Maple Leafs Prospect Uses Demotion as Motivation, Breaks Impressive Marlies Record
After voicing his displeasure with his lack of opportunity, Leafs prospect Alex Steeves was returned to the Toronto Marlies and set a new franchise record.
Alex Steeves returned to the Marlies' lineup on Saturday as the Leafs continue to get healthier up front. In his return, Steeves scored his 11th goal of the season, which also coincidentally set a new franchise record with his 169th point as a Marlie.
Steeves signed a one-year extension with the Leafs in the off-season and was hopeful for more opportunity with the big club.
While the Leafs have been hampered by injuries, Steeves managed to get into just four games for the Leafs, though the likes of Fraser Minten and Nikita Grebenkin outplayed him and were given more opportunity.
During his time with the Leafs, Steeves revealed that he wants to stay in Toronto, but if more opportunities don't become available, he may look to continue his career elsewhere when he becomes a Group 6 UFA.
Steeves joined the Leafs on an entry-level deal in 2022 after completing his collegiate career at Notre Dame and has been one of the Marlies' best offensive players since joining the organization.
Unfortunately, he has managed to get into just 11 NHL games, most of which have seen him on the fourth line, where he has compiled one lone assist and lacked real opportunity to display his offensive skills that have made him so successful with the Marlies.
It will be interesting to see if Steeves will get more of an opportunity with the Leafs as they inevitably battle injuries throughout the rest of the season. If not, Steeves will continue to break records for the Marlies in the hopes of proving to another team that he deserves a shot next season.
