Bobby McMann's transformation from AHL journeyman to legitimate NHL power forward has put the Toronto Maple Leafs in a fascinating contract situation. The 29-year-old winger is in the final year of a bargain $1.35 million deal, and his breakout performance is about to make him one of the most expensive decisions Brad Treliving faces this offseason. With 14 goals and 24 points in 46 games, McMann is on pace to shatter his career highs and earn himself a massive raise that could reach upwards of $4 to $5 million annually.
Elite Speed Makes Him a Weapon
Bobby McMann showing off his speed and strength! pic.twitter.com/bpaXuMnxNi
— Hux/Hky/Condition (@HuxHkyCondition) October 22, 2024
What separates McMann from typical third-line grinders is his elite skating ability. According to NHL EDGE tracking data, McMann possesses one of the fastest recorded speeds in the league, trailing only superstars like Connor McDavid and Logan Cooley. His breakaway speed has become a signature weapon, allowing him to blow past defenders and create high-danger scoring chances. Combined with his 6'2" frame and physical playing style, McMann brings a rare combination of size, speed, and finishing ability that makes him incredibly valuable in today's NHL. Craig Berube has raved about his versatility, noting that McMann can play anywhere in the lineup and produce at a high level.
Career-Best Numbers Demand Big Money
McMann is currently on pace to obliterate his previous career highs across the board. After scoring 20 goals and 34 points last season, he's tracking toward 26 goals and 44 points this year, numbers that would make him one of Toronto's most productive secondary scorers. He led the team in goals during December with six tallies and has proven he can produce alongside Auston Matthews on the top line or bring energy to the fourth line. According to TSN's Darren Dreger, preliminary extension talks have already begun, and the Leafs are looking at a contract that starts around $4.8 to $5 million annually.
The risk for Toronto is clear. McMann is a late bloomer who didn't become a full-time NHL player until age 27, and he's had stretches where his production has disappeared. He also hasn't built a playoff resume yet, leaving questions about whether he can maintain this pace when it matters most. However, comparable players with similar profiles have landed contracts in that $4 to $5 million range, especially in a rising cap environment where scoring depth is increasingly scarce. The Leafs have over $20 million in cap space next offseason, but they can't afford to make mistakes with limited resources.
The Leafs face a classic dilemma. Sign McMann now and potentially overpay if he regresses, or wait and risk watching his price skyrocket if he shines in the playoffs. Given the light free agent class this summer, McMann could become a hot commodity on the open market if Toronto doesn't lock him up. With his combination of elite speed, physical presence, and proven chemistry with the team's core, the smart move might be paying him now rather than watching another homegrown talent walk away for nothing.
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