League: NHL Sport: Hockey Country: United States Category: Transactions

Maple Leafs see bright future with prospect Alexander Bilecki

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 16, 2026, 6:04 AM

Last updated Sep 16, 2026

Maple Leafs see bright future with prospect Alexander Bilecki

Summary

The Toronto Maple Leafs selected defenseman Alexander Bilecki with the 60th pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. Bilecki, 18, will return to the Ontario Hockey League this season to play for the Kitchener Rangers, anticipated to serve as their top defenseman. Kitchener's general manager noted Bilecki's potential for growth, while the head coach of the Toronto Marlies expressed enthusiasm about his performance in camp. The Maple Leafs are set to begin their preseason with a split-squad game against the Montreal Canadiens on September 19.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Alexander Bilecki drafted 60th overall by the Maple Leafs.
•Bilecki returns to Kitchener Rangers as anticipated No. 1 defenseman.
•Kitchener GM praises Bilecki's growth potential.
•Maple Leafs play four preseason games starting September 19.
•Split-squad game against Canadiens on September 19.

Latest Updates

6:04 AMYahoo Sports — Maple Leafs Handed Exciting Take on Generational Talent

What they're saying

"
The Toronto Maple Leafs received an exciting take on one of their most interesting prospects for the future.The Toronto franchise drafted defenseman Alexander Bilecki with the No. 60 pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, and the young blue liner is already generating some excitement within the organization.This season, the 18-year-old will return to the Ontario […] The post Maple Leafs Handed Exciting Take on Generational Talent appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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