Maple Leafs sign Hayes Hundley to three-year entry-level NHL contract
The Toronto Maple Leafs have secured defenceman Hayes Hundley with a three-year, entry-level contract. The deal begins in the 2026-27 season, marking the next step in his rising hockey career. Before then, he will join the Toronto Marlies in the AHL for the remainder of the current campaign. Hundley, a 6'3, 210-pound right-handed defenceman from Upper Arlington, Ohio, has taken an unconventional path to professional hockey. Unlike many prospects, he never played for a Canadian junior or university team. Instead, his journey included a season with the Johnstown Tomahawks in the NAHL (Tier II juniors) during 2023-24, followed by a move to the Fargo Force in the USHL.
In 2024-25, he recorded 16 points and 74 penalty minutes over 58 regular-season games with the Force. The following year, he joined St. Thomas University in the NCAA, where he tallied 12 points in 38 games. His strong performance earned him a spot on the 2025-26 CCHA All-Rookie Team. Before his NHL contract kicks in, Hundley will gain professional experience with the Marlies on an amateur tryout. This opportunity allows him to adapt to the AHL's pace ahead of his official Maple Leafs debut.
Hundley's contract with Toronto begins in 2026-27, giving him time to develop in the AHL first. His physical presence and offensive contributions at lower levels suggest potential for growth in the Maple Leafs' system. The Marlies will provide a key testing ground before his NHL transition.
