Maple Leafs trade for defensive prospect

The Maple Leafs have acquired the signing rights to defense prospect Cade Webber from the Hurricanes in exchange for a 2026 sixth-round pick, the team announced.

Webber, 23, is in his final season of collegiate play at Boston University, where he’s an alternate captain. A fourth-round pick of the Hurricanes in 2019, Webber has just one goal throughout his 115 collegiate appearances and was unlikely to sign an entry-level contract with the Hurricanes this summer.

Two facts about Webber carry appeal: his height and weight. Standing at 6-foot-7 and 210 pounds, he’s one of the largest players in college hockey and does carry some legitimate defensive upside if he can avoid dragging everyone else down offensively at the NHL level. The New York native does have good breakout and transition instincts but is rarely a factor once his team is established in the offensive zone. The Maple Leafs have until August 15 to sign him before he becomes a free agent and he’ll likely suit up with AHL Toronto or ECHL Newfoundland next season if he inks a deal.

In 30 games with the number-two ranked BU this year, Webber has six assists, 28 PIMs and a +15 rating that’s tied for fifth on the team. He’s commonly anchored a shutdown second pairing alongside team captain and Devils prospect Case McCarthy, who has done well in their role.