Maple Leafs Duo Poised To Break Out After Showing Significant Improvement Over Recent Games

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Chris Gerics
November 9, 2024 (5:30 PM)

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The duo of Bobby McMann and Nick Robertson is set to light the league on fire if they can pick it up, as both men have taken huge strides over the last two games.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have shown great resilience in the wake of Auston Matthews' injury, showing dominance in wins over both Boston and Detroit. They have been led by John Tavares, Mitch Marner, and Morgan Rielly as all three show why they're vital to this team.

However, there is a duo who has gotten significantly better over the last two games, even if the scoresheet doesn't reflect it. Both Bobby McMann and Nick Robertson have shown new life on the third line, and to McMann; it's just a matter of time:

"I think we've both been together long enough that we realize there's a lot of talent there, I guess, between us. It comes in waves, so sometimes, it's not what's hitting the back of the net, it's about the chances that you're getting," McMann said to reporters ahead of the Montreal Canadiens clash on Saturday

The chances were plenty for both McMann and Robertson, as the latter had the Maple Leafs' first goal against Detroit before it was unfortunately called back:

That didn't stop Robertson or McMann though, as the third line hounded Detroit all night, including an impressive run where Detroit's defensemen were on the ice for over a whopping two minutes before a change. Mainly due to plays like this:

The line generated four shots on the night, and was the Maple Leafs' second-best line for expected goals for (xGF%) and also had nearly nine minutes of 5v5 time; a pretty big jump from recent games, and McMann noted the same:

"I think that's kind of what we're focusing on and trying to pick each other up when we're generating chances and making good plays, and also being good defensively because I think that comes first."

It's great to hear McMann think about the complete game, as it would significantly increase both his and and Robertson's chances to earn more minutes if they played more defensively.

What's great to see is Robertson's endless stamina as he just races up and down the ice; a big change from earlier in the year. It feels like he has a new lease on life, and not just because he has added responsibility due to Matthews being injured.

While the stats may not reflect the improvement of both McMann and Robertson, they pass the eye test. It's been fun to watch both men improve and show a revitalized sense of purpose and they deserve to have their luck turn around soon.