The Toronto Maple Leafs are expected to make moves as sellers before the NHL trade deadline on March 6, aiming to address their current position outside the playoff picture. Despite a recent winning streak, the team’s overall struggles this season have prompted management to consider trades, with Bobby McMann standing out as a key asset they may offer.
Hockey analyst Friedeman noted on The Fan Hockey Show that the Leafs are actively exploring possibilities, mentioning,
“I don’t think so, I think they’ll continue to look around.”
He added,
“They went out there last week, and they told teams we’re considering some things that we didn’t think we’d have to consider,”
highlighting the urgency in Toronto‘s trade considerations.
Maple Leafs Demand a First-Round Pick for McMann
Bobby McMann has attracted interest from multiple teams due to his value as a solid middle-six forward, combining size, speed, and scoring ability. Friedman explained the Leafs’ asking price:
“I think they’re asking for a first-rounder for McMann. And that’s what I would do too if I was the Leafs, that’s the price I’d set.”
He praised McMann’s qualities, saying,
“I really like McMann as a player. In this NHL, size matters, and he’s a big, strong, fast guy.”
Currently in the final year of a two-year, $2.7 million contract, McMann has contributed 19 goals and 13 assists, totaling 32 points in 56 games this season. His performance makes him a valuable trade asset as Toronto aims to acquire future draft capital.
McMann Identified as a Clear Trade Target
Although the Maple Leafs have endured a disappointing campaign, McMann’s steady play has been a highlight. NHL insider Matt Larkin from DailyFaceoff highlighted McMann as a logical trade candidate due to his upcoming contract situation and current production.
Larkin expressed some fan concern, stating,
“I can understand if some Leaf fans feel trepidation over the idea of cashing out McMann,”
drawing parallels to Zach Hyman‘s career path. He pointed out,
“A tenacious, late-blooming left winger going to market at 29 years old sounds a lot like Zach Hyman.”
However, Larkin cautioned that Hyman’s trajectory is rare, while McMann appears to be near his peak value and could fetch a second- or first-round pick thanks to his rare combination of size and speed.
The competition among interested teams is expected to increase McMann’s market value, providing Toronto with leverage to negotiate a favorable return.
Other Potential Toronto Trade Assets
Beyond Bobby McMann, the Maple Leafs might move additional players before the deadline. Names such as Oliver Ekman-Larsson and Scott Laughton have been mentioned as possible trade candidates. However, Friedman suggested that goalie Anthony Stolarz could also be on the market, noting teams’ occasional need for netminders.
Friedman remarked,
“Stolarz, to me, is an interesting one,”
and was curious about Toronto’s apparent willingness to part with him shortly after his contract extension. He added,
“If they’re worried about him physically, that’s one thing. But a year ago him and Woll were the second-best goalies in the league.”
The Leafs currently have Joseph Woll and Dennis Hildeby in goal, and with Hildeby losing waiver exemption status next season, the team may be compelled to trade a goalie. However, Stolarz’s four-year, $15 million contract starting next season could complicate any potential deal.
Implications of the Maple Leafs’ Trade Strategy
As the March 6 trade deadline approaches, the Toronto Maple Leafs appear focused on gaining future assets by moving established players like Bobby McMann. This approach reflects the urgency to recalibrate their roster amid a challenging season and outside playoff contention. McMann’s combination of size, skill, and contract situation makes him a valuable commodity, and the Leafs’ high asking price indicates they aim to maximize his return.
Other roster adjustments involving players such as Ekman-Larsson, Laughton, and Stolarz may follow, depending on how offers develop. These moves could reshape Toronto’s roster and impact their competitive outlook in the coming seasons.
