Miroslav Holinka Is Rapidly Climbing the Leafs’ Prospect Ladder-and He’s Not Slowing Down
In a Toronto Maple Leafs system that’s seen its fair share of rising stars in recent years, Miroslav Holinka is making it clear: he’s next in line.
With Easton Cowan and Dennis Hildeby now firmly entrenched in the NHL and no longer wearing the “prospect” label, Holinka has emerged as the fastest riser in the Leafs’ pipeline. And at just 20 years old, he’s quickly carving out a spot among the organization’s top five prospects-and maybe even higher if he keeps up this pace.
Holinka’s journey to this point started in Czechia, where he flashed early signs of his offensive potential. He lit up his junior league with 20 goals and 41 points in just 29 games, while also getting a taste of pro-level competition with three points in 16 games. But it was his move across the Atlantic that really put him on the radar.
In his first WHL season with the Edmonton Oil Kings, Holinka put up a solid 19 goals and 45 points in 49 games-a strong rookie campaign that hinted at bigger things to come. And in 2025-26, he’s delivered on that promise in a big way.
Through 43 games this season, Holinka has already racked up 30 goals and 35 assists-good for 65 points. That puts him on pace to crack the 40-goal mark, and he currently sits ninth in WHL scoring.
What’s even more impressive? He’s just two points behind teammate Lukas Sawchyn, a 2026 draft prospect, despite playing seven fewer games.
Holinka’s offensive game has taken a clear leap forward. He’s not just scoring more-he’s creating more, too.
His playmaking has matured, his decision-making has sharpened, and he’s showing an ability to impact the game in multiple ways. At 6-foot-2 and 198 pounds, he brings a pro-ready frame and the kind of versatility coaches love-capable of playing anywhere up front.
The Maple Leafs clearly see the potential. They signed Holinka to a three-year entry-level contract last summer, locking in his rights as he continues to develop. While there’s always the option for him to return to the WHL as an overager, the more likely path sees him turning pro next season with the Toronto Marlies in the AHL.
And with the Leafs having moved on from prospects like Fraser Minten and Nikita Grebenkin in recent trades, Holinka’s emergence couldn’t be more timely. He’s not just filling a gap-he’s offering real upside. If he continues on this trajectory, he could soften the blow of those departures and become a key piece of Toronto’s future.
For now, Holinka remains one of the most exciting players to watch in the WHL. But make no mistake-his eyes are on the next level. And if the last two seasons are any indication, he’s not far off.