Oilers Linked to Maple Leafs Winger Bobby McMann Ahead of Trade Deadline

Insiders propose potential trade package for the affordable forward to bolster Edmonton's depth scoring.

Feb. 24, 2026 at 11:53pm

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The Edmonton Oilers are reportedly interested in acquiring Toronto Maple Leafs winger Bobby McMann ahead of the NHL trade deadline. McMann, who is in the final year of his contract with a $1.35 million cap hit, has 19 goals and 32 points in 56 games this season. Insiders suggest a potential trade framework of McMann for the Oilers' 2026 second-round pick and prospect Tommy Lafrenière, though the Oilers' tight salary cap situation could complicate a deal.

Why it matters

The Oilers have struggled to generate consistent offense from their bottom-six forwards, with the team's depth players being outscored 60-32 at five-on-five when Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl are off the ice. Adding a reliable two-way forward like McMann could help address that imbalance and provide the Oilers with more balanced scoring throughout their lineup.

The details

McMann is enjoying a solid season with 19 goals and 32 points in 56 games for the Maple Leafs. His $1.35 million cap hit makes him an appealing trade target for the Oilers, who have limited cap space to work with. Insiders suggest a potential trade framework of McMann for the Oilers' 2026 second-round pick and prospect Tommy Lafrenière, though the Oilers may need to offload another contract or have the Leafs retain a portion of McMann's salary to make the numbers work.

  • The NHL trade freeze was recently lifted, allowing teams to explore potential deals.
  • The NHL trade deadline is approaching, putting pressure on teams to make roster improvements.

The players

Bobby McMann

A 26-year-old winger for the Toronto Maple Leafs who is in the final year of his contract with a $1.35 million cap hit.

Tommy Lafrenière

A 19-year-old right wing prospect in the Edmonton Oilers' system.

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What they’re saying

“Despite tight cap space, McMann's $1.35 million hit makes him an appealing target. While he's not known as a high-end playmaker, his north-south game and strong work ethic would fit well in Edmonton. He could slot into the third line or move up into the top six, potentially allowing Ryan Nugent-Hopkins to shift back to center.”

— Max Bultman and Harman Dayal, NHL Insiders

What’s next

The Oilers are focused on their upcoming game against the Anaheim Ducks on Wednesday, but McMann's name is likely to remain in trade rumors as the deadline approaches.

The takeaway

This potential trade highlights the Oilers' need to bolster their depth scoring to complement their star players, Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Acquiring a reliable two-way forward like Bobby McMann could help address that imbalance and provide the Oilers with more balanced scoring throughout their lineup.