The Toronto Maple Leafs’ season isn’t looking promising right now. After dropping back-to-back games coming out of the Olympic break, they’ve fallen to the bottom of the Atlantic Division. With their playoff hopes fading fast, the team is increasingly expected to approach the trade deadline as sellers rather than buyers.
Amid all this uncertainty, one Maple Leafs winger has emerged as a top trade target for the Oilers.
Oilers Remain Top Contender for Leafs Winger
The winger at the center of the rumors is Bobby McMann. He’s in the final season of his two-year, $2.7 million deal, making him a valuable asset as the March 6 trade deadline approaches.
He has posted 32 points in 58 games this season. He’s brought size, forechecking ability, and timely offense, the kind of depth scoring every contender covets this time of year.
But here’s where things get complicated. Reports indicate McMann would prefer to stay in Toronto, but he’s seeking a five-year deal worth $25 million, a $5 million AAV. That’s a number the Leafs reportedly aren’t comfortable matching, which could ultimately push them toward moving him.
NHL insider James Murphy recently noted, “The Edmonton Oilers continue to be the favorite to land the 6-foot-2, 209-pound winger.”
The Oilers are looking to add a top-six forward to bolster their roster for a deep playoff run, and McMann checks a lot of their boxes.
Speaking on “FanDuel Overdrive”, insider Darren Dreger shed more light on the situation. “He might get 5 million on the open market as an unrestricted free agent. He’s not getting 5 million from the Toronto Maple Leafs regardless of the term… Toronto doesn’t have the stomach for that.” Dreger said.
Dreger also pushed back on the idea that the Leafs are making decisions based on each game’s outcome. Instead, management is reportedly taking a measured approach. “They’re waiting for teams to step up and make concrete, legit offers on McMann. And doesn’t mean they’re selling… But that’s how then you make a sound and educated comparison to… the market on Bobby McMann,” He added.
The organization wants real value in return, whether that’s a quality draft pick, a defenseman who can contribute, or a futures package that fits their long-term plans.
If the offers don’t meet expectations, there’s still a scenario where Toronto circles back with one final extension attempt. But as of now, this isn’t a panic-driven, game-by-game reaction. It’s calculated.
Beyond Edmonton, McMann has reportedly drawn interest from several other teams, including the San Jose Sharks, Seattle Kraken, Los Angeles Kings, Minnesota Wild, and Nashville Predators.
What the Maple Leafs ultimately decide is still unclear. For now, attention turns to their next game against the Ottawa Senators on Saturday.
Maybe McMann in Edmonton could help defeat Marner in Vegas for some revenge.