Maple Leafs sign Brandon Buhr to an ELC

The Leafs have signed forward Brandon Buhr to a one-year contract beginning in the 2026-27 season. He'll be on the Marlies this year on an ATO, and his NHL contract covers next season. ELC times are set by the player's age.

Buhr is about to turn 24 this summer, and is 6'2" and 205 lbs.

Buhr, 23, has posted 36 points (19 goals, 17 assists) in 35 games with Union College (NCAA). The Fort St. John, BC native has skated in 106 career NCAA games with Union, registering 88 points (49 goals, 39 assists). Prior to joining Union, the 6’2, 208-pound forward skated in nine games with Clarkson University.

Elite Prospects covered him in their guide:

Skating is Buhr's biggest advantage over the NCAA competition – his strides and crossovers are separating. He plays a fast, direct game with some inside cuts and flashy moves mixed in, all emphasizing getting to the net. A quick-release wrister is his most dangerous weapon, and the playmaking flashes are impressive, as he creatively connects with teammates through layers.

At the professional level, Buhr's always-in-motion off-puck game and physicality will become even more valuable. He's a battler with great timing around the net, in particular. He will have to develop his defensive game more to battle for an NHL role, but that seems well within the realm of possibility. Athletes with these tools are always in demand, and often become impactful bottom-six forwards.

His path through hockey has been unusual:

Free Agents and Contracts Maple Leafs Prospects