Leafs Prospect Ben Danford Decimates Saginaw Forward in Intense 3rd Period Scrap
Maple Leafs prospect Ben Danford allowed his emotions to get the best of him in a blowout loss to Saginaw, delivering a hard hit and a severe beat down seconds apart.
The start of Ben Danford's tenure with the Leafs organization began on a troubling note when the top defensive prospect suffered a concussion ahead of the 2024 Prospects Showcase. The injury sidelined Danford throughout the entirety of Maple Leafs training camp.
Upon being returned to Oshawa in the OHL, Danford was named captain of the Generals. He has led his team with pride this season, and while his point totals may not be as impressive as some might have expected, his level of physicality and intensity has increased, as was the case over the weekend.
First, Danford landed a highlight reel hit in Oshawa's tilt with the London Knights on Saturday. However, it was his fight against Jacob Cloutier on Sunday that was the real spectacle.
After taking a run at one of Cloutier's teammates while down 6-1 to Saginaw, Danford was immediately challenged by Cloutier to a fight. As the pair dropped their gloves, it quickly became apparent that Cloutier was trying to punch above his weight class.
Danford clipped Cloutier immediately, knocking out his mouthpiece with the first swing. As the fists continued to fly, Danford left Cloutier battered and bruised, with blood covering his visor as the two were pulled apart by the officials. The video of the chaotic turn of events can be seen here.
Danford may still be a couple of years away from being NHL-ready yet, but with some extra time to add strength and muscle to his already imposing frame, he may be even more of a menace by the time he finally suits up for the Leafs.
