Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images
Bobby McMann is quietly showing that even late bloomers can be impactful and if the Maple Leafs decide to trade him, he could bring back more than you’d think.
He was 27 then, and now as he approaches 30 years old in June, it seems like we can clearly classify McMann as a late bloomer who is finally getting his footing under him and showing that it’s definitely better to be late than never at all.
But with him being a pending free agent and making very reasonable money, the Maple Leafs could potentially trade him especially if he is used as package to improve the backend or bring in a top-six force (even though McMann is slowly making a case to stick there himself).
Bobby McMann quickly showing why he’s a sneak trade candidate
With the way he’s playing this season, it looks like he could bring back quite a significant piece if history is any indicator:
Anthony Beauvilier was traded last season for a 2025 second-round pick and though he is two years the junior, his contract and goal-numbers are near-identical.
McMann made an even stronger case on Tuesday night when he scored a power play goal; his 12th goal of the season, and did so in typical McMann fashion by wiring a wrist shot past Jacob Markstrom.
Why Bobby McMann could bring back a decent return for Maple Leafs
He also displayed some of that breakneck speed that we’ve seen before, as he nearly had a second goal on a breakaway attempt. He’s deceptively fast, a huge body on the ice, and loves to be physical and block shots.
While it would be a bit disheartening to lose McMann, if he can bring the Maple Leafs back some much needed draft capital and then in turn either help bring in a future player or someone who can help now; then it’ll be worth it.
The Maple Leafs would love to keep Bobby McMann, but there’s a few others who would love to have him as well and if the price is right then Toronto shouldn’t think twice about pulling the trigger.
Previously on Hockey Patrol