Many thought that Bobby McMann would make the Leafs lineup this season right out of training camp. That thought, though, was squashed when the Leafs signed Ryan Reaves to a big contract, forcing McMann to start the season with the Marlies. However, with some injuries to the lineup, McMann has been able to secure a pretty regular spot on the Leafs' bottom line and has seen his playing time increase throughout his performances.
McMann was able to score his first NHL goal and has 2 goals and 4 assists for 6 points in his 18 games played this season. He brings energy, speed, physicality, and an ability to put the puck in the net to the Leafs' fourth line that was previously missing.
With McMann getting more playing time, its clear that his value will only go up. He is contributing and proving that he belongs in the NHL. Brad Treliving should look to extend him before the season is over. He is currently on a deal worth just over league minimum and could be extended now for another multi-year deal in the $800,000 range.
The kicker is that Treliving could offer McMann a one-way deal, which he might not get somewhere else. This would ensure that McMann gets paid whether he is sent down or not, which could be enticing for the forward.
The longer that Treliving waits, however, the more McMann's value could increase given his increased responsibility and success on the Leafs.
As seen on Editor in Leaf - "Who Should the Toronto Maple Leafs Extend Next?"
POLL | ||
Do you think the Leafs should extend McMann? | ||
Yes | 596 | 75.4 % |
No | 194 | 24.6 % |
List of polls |