The Toronto Maple Leafs have picked Alexander Bilecki with the 60th overall pick of the 2026 NHL Draft. Bilecki is a left-handed, offensive defenceman from Mississauga, Ont. He’s played the last two years with the Kitchener Rangers of the OHL.
Alexander Bilecki player profile
Bilecki broke out offensively in the OHL playoffs this season, putting up 11 points in 18 games after a 29 point regular season. He’s a fantastic passer who thrives with the puck, something the Leafs are clearly prioritizing in their defence under John Chayka.
He added another three assists in four games in the Memorial Cup playoffs.
| Season | Team | League | GP | G | A | P |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023–24 | Mississauga Rebels AAA | GTHL U16 | 33 | 8 | 16 | 24 |
| 2024–25 | Kitchener Rangers | OHL | 45 | 3 | 11 | 14 |
| 2025–26 | Kitchener Rangers | OHL | 66 | 9 | 20 | 29 |
Analyzing the pick
At 6’2, Bilecki is physical enough to project into the NHL. But his real skill comes from his puck movement. This is a clear point of emphasis for the new-look Maple Leafs, who had favoured size over skill under Brad Treliving.
If anything, the pick signals a change in philosophy for the new front office, which is quite exciting.
What’s next for Bilecki
Bilecki will head back to junior next season, looking to lead the Kitchener Rangers back to the Memorial Cup. It’ll be a couple of years before he makes any impact for the big club, but his point totals next year should rise once again in the OHL.
If all goes right, Bilecki could be knocking on the door of the NHL in two to three years.
