In a significant development for both player and franchise, Brandon Buhr has signed a one-year contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs. This move comes as Buhr, a 23-year-old forward from Fort St. John, BC, transitions to the professional ranks after an impressive collegiate career.
Buhr’s immediate plans involve joining the Toronto Marlies for the remainder of the 2025-26 season on an amateur tryout. His recent performance at Union College has been noteworthy, where he posted 36 points, including 19 goals and 17 assists, in just 35 games this season.
Over his entire NCAA career, Buhr has skated in 106 games, accumulating 88 points with 49 goals and 39 assists. His shooting percentages have been consistent, hovering around 15.7% to 20.2% over his seasons, indicating a reliable scoring ability that the Maple Leafs hope to harness.
Prior to his time at Union, Buhr faced challenges at Clarkson University, where he played nine games without registering a point. However, his transition to the NCAA has been smooth, and he was recognized as a Second Team All-ECAC player for his performance in the 2024-25 season.
Buhr’s background includes three seasons in the BCHL with the Alberni Valley Bulldogs, where he demonstrated his potential by producing around a point per game. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing 205 lbs, his physical presence combined with skill makes him an intriguing prospect for the Leafs.
This signing is part of a broader strategy by the Maple Leafs to bolster their roster with young talent. Buhr is expected to be one of the top players in the ECAC for his senior season, which adds to the anticipation surrounding his future contributions to the team.
As the news breaks, initial reactions from fans and analysts alike suggest optimism about Buhr’s potential impact. The Maple Leafs have been focusing on integrating promising young players into their lineup, and Buhr’s signing aligns with this vision.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding how quickly Buhr will make his debut with the Marlies, but the excitement surrounding his arrival is palpable. The franchise is keen on developing talent, and Buhr’s journey from college hockey to the professional stage is a testament to that commitment.
