“Is Luke Haymes the Maple Leafs’ Missing Piece? Former NCAA Star Ignites Hype After Marlies Debut”
Toronto, ON — Could the future of the Toronto Maple Leafs already be lacing up for the Marlies? That’s the growing sentiment among fans and insiders after the recent signing and promising debut of Luke Haymes, a standout center from Dartmouth College who has quickly become one of the most talked-about young names in the Leafs organization.
The 21-year-old Ottawa native signed a two-year contract with the Maple Leafs in March 2025, fresh off a strong collegiate campaign that was interrupted—but not defined—by injury. Despite missing 11 games during the 2024-25 NCAA season, Haymes still finished second in goals for Dartmouth, tallying 12 goals and 6 assists in 22 games. His gritty, high-IQ performances helped lift the Big Green to an 18-13-2 record and a spirited run to the ECAC Hockey semifinals.
In three years with Dartmouth, Haymes posted an impressive 41 goals and 70 points in 83 games, earning recognition on the NCAA All-Ivy League First Team and the ECAC First All-Star Team during his sophomore year. Those accolades made him one of the top undrafted free agents in college hockey—drawing interest from NHL teams like the Tampa Bay Lightning and New York Rangers. But in the end, Haymes chose to bring his talents home to Ontario.
Toronto fans got their first taste of what Haymes brings to the table when he joined the AHL’s Toronto Marlies on an amateur tryout to finish the 2024-25 season. Early signs have been encouraging. Though his minutes have been limited—especially on special teams—Haymes has already shown glimpses of the player he could become. Marlies head coach John Gruden commended the young center’s directness and willingness to engage physically in scoring areas.
“He plays with an edge, he’s smart with the puck, and he’s not afraid to get inside,” Gruden said. “That’s exactly what you want to see in a kid stepping into the pros for the first time.”
Haymes’ game is marked by a lethal shot, keen offensive instincts, and a strong two-way presence—traits that suggest he could eventually carve out a role in Toronto’s top six. His commitment to battling along the boards and playing a responsible defensive game further underlines his NHL potential.
The immediate plan is for Haymes to remain with the Marlies for the rest of the season, adjusting to the pro game’s pace and physicality. While he’ll be given a chance to make a splash at the Maple Leafs’ 2025 training camp, Toronto’s front office is expected to take a patient approach with his development, allowing him time in the AHL to fully round out his game.
Still, with Toronto seeking long-term answers at center, Haymes may be more than just a depth addition. If his development continues on its current trajectory, the Leafs may have uncovered a hidden gem capable of making a major impact in the coming years.
For now, the excitement surrounding Luke Haymes is real—and well-earned. From NCAA standout to Maple Leafs hopeful, his journey is just beginning, but it already feels like a story worth watching closely.
