Hollowell lands deal with Leafs
Mac Hollowell is living the dream.
The 20-year-old Niagara Falls native is having a career year with the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds and has been so impressive he has been signed by the Toronto Maple Leafs to a three-year, entry-level contract.
Hollowell was Toronto’s fourth-round selection in the 2018 National Hockey League draft, 118th selection overall.
“It’s definitely a dream come true to be able to sign,” Hollowell said. “It feels really good.”
Hollowell said the deal came together very quickly.
“Just about a week ago I was talking with my agent and I signed and they just released it yesterday,” he said. “Obviously, it was a really special moment to know I was going to be able to sign with the Leafs.
“I’m not too sure why now, but I guess they wanted to sign me and show that they are happy about me.”
Hollowell said there were some down times when he wondered if pro hockey was ever going to work out for him.
“I’d say there were definitely some days questioning whether all the hard work would eventually pay off, but times like these where it does makes it feel really good.”
Hollowell didn’t do a lot of celebrating after inking the deal with a couple of his buddies on hand.
“No celebrations yet,” he said. “I have to stay in my routine because we’re still going through the season here.”
Hollowell admits it’s a load off his mind to get the deal done.
“It’s definitely a weight off my shoulders,” he said. “I get to finish off my last season here and finish off a playoff run without having to worry about next. I feel I’ll be able to play my game.”
Hollowell leads all Ontario Hockey League defencemen with 23 goals and 72 points and is a plus-25 this season.
“Things have gone really good this year,” he said. “I’m happy to have this opportunity here in the Soo and I’m loving it.”
Hollowell began his junior career in 2014-15 with the Niagara Falls Canucks. In 2014, the Greyhounds drafted Hollowell in the 12th round of the OHL Priority Selection with the 237th pick overall.
He has fond memories of his time with the Canucks.
“It was great for me. I was able to go to the Canucks and play big minutes and when I got called up I got a little taste of the OHL and I could bring things back to work on down there. It was great for my development.”
Hollowell isn’t sure what is in store once the Greyhounds season comes to an end. It is not uncommon for teams to add junior players to their American League teams once the OHL season is done.
Hollowell had a brief taste of pro when he attended Leafs rookie camp in the Falls last September.
“It was definitely a big eye-opener. The guys at the AHL level are big and strong and work hard every day.”
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