NHL Analysts Push for More Recognition of Underrated Maple Leafs Forward
Bobby McMann has emerged as one of Toronto's most dynamic and exciting young forwards, and some analysts believe he's earned his spot in the upper part of the lineup.
Every year for the Maple Leafs there seems to be one player in particular who comes out of the woodwork and decides to make a big impact and break through the glass ceiling and take their game to the next level.
Last season it was Matthew Knies and Joseph Woll, a few years ago it was Michael Bunting and this year you could argue that Anthony Stolarz while he's been historically good, has taken his game to the next level and is a huge part as to why Toronto's been so successful.
But there's one forward who's been able to not only hang with the team's elite, but one that NHL Analysts believe isn't getting his flowers, and he's overdue.
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It's incredible to think that just over a year ago, Toronto placed McMann on waivers at the start of the season. He cleared, then decided he never wanted to experience that again and completely exploded offensively.
In 56 games with the Maple Leafs last season, he scored 15 goals and added nine assists and is already on pace this season to score 26; a huge improvement and a massive step forward for someone only in his true sophomore campaign.
Keeping up with Nylander is a feat in itself, but McMann is deceptively fast and has a second and sometimes third gear he kicks into that allows him separation and gives him the chance to make a play.
While the first line of Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner and Matthew Knies has been phenomenal recently, McMann has been a sparkplug all season, and if he can flourish with the third line, imagine what he could do up top.
When John Tavares returns from injury, him lining up with McMann and William Nylander would give Toronto a frightening amount of speed, skill and scoring, while Max Pacioretty can offer guidance and his grittiness to Max Domi and Nick Robertson.
He's also seemingly Toronto's good luck charm, as the team has an 18-2-1 record whenever the forward scores a goal, and if that record continues come playoff time, don't be surprised if Craig Berube tries to give him every chance to score.
Bobby McMann has started to show the Maple Leafs that not only did they do him right by giving him the chance to shine, but that he deserves an even bigger platform for his bright future.
