Episode
Jay McKee on Ben Danford's NHL Timeline & the Leafs' Coaching Search
- Podcast
- Leafs Morning Take
- Published
- Jun 12, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 901
- Processing state
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- https://shows.acast.com/leafs-morning-take/episodes/jay-mckee-on-ben-danfords-nhl-timeline-the-leafs-coaching-se
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Summary
Nick Alberga is joined by newly appointed Hamilton Hammers head coach Jay McKee. First, McKee discusses his decision to leave the OHL's Brantford Bulldogs for the AHL, why the opportunity in Hamilton was too good to pass up, and how difficult it was to move on from Brantford. He also talks about his long-term goal of coaching in the NHL and the differences between coaching junior players and professionals. Additionally, McKee shares his thoughts on Leafs prospect Ben Danford, whom he coached in Brantford. He raves about Danford's character, hockey IQ, and defensive instincts, projecting him as a future shutdown defenseman capable of matching up against the NHL's best players. McKee compares Danford's game to Chris Tanev and Gustav Forsling, while admitting the young blueliner reminds him of himself as a player. He also weighs in on how close Danford is to making the jump to the NHL. Finally, McKee discusses Toronto's ongoing coaching search and the growing trend of NHL teams looking to the minor leagues for coaching talent, including the possibility of Joe Pavelski entering the mix. 🚨 Subscribe to Leafs Nation on Youtube!🚨 ➡️ / @theleafsnation401 SHOUTOUT TO OUR SPONSORS!! 👍🏼Powered by @bet365. Whatever the moment, it's Never Ordinary at bet365. Download the App today and use promo code NATION. http://www.bet365.ca/ Gambling can be addictive, please play responsibly. Eligible iGames conducted and managed by iGO are only available to those physically present in the Province of Ontario. 19+. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.