NHL Trade Rumors: $25 million price tag fuels speculation of Leafs-Oilers blockbuster | NHL News
Bobby McMann trade rumors have grown louder as the Toronto Maple Leafs slide deeper into trouble. Two losses out of the Olympic break have pushed them to the bottom of the Atlantic Division, and the mood around the club has shifted. A team once expected to fine tune its roster for spring now faces a different reality. With the March 6 deadline approaching, Toronto is listening. And McMann’s name sits near the top of the board.He has quietly become one of the Leafs’ most appealing assets. The 27 year old winger is in the final season of a modest two year, $2.7 million contract. He has produced 32 points in 58 games, using his 6 foot 2 frame to win puck battles and create space. Contenders value that blend of size and secondary scoring. It is the kind of profile that draws serious interest this time of year.
Bobby McMann trade rumors: Why Edmonton is leading the chase and what Toronto wants
The Edmonton Oilers are widely viewed as the frontrunner. NHL insider James Murphy reported, “The Edmonton Oilers continue to be the favorite to land the 6-foot-2, 209-pound winger.” Edmonton is hunting for a reliable top six forward to support its core for another playoff push. McMann checks several boxes. He skates well, forechecks hard, and can finish when chances appear.The contract situation adds urgency. McMann is believed to prefer staying in Toronto, but his camp is seeking a five year deal worth $25 million. That works out to a $5 million average annual value. According to insider Darren Dreger, that number is not realistic for the Leafs. Speaking on “FanDuel Overdrive”, Dreger said, “He might get 5 million on the open market as an unrestricted free agent. He’s not getting 5 million from the Toronto Maple Leafs regardless of the term… Toronto doesn’t have the stomach for that.”Toronto’s front office is not reacting to every loss. Dreger made that clear. “They’re waiting for teams to step up and make concrete, legit offers on McMann. And doesn’t mean they’re selling… But that’s how then you make a sound and educated comparison to… the market on Bobby McMann,” he added. In other words, this is measured. The Leafs want value. That could mean a quality draft pick, a defenseman who can help soon, or a package of futures that fits their longer plan.Edmonton is not alone. The San Jose Sharks, Seattle Kraken, Los Angeles Kings, Minnesota Wild, and Nashville Predators have also shown interest. That broad market strengthens Toronto’s leverage. Still, if the offers fall short, one last attempt at an extension cannot be ruled out.For now, the direction hinges on what arrives on Brad Treliving’s desk before March 6. The decision will say a lot about where this season, and perhaps the next few, are truly headed.
