Belle is another one of those low-event players with a style served for a bottom-six. His physicality is the bedrock of his game, as he is a buzzsaw in the offensive zone and creates space for his linemates. He loves to push the play and get in on the rush. Where the Maple Leafs have lacked projectable, yet low-skill, attributes in their system, Belle continues the trend of replenishing that mould of player and should compete for a bottom-six spot in the next few seasons if he shows improvements in his puck handling and skating.

Selected at one hundred and thirty-seventh overall, William Belle is now a member of the Toronto Maple Leafs.

June 2025Players with Belle’s profile don’t grow on trees. The hulking 6-4 winger is a monster on the forecheck, punishing opponents with violent checks. He plays an impactful, high-motor, north-south style of hockey that fits the mold of an effective bottom-six skater. To make it to the next level, Belle needs to improve his skating stride and hone his puck skills, but with good development, he’s a great bet to make the NHL one day. Anni Karvinen