Toronto Maple Leafs Select Sean Durzi 52nd Overall
The Leafs have used their second-round pick to select an overage defenceman from Owen Sound.
The Toronto Maple Leafs have selected Sean Durzi with the 52nd overall pick in the 2018 NHL Entry Draft. Durzi is a right-shooting defenceman who scored at a strong clip in the Ontario Hockey League this year. He was born in October of 1998, so he is further along in his development path than majority of prospects in this class.
The Leafs originally acquired this pick in a trade that sent Roman Polak and Nick Spaling to San Jose in 2016. Durzi joins left-shooting defenceman Rasmus Sandin as one of Toronto’s top picks this year, and you can read my profile of Sandin here.
Despite being an overage player, Durzi ranked 50th on my final rankings:
“He finished second among OHL defenders in points per game this season, trailing only Evan Bouchard. Although he was passed over in last year’s draft, he should be a lock to be selected this time around, as proven to be an above average puck mover. Durzi is 6’0”, and he offers some potential if he can get stronger and round out his defensive game.”
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Sean Durzi attended Leafs development camp last summer. Parents are big Leaf fans.
— Jonas Siegel (@jonassiegel) June 23, 2018
Scout on Durzi: "Late bloomer that was past over during last year’s NHL draft that will NOT happen again this year. Runs the PP - good offensive instincts. Makes a good first pass out of his zone and puts his outlets on the tape and on time - has quick feet and good mobility.”
— Dhiren Mahiban (@dcmahiban) June 23, 2018
DT: I know that Sean Durzi (21) has already been through a Draft but this kid made the biggest strides this year of ANY player in the Draft. His skill and offensive ability will fit in perfect in the new NHL & although he won’t go until Saturday, he is a blue chip prospect.
— NA Central Scouting (@MarkSeidel) June 18, 2018