There’s just one Maple Leafs prospect still playing, and it’s the least likely of them all. Nicolas Mattinen, drafted in the 6th round of the 2016 NHL draft, will play on the blue line for the Hamilton Bulldogs in the OHL Championship series beginning tonight.
The Bulldogs have advanced to the final round of the playoffs for the first time since moving from Belleville in 2015, defeating the Ottawa 67’s, Niagara IceDogs, and Kingston Frontenacs in five games each. The Bulldogs have been off since April 26th, glancing at their watches, tapping their foot, waiting for the Soo Greyhounds to finally beat the Kitchener Rangers in the Western Conference Final.