Toronto Maple Leafs Sign Defenceman Blake Smith to Entry-Level Contract…..

The Toronto Maple Leafs have added promising young talent to their blue line, officially signing defenceman **Blake Smith** to a three-year, entry-level contract. The move was announced by the club Friday morning, generating buzz among fans and analysts as the team continues to shape its roster for the future.

Smith, 20, has been making waves in the junior hockey circuit with his combination of physical presence, skating ability, and defensive instincts. Standing 6-foot-3 and weighing 205 pounds, the right-shot defenceman has been a standout with the Western Hockey League’s (WHL) *Everett Silvertips*, where he posted **10 goals and 34 assists for 44 points** in 62 games this season. His strong two-way play, coupled with a growing offensive edge, caught the attention of several NHL scouts throughout the year.

Originally selected by the Maple Leafs in the **third round (87th overall) of the 2023 NHL Draft**, Smith has shown steady progression in his game over the past two seasons. His improved confidence with the puck and leadership on and off the ice helped earn him alternate captain honors in Everett this past season.

In a statement, Maple Leafs General Manager Brad Treliving praised Smith’s development and commitment to growth.

> “Blake has demonstrated tremendous maturity and work ethic in his development,” said Treliving. “He brings a strong physical element to the back end, has improved significantly in his puck-moving skills, and plays with the kind of competitiveness we value in Toronto. We’re excited to see him take the next steps in our organization.”

Smith is expected to join the **Toronto Marlies**, the Leafs’ AHL affiliate, for the remainder of their season and potential playoff run, giving him a chance to acclimate to the professional level before pushing for a roster spot with the big club in the future. Though the Leafs’ defensive depth is already competitive, the addition of Smith adds a valuable option for seasons to come—especially with several veterans on expiring contracts.

The Maple Leafs’ blue line has been an area of focus in recent years, with the organization looking to balance skill, size, and physicality. Smith’s arrival continues that trend, and the team hopes his development mirrors that of recent successful young defenders like Timothy Liljegren and Topi Niemelä.

Blake Smith spoke briefly to reporters via Zoom following the announcement, expressing gratitude and excitement for the opportunity.

> “It’s an incredible feeling to sign with an organization like Toronto,” said Smith. “I’ve worked hard for this moment, and I’m looking forward to learning from the guys in the system and doing whatever I can to help the team. Playing at the professional level has always been my dream, and now it’s about putting in the work to make an impact.”

As the Leafs look to build a sustainable, competitive core, locking in young talent like Smith is a step in the right direction. While expectations will be tempered as he adjusts to the speed and demands of pro hockey, there is no doubt that Blake Smith is a name to watch in Toronto’s defensive pipeline over the next few years.

**Contract Details:**

– Length: 3 years

– Type: Entry-Level

– Cap hit: TBD based on bonuses and performance clauses

– Eligible for NHL, AHL assignment

Smith will report to Toronto in the coming days for physicals and onboarding before joining the Marlies’ lineup. His first AHL appearance could come as soon as this weekend, depending on coaching decisions.

**About Blake Smith:**

– Birth