The Toronto Maple Leafs are staring down a familiar and frustrating storyline: a midseason slide that’s threatening to derail their playoff hopes. After dropping five straight games-all on home ice-the pressure is mounting.
With the NHL trade deadline creeping closer, Toronto’s front office is approaching a fork in the road: double down for a playoff push or start thinking about a more significant retool. If they choose the former, there’s one name that should be on their radar-Jared McCann.
Yes, that Jared McCann. The same forward the Leafs briefly held the rights to back in 2021 before leaving him exposed in the Seattle Kraken expansion draft. The Kraken scooped him up, and all he’s done since is become the franchise’s all-time leading goal scorer.
McCann has been a model of consistency since Seattle entered the league in 2021-22. He’s hit the 20-goal mark in each of the last four seasons and has posted 50+ points every year over that span.
That kind of production doesn’t just happen by accident-it’s the result of a player who knows how to find open ice, finish chances, and contribute in all situations. He’s currently sitting atop the Kraken’s all-time goals list with 132 and leads the franchise in total points with 269.
His breakout year came in 2022-23, when he notched 70 points (40 goals, 30 assists) in 79 games. That 40-goal campaign wasn’t just a flash in the pan-it was a statement. McCann’s offensive instincts, especially his ability to get into high-danger areas and finish, make him a legitimate top-six threat on any roster.
This season, injuries have limited him to just 28 games, but he’s still produced at nearly a point-per-game clip with 26 points (14 goals, 12 assists). He’s sixth on the team in scoring despite missing time, and his five power-play goals rank second among Kraken players.
That’s not a small detail-Toronto’s special teams have taken a noticeable dip this season, and McCann’s power-play presence could be exactly what the Leafs need to get that unit humming again. He also holds the all-time franchise record for power-play goals in Seattle with 33, further underscoring his value in that department.
And it’s not just about season-long numbers-McCann’s recent play shows he’s rounding into form. Over his last five games, he’s tallied seven points (four goals, three assists), and he’s put up 11 points (six goals, five assists) in his last 10. That’s the kind of hot hand Toronto could use right now as they try to claw their way back into the playoff picture.
So, what would it take to bring McCann to Toronto?
That’s where things get tricky. McCann is more than just a productive forward-he’s a foundational piece for the Kraken.
He’s been with the team since day one and has become one of their faces of the franchise. That said, every player has a price, and if Leafs GM Brad Treliving comes calling with the right offer, Seattle GM Jason Botterill would at least have to listen.
One potential trade chip could be Bobby McMann, an upcoming free agent who’s put up comparable numbers to McCann this season, albeit in more games. McMann’s age and contract status might make him an attractive short-term piece for a Kraken team that’s still figuring out its long-term identity.
If that’s not enough to get a deal done, the Leafs could look to include a defenseman like Morgan Rielly or Brandon Carlo to help balance the salaries and sweeten the pot. Rielly, in particular, would be a significant piece to move, but if the Leafs are serious about making a run, bold moves may be necessary.
McCann, now 29, is still in his prime and has one full season left on his current contract after this year. He does have a modified no-trade clause, so any deal would require his approval-but if Toronto is on his list of acceptable destinations, the fit makes a lot of sense. He brings scoring, versatility, and a much-needed jolt of energy to a team that’s been flatlining lately.
For the Leafs, the next few weeks will be about defining their direction. Are they still all-in on this core?
Or is it time to pivot? If they choose to push forward, Jared McCann could be the kind of addition that not only helps them get back on track-but makes them dangerous again.