Toronto should pursue the reigning Norris Trophy winner if he becomes available. While both of us agree Werenski is an elite defenceman, we don’t believe the price—especially if it includes Matthew Knies—is worth paying. We broke down the fit, the potential trade package, and why standing pat may be the smarter play.

Meantime, Maple Leafs second-round pick Alex Bilecki stopped by to reflect on a whirlwind stretch that saw him win the Memorial Cup with Kitchener before being drafted by his hometown Leafs. The Mississauga native called it a “dream come true,” while also discussing his growing relationship with Toronto throughout the year and a recent visit that strengthened that connection. Bilecki broke down his game as a mobile, two-way defenceman who impacts all three zones, and highlighted key areas of development as he transitions to the next level. He also shared memories of growing up a Leafs fan, receiving a call from Mats Sundin on draft day, and compared his style to Shea Theodore as he looks ahead to development camp.

Lastly, the discussion turned to qualifying offers, with Matias Maccelli and Nick Robertson emerging as two names to watch closely as the deadline to file approaches.

At any rate, we’ll be back on Tuesday to preview free agency, with the Maple Leafs expected to be busy over the next few days. Speaking of which, The Fourth Period’s David Pagnotta joins us to break down everything going on around the league.

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