Toronto Maple Leafs: 4 Draft Targets – April Update
By Austin Owens
K’Andre Miller, Defence, USNTDP (USHL)
With the Toronto Maple Leafs likely having a late first, Miller is a player the team could take a good look at as a project pick to build over the next few years.
In terms of prospects with the Leafs, it’s always fun to think of what their skating will be like in the future after spending time with Barb Underhill. With Miller, a converted forward, there’s no concern about speed or skating. In fact, it’s an asset for the defender as he flies up the ice to help create offence and get back defensively.
Here’s a quick scouting report from Sam Cosentino of Sportsnet on Miller:
"“Still viewed as raw, but talented. There is potential to add weight and strength to an already solid frame. His skill set isn’t always on display, but it is present and as he grows into his body, Miller could turn into a sneaky late first-round pick”"
With the USNTDP this season in the USHL, Miller has played alongside fellow first-round prospects in Quinn Hughes, Bode Wilde and Mattias Samuelsson.
He was arguably the team’s best defenceman at the U-18 5 Nations Tournament. Although he only registered a goal and an assist in four games, the defender proved his abilities going head-to-head against some of the best competition this draft has to offer.
In the USHL, Miller had 16 points in 22 games while only registering six penalty minutes. He played in 50 games this season for the U.S. Development Program. He had seven goals and 24 points over a larger scale of games. Over those games, he had 22 penalty minutes.
More from Toronto Maple Leafs
- Maple Leafs Rumours: Half of NHL teams interested in Ilya Mikheyev
- Toronto Maple Leafs: How to address the goaltender position
- Leafs reward Timothy Liljegren with extension after breakout season
- Maple Leafs: Jack Campbell situation becoming increasingly uncertain
- Jason Spezza retires, joins Toronto Maple Leafs front office
I’ve said all season the Leafs need one of two things: a centre or a defenceman. They have some of the best wing depth in the NHL and now, a surprising amount of depth in the crease.
The Leafs have some big bodies in their system on the back end. Most project to be defensive-defenceman if they make it to the pros. Miller would be a contributor at both ends with his blend of talent.
He’s attending the University of Wisconsin next year, where he will likely play with 2016 Leafs’ third-rounder J.D. Greenway.
With his commitment to the NCAA, the Toronto Maple Leafs would be able to give him a few years to come into his own as a defender at one of the better hockey programs in college. Sounds like a good plan for both parties.
Next: How the Leafs can sign John Tavares this summer
Of the four players mentioned, who would you most like to see the Toronto Maple Leafs pick, and why? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.