Hundley signs with Toronto Maple Leafs

March 28, 2026

2005-born alumnus Hayes Hundley has signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

The 6’3” defenseman recorded 12 points (6G, 6A) in 38 games this season as a freshman at the University of St. Thomas and earned a spot on the CCHA All-Rookie Team. Prior to that, the Upper Arlington native totaled 16 points (4G, 12A) and 74 penalty minutes in 58 games with the Fargo Force during the 2024–25 season.

From 2015–2023, Hundley was a core piece and team captain of the 2005 OBJ team. His career in the program included competing in the Quebec International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament in 2018 and representing the Mid-American District at USA Hockey’s Select 17 National Development Camp in 2023. In his final two seasons in Columbus, he scored 22 goals and totaled 82 points in 132 games at the 16U and 18U levels.

A multi-sport athlete, Hundley also starred for Upper Arlington High School lacrosse, helping lead the Golden Bears to a state championship in 2022. A two-time All-State selection, he served as team captain and was named an All-American as a senior in 2023.

The 21-year-old will join the Toronto Marlies for the remainder of the 2025–26 season on an amateur tryout before his NHL contract begins in 2026–27. He becomes the 12th member of the OBJ program to sign an NHL contract.