Maple Leafs Prospects Moldenhauer and Haymes Thriving in Development Paths
As part of ongoing coverage of the Toronto Maple Leafs organization, we are closely monitoring the progress of the club's prospects across various hockey landscapes. This week, we focus on two promising forwards: Nick Moldenhauer of the University of Michigan Wolverines and Luke Haymes of the Toronto Marlies, both of whom are demonstrating impressive growth in their respective environments.
Nick Moldenhauer: Soaking Up NHL Wisdom at Michigan
Nick Moldenhauer, a native of Mississauga and a third-round pick by the Leafs in 2022, has leveraged a summer of intensive training at the Leafs' Ford Performance Centre to elevate his game. The 21-year-old forward has become a key contributor for the Michigan Wolverines, one of the top-ranked teams in NCAA men's hockey during the 2025-26 season, as they pursue a national championship.
Through 30 games, Moldenhauer has tallied 12 goals and 13 assists for 25 points, playing a consistent role in Michigan's impressive 24-5-1 record. He attributes much of his success to the experience gained at the Leafs' training facility, where he observed veteran players like Morgan Rielly and Scott Laughton.
"It's a no-brainer with how much it has helped me being around guys that are doing what you want to do and have got to that point," Moldenhauer explained in a phone interview. "Just seeing their work ethic and how contagious that is has definitely helped me. It's something I have brought here to the team at Michigan."
Moldenhauer emphasized his focus on continuous improvement, stating, "I'm super-happy with where my game is right now, but I never want to get complacent. I always try to stay hungry. That has been one of the biggest reasons why I think I'm in a good spot right now." He highlighted his enhanced poise on the ice and defensive development as key areas of progress, which he believes will be crucial at the professional level.
Currently, Moldenhauer is not preoccupied with securing a contract with the Leafs. Instead, his attention is firmly on helping Michigan capture its first NCAA title since 1998. "I believe we have the group to do it this year," he said confidently. "We're looking forward to finishing the regular season as best we can and gearing up for playoffs and bringing home a championship."
Luke Haymes: Adapting to the Pro Grind with the Marlies
Meanwhile, Luke Haymes, a 22-year-old forward, is navigating his first full professional season with the Toronto Marlies in the American Hockey League. After playing three years at Dartmouth College, where he never exceeded 31 games in a season, Haymes has already reached the 45-game mark, demonstrating resilience and adaptability.
Haymes recently scored his fourth goal in five games, bringing his total to nine for the 2025-26 season. He acknowledged the significant adjustment from college hockey, noting, "It has been a huge change from college, going from 30 games for the whole season to 45 and we're still in mid-February." To cope with the increased demands, he focused on cardio work during the offseason to prepare both physically and mentally for the longer schedule.
"The first half was slow and there were a lot of mistakes, but I think I've learned," Haymes reflected. He has improved his understanding of the game, particularly in areas like forechecking and decision-making. "Knowing where the puck's going, it's a lot different than college, where guys aren't as smart as here, and the puck moves slower. Being in front of the puck and knowing the next play before it happens, I think I've done a good job of learning that."
Marlies coach John Gruden has noticed Haymes' upward trajectory. "He continues to trend upward," Gruden said. "He's getting confident. Maybe it's time for us to give him a little bit more ice time now. He's heading in the right direction."
Looking Ahead
Both Moldenhauer and Haymes exemplify the dedication and development required to advance in professional hockey. Moldenhauer's collegiate success and exposure to NHL veterans are shaping him into a well-rounded player, while Haymes' adaptation to the pro game highlights his growth and potential. As the Leafs continue to nurture their pipeline, these prospects represent promising futures for the organization, with their current performances offering encouraging signs for Toronto's hockey future.
