Maple Leafs’ first-round pick Ben Danford misses practice after suffering head injury at training camp

By Cole Shelton

Modified Sep 13, 2024 15:58 GMT

Toronto Maple Leafs first-round pick Ben Danford did not practice on Friday at rookie camp. Danford suffered an apparent head injury on Thursday, according to reporter David Alter.

Danford left the camp after he was hit by Maple Leafs rookie invitee Marshall Finnie.

Following the practice, Toronto Marlies coach John Gruden, who was handling the rookie practice, said there was no update on Danford.

“He’s being evaluated,” said John Gruden, via Toronto Sun. "I didn’t see the hit because it was in the far corner, but the guy who unfortunately hit him just said he felt bad. Hopefully he’s OK and that’s the bottom line.”

It was a big hit, and Gruden said there is a thin line between playing hard and not making dangerous hits.

“You want to make sure they’re playing hard,” Gruden said. “There’s a feeling out. You want to try and create an identity as a team, but there’s a fine line. We want to play hard, but disciplined.”

Danford was selected 31st overall in the 2024 NFL draft. The 18-year-old defenseman played in the OHL for the Oshawa Generals. He is known as a defensive defenseman, and last season, he recorded one goal and 32 assists for 33 points.

The Maple Leafs play the Montreal Canadiens rookies on Saturday and Sunday at the Bell Centre in Montreal.

Maple Leafs name Auston Matthews captain

After John Tavares relinquished the role in mid-August, the Toronto Maple Leafs named Auston Matthews their new captain.

Matthews is the face of the Maple Leafs franchise after being drafted first overall in 2016. After being named captain, Matthews said he was honored by it.

"I’m incredibly humbled to be named captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs," said Matthews, via NHL. "I’m honored to follow in John’s footsteps and continue our work in leading this team along with so many other leaders within our dressing room.

"This team, this city and our fans mean everything to me. We all embrace the history of this franchise, and we are determined to get the job done.”

Matthews recorded 69 goals and 38 assists for 107 points in 81 games last season.

The Maple Leafs will open their 2024-25 NHL season on the road on Oct. 9 against the Montreal Canadiens.