Toronto Maple Leafs face pivotal decision on Bobby McMann as his breakout season could see him soar beyond their budget
As the Toronto Maple Leafs gear up for another season, the spotlight has largely been on goaltender Anthony Stolarz and his contract extension. However, another significant storyline looms: the future of forward Bobby McMann, who finds himself in the final year of his current deal. The 29-year-old has the potential to be either a top-six or a bottom-six forward, but for now, he seems poised for a top-six role. Daily Faceoff predicts McMann will take up a position as the second-line left winger alongside John Tavares and William Nylander.
Contract Talks on Hold
Given his projected role, one might expect the Maple Leafs to quickly secure McMann’s services for the future. Surprisingly, there have been no discussions regarding a contract extension, as reported by the Fourth Period’s David Pagnotta. This scenario is becoming increasingly common; many impending unrestricted free agents (UFAs) find themselves in a holding pattern. Teams are shying away from extending offers to potential free agents, largely due to uncertainties surrounding high-profile extensions like those of Kirill Kaprizov and Connor McDavid.
For players like McMann, there is a strategic advantage in proving their worth with another strong season before negotiating a new deal. After all, McMann is coming off a breakout campaign where he netted 20 goals. If he can replicate or even improve upon those numbers, a lucrative multi-year contract at a top-six average annual value (AAV) could be within reach. However, such a scenario might also lead to McMann pricing himself out of the Maple Leafs’ budget.
A Player Worth Keeping
Despite the potential financial complications, the Maple Leafs would undoubtedly prefer to retain McMann. His grit and tenacity have become essential components of his game, propelling him into a more significant role within the team. The organization has a history of unearthing hidden gems, and McMann fits that mold perfectly. He initially impressed enough to earn a spot in the bottom six and has continued to climb the ranks since.
Assuming he remains injury-free, McMann’s versatility and commitment could see him take on an even more substantial role this season. Losing him would present a formidable challenge for the Maple Leafs, as finding a suitable replacement in free agency could prove cost-prohibitive. With the salary cap on the rise, keeping contracts manageable is becoming increasingly difficult.
A Complicated Negotiation Ahead
General Manager Brad Treliving faces a daunting task when it comes to extending McMann. Although there is no clear timeline for negotiations, fans may find themselves hopeful for a resolution sooner rather than later. However, predicting the value of McMann’s next contract is a complicated endeavor. The Maple Leafs will aim to keep his AAV as low as possible, but McMann’s camp is likely to reference contracts of other top-six forwards when discussing potential figures.
While McMann certainly won’t come cheap, he may offer the Maple Leafs some flexibility. His established role within the team could be a significant draw that other franchises may struggle to replicate. Yet, teams in desperate need of forward depth may be willing to pay a premium, potentially offering a multi-year deal at a higher AAV than Toronto can accommodate.
Ultimately, the future of Bobby McMann and the Maple Leafs will hinge on the performance of both parties throughout the season. A strong showing could motivate both McMann and the organization to finalize a new contract before the looming July 1 deadline.
