Popular network makes a bold prediction for one Maple Leafs sophomore

After being looked at as a bit of an in betweener for a few years, Bobby McMann really emerged as a quality NHL player for the Maple Leafs last season.

A multi-time 20+ goal scorer at the AHL level, McMann had a hard time finding the back of the net with the Maple Leafs early on in his tenure in Toronto, but broke onto the scene with a 15-goal campaign in 2023-24, showing everyone what he's capable of with the puck on his stick.

Now, coming into his sophomore season, NHL Network is projecting McMann to not only grab ahold of a spot during training camp, but a top-6 spot, playing next to captain John Tavares and the supremely talented William Nylander.

McMann did receive a look in the top-6 at the end of last season, but unfortunately, due to injury, he was unable to have a sustained run in the position, and missed the playoffs entirely.

With Tyler Bertuzzi having left Toronto in favour of signing a deal with the Chicago Blackhawks this summer, the Leafs could really benefit from a guy like McMann taking a big step forward and being a key contributor for them behind the Core 4.

Similarly, McMann can really benefit from this opportunity as well, finding himself in a position where he could see a little more ice time with better players in 2024-25.

McMann signed a 2-year extension with the Leafs last season, which provided him with a modest raise, worth a total of $2.7M, or $1.35M per season.