As the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline looms, the Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly shifting gears into full sell mode-and one of the most intriguing names on their potential trade board is Bobby McMann. With playoff-bound teams hunting for depth and value, McMann has emerged as a player who could command a surprisingly high return. Some insiders believe Toronto could fetch a first-round pick for the 27-year-old winger, and when you dig into the numbers and context, that idea isn’t as far-fetched as it might initially seem.
Let’s break down why McMann is drawing serious interest-and why his trade value might be higher than you’d expect.
McMann vs. Sherwood: A Close Comparison with Key Differences
At first glance, McMann and Kiefer Sherwood aren’t all that different. McMann has 32 points (19 goals, 13 assists) through 56 games, while Sherwood has tallied 23 points (17 goals, 6 assists) in 47 games.
Both are contributing offensively, and both have shown they can chip in at even strength. But Sherwood, who was recently dealt to the San Jose Sharks for two second-round picks, brings a more physical edge-he’s not afraid to throw the body around and plays with a bit more grit.
He’s racked up nearly 90 more hits than McMann this season and has a knack for getting under opponents’ skin.
That said, Sherwood is likely slotted into a bottom-six role on a playoff team. He’s a depth piece with some bite, and while that’s valuable, it’s not the same profile as McMann, who’s currently skating on Toronto’s top line with Auston Matthews.
That’s not just a placeholder role-McMann has held his own in that spot, showing speed, hockey sense, and a willingness to get to the dirty areas. He’s not just riding shotgun with a superstar; he’s contributing in a meaningful way.
The Cap Hit Factor
One of the biggest reasons McMann’s trade value is climbing? His cap hit.
At just $1.35 million, he’s one of the most affordable contributors available on the market. For contenders navigating the tight financial waters of the NHL’s salary cap, that kind of value is gold.
Teams can slot McMann into their lineup without having to move major money around, and that flexibility is a big part of why Toronto can aim high in trade talks.
Even looking ahead, McMann’s next contract is projected to land somewhere in the $3-3.5 million AAV range-still a manageable number for a player who could slot into a middle-six role and contribute in the postseason. That kind of cost control adds to his appeal, especially for teams that might want to keep him around beyond this season.
Trust from the Bench-and Potential for More
McMann’s rise in Toronto hasn’t gone unnoticed by head coach Craig Berube, who’s shown increasing trust in the winger over the past few months. That trust has translated into more ice time and bigger opportunities, and McMann has responded with consistent play. He’s not just a plug-and-play forward-he’s someone who can tilt the ice in his team’s favor.
And while trade destinations are still speculative, it’s worth noting that McMann could thrive in the right environment. A team like the Edmonton Oilers, for example, could offer him a chance to build on his recent success and potentially grow into a top-six role. If he were to land on a line with a player like Connor McDavid, the opportunity to elevate his game even further would be right there.
Why a First-Round Pick Isn’t Out of the Question
In a market that’s thinner than usual, especially when it comes to affordable forwards with upside, McMann stands out. He’s producing, he’s trusted in key situations, and his contract makes him a low-risk, high-reward target. That’s the kind of profile that can command a first-round pick-even if it’s late in the round-or a package that includes multiple assets.
For the Maple Leafs, this is a chance to capitalize on a player who’s boosted his stock significantly. And for teams looking to add without breaking the bank, Bobby McMann might just be one of the sneaky-best pickups of this deadline season.