In the ongoing coverage of Toronto Maple Leafs prospects, the spotlight turns to centre Tyler Hopkins, whose recent move to the Guelph Storm has set the stage for a unique hometown opportunity. The Leafs' third-round selection (86th overall) in the 2025 NHL Draft is now focused on helping his new—and familiar—team host the prestigious Memorial Cup in 2027.
A Homecoming with a Major Goal
Acquired by the Guelph Storm from the Kingston Frontenacs in a trade on December 27, Hopkins is settling into his surroundings near Campbellville, just a short distance from Guelph. The trade presented a compelling personal and professional draw. "It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," Hopkins stated in a recent phone interview. "To be able to compete in the Memorial Cup in my hometown... it was something that was a no-brainer."
Since the trade, Hopkins has recorded four points in seven games while managing the final stages of recovery from a lingering wrist injury. The 18-year-old, who turns 19 on January 23, had tallied 12 goals and 13 assists for 25 points in 29 games with Kingston this season before the move.
Commitment to the Path and Leafs' Development Plan
A key part of the trade discussions involved Hopkins' commitment to the Ontario Hockey League route. Storm general manager George Burnett sought and received assurance that Hopkins would not depart for the NCAA, specifically the University of Michigan. "We're very comfortable that he is fully committed," Burnett said, emphasizing the unique chance to play for a Memorial Cup at home.
Hopkins confirmed that the Leafs' organization supported the move to Guelph as beneficial for his development. "I know the Leafs were pretty happy with the opportunity... When you have the Leafs thinking it was probably best for my development, I'm happy with what I decided," he explained.
Described as a crafty, defensively responsible player with speed, Hopkins embodies the modern two-way centre. He impressed at the Leafs' summer development camp and earned a look at the main camp in September following a 51-point season (20 goals, 31 assists) in 67 games with Kingston in 2024-25.
Building Towards 2027
Currently, the Storm sits seventh in the OHL's Eastern Conference, tied with the Owen Sound Attack at 40 points. The focus is squarely on building a contender for the 2027 Memorial Cup. "I don't try to look at it as pressure, I try to look at is as an opportunity to do something really special," Hopkins said of the looming goal.
Hopkins maintains regular contact with the Maple Leafs' development staff, including roving strength coach Tom Crowhurst and development staff member Joe Underwood. The proximity to Toronto also means more frequent viewings by Leafs management, including GM Brad Treliving. "One day I want to play for the Leafs, so to have all the feedback I can get from them more consistently is only going to help me," Hopkins noted.
With a supportive local network of family and friends, and a cherished Guelph Storm mini-stick from his childhood still at home, Tyler Hopkins is poised to chase a championship dream where his hockey journey began.
