Jake Muzzin already making a profound impact for two Leafs defensive prospects

After missing last season thanks to a career-ending neck injury, Muzzin began his post-playing career first as a scout, but appears to have transitioned into new role as a development coach.

In his first official stint in player development, Muzzin has wasted no time being a mentor for a pair of Leafs prospects in Cade Webber and Ben Danford at Leafs Development Camp this week, with both young blueliners being very grateful for the veteran defender taking them under his wing.

When asked about being tutored by Muzzin, 2024 31st-overall selection Danford revealed that Muzzin was someone he looked up to as a kid. TSN's Mark Masters shared his comments on Twitter/X on Thursday.

Webber was acquired at the trade deadline this past season as GM Brad Treliving looked to add some bigger defensive prospects to the Leafs' prospect pool. Since being acquired and signing his entry-level contract, Webber revealed that Muzzin was one of the first Leafs he spoke with and has learned a lot from the Stanley Cup Champion, as shared by the Toronto Sun's Terry Koshan.

Webber also spoke about the type of player he wants to be and believes he is, which makes Muzzin an ideal coach for the 6'7 blueliner.

Danford will head back to junior this season, but Webber has been projected to be the seventh or eighth defenceman on the Leafs' depth chart for the upcoming season, depending on how well his training camp goes. While he likely begins in the American Hockey League, an impressive camp could result in some playing time in the NHL a little earlier than expected, especially if Jani Hakanpaa does miss any time to begin the year.

Source: Hockey DB
Cade Webber Player Profile