The Toronto Maple Leafs have re-signed restricted free agent (RFA) Alex Steeves to a one-year, two-way contract. This agreement allows Steeves to play for both the NHL team and its AHL affiliate, giving the Maple Leafs flexibility in managing their roster. The deal reflects the organization’s interest in retaining Steeves, a promising forward who has shown potential in his time with the team.
As of the 2023-2024 season, Alex Steeves has primarily played in the AHL with the Toronto Marlies, the Toronto Maple Leafs’ AHL affiliate, while also appearing in some NHL games.
Here are some key stats:
**NHL Stats:**
– **Games Played:** 4
– **Goals:** 0
– **Assists:** 0
– **Points:** 0
– **Penalty Minutes:** 2
**AHL Stats with Toronto Marlies:**
– **Games Played:** 129
– **Goals:** 44
– **Assists:** 57
– **Points:** 101
– **Penalty Minutes:** 70
Steeves is known for his offensive abilities and has been a consistent contributor at the AHL level. He is considered a promising prospect within the Maple Leafs’ organization.
Alex Steeves is viewed as a promising prospect within the Toronto Maple Leafs organization, with potential to become a solid NHL contributor. Here’s a breakdown of his potential:
### **Offensive Skills**
Steeves has demonstrated strong offensive capabilities, particularly in the AHL with the Toronto Marlies. He has a good shot, playmaking ability, and a strong hockey IQ, which allows him to find scoring opportunities and contribute to his team’s offense. His point production at the AHL level suggests that he could bring similar skills to the NHL if he continues to develop.
### **Versatility**
One of Steeves’ key attributes is his versatility. He can play both center and wing, making him a flexible option for the Maple Leafs. This versatility is valuable in today’s NHL, where teams often need players who can fill multiple roles due to injuries or other roster changes.
### **Skating and Work Ethic**
Steeves is known for his strong work ethic and skating ability. He’s a high-energy player who competes hard every shift. His skating is above average, allowing him to keep up with the pace of the NHL game. These qualities make him a candidate for a bottom-six role, where he can use his speed and tenacity to be effective on both ends of the ice.
### **Defensive Responsibility**
In addition to his offensive skills, Steeves has shown a commitment to improving his defensive game. This two-way ability is important for a player aiming to carve out a role in the NHL, particularly in a depth position. Coaches value players who are responsible in their own zone and can be trusted in different situations.
### **NHL Role Potential**
Given his skill set, Steeves projects as a player who could develop into a reliable middle-six forward in the NHL. He has the potential to contribute offensively, especially in a secondary scoring role, while also providing value on the penalty kill or in defensive situations. If he continues to progress, he could become a valuable depth player for the Maple Leafs, capable of stepping up when needed due to injuries or lineup changes.
### **Development Path**
Steeves’ development will largely depend on his ability to translate his AHL success to the NHL level. Continued improvement in his consistency, physicality, and adaptability to the faster, more physical NHL game will be crucial. If he can do this, he has a good chance of becoming a regular in the Maple Leafs’ lineup.
In summary, Alex Steeves has the potential to be a versatile, two-way forward in the NHL, capable of contributing both offensively and defensively. While he may start in a depth role, there is potential for him to grow into a more significant role with continued development.