Could the Leafs Cash in on Bobby McMann? Here's What They Might Get Back
As the NHL trade deadline creeps closer, the Toronto Maple Leafs find themselves in a familiar position: balancing their playoff push with tricky contract decisions. One name that’s quietly gaining traction in trade talks is Bobby McMann - a pending UFA whose stock is rising at just the right time.
And the big question being asked around the league right now: *Can the Leafs actually get a first-round pick for him? *
Let’s break it down.
McMann’s Market Value: Rising, But With Limits
McMann’s recent play has opened eyes. He brings energy, versatility, and a cap-friendly deal that makes him an easy fit for contenders looking to bolster depth without blowing up their roster. That’s a big deal in a league where playoff-bound teams are cap-crunched and every dollar counts.
But here’s the catch - there’s chatter about his next deal potentially landing in the $5 million-per-season range. That’s a significant number for a player who hasn’t yet proven himself in the postseason. If you’re the Leafs, and you’re unsure about committing that kind of term and money, now might be the time to sell high.
What’s the Return?
A first-round pick? It’s possible - but not a lock.
The challenge is that many of the contenders who’d be most interested in McMann don’t have a 2026 first-round pick to dangle. Sure, a 2027 first-rounder could be on the table, but that’s a long wait for a team that wants to stay competitive now.
More realistic? A package similar to what Kiefer Sherwood fetched when he moved from Vancouver to San Jose - two second-round picks.
That’s the kind of deal that could make sense for both sides. Especially if one of those second-rounders is early in this year’s draft and the other comes in 2027.
For the Leafs, that might even be more appealing than a single late first-rounder two years out.
Edmonton Rumors and the Fit Factor
One team that keeps popping up in McMann rumors is Edmonton. He’s a local product, the Oilers need depth, and his current contract makes him a plug-and-play option without requiring a major roster shakeup. That’s a huge plus for teams trying to navigate the tight financial rope of the playoff salary cap.
But here’s the rub - Edmonton doesn’t exactly have the assets Toronto’s looking for. So unless a third team gets involved or the Leafs are willing to get creative, it’s not a perfect match on paper.
Still, McMann’s value lies not just in his play, but in how easily he fits into a contender’s lineup. His contract - especially if the Leafs retain 50% - becomes even more attractive.
At that point, you’re talking about a player making less than league minimum in real dollars, who can slot in without forcing a team to scratch someone they’d rather keep in the lineup. That’s gold for playoff-bound GMs.
Retention as a Weapon
For years, the Leafs have been on the other end of the retention game - paying that extra mid-round pick to get a player’s cap hit down. This time around, they’re in position to flip the script. With all three of their salary retention slots available, they can weaponize that flexibility to juice the return on McMann, or even players like Scott Laughton or Simon Benoit.
If Toronto plays this right, they could turn McMann - a player with no playoff track record and an uncertain contract future - into a real asset. Whether that’s a pair of seconds or a delayed first-rounder, it’s the kind of move that could help them retool on the fly without punting on this season.
Final Thought
McMann’s value is real, and the Leafs know it. His game, his contract, and his timing all make him a prime trade chip. Whether it’s a first-round pick, a pair of seconds, or something more creative, Toronto has options - and that’s exactly where you want to be heading into the deadline.