Toronto Maple Leafs' Bobby McMann Says He Wants to Battle as Trade Deadline Speculation Swirls

Bobby McMann faces an uncertain future with the March 6 trade deadline approaching. The Maple Leafs forward has become one of the most discussed names in trade speculation, but the pending unrestricted free agent remains focused on his game rather than his contract situation.With his production not living upto the mark, the forward remains high up on the list of names that Toronto plans on tossing to the trade block. Not to mention, with fewer than 22 games remaining, the Maple Leafs must offload some names. McMann addressed the swirling rumors following a recent practice.

Extension Talks Ongoing Between Bobby McMann and His Agent

The Maple Leafs remain in contract discussions with McMann's agent, according to multiple reports. General manager Brad Treliving wants to keep the forward long-term if the sides can agree on a reasonable number.

"I mean, that's hard to put into words," McMann said. "Not really necessarily trying to speculate on officially leaving either. I want to just battle here and it's been fun my whole career, working my way into the NHL here and being given the opportunity. I want to make the most of it and continue to put my best effort forward no matter the situation."McMann is enjoying a career year with 19 goals and 32 points through 58 games.

He currently sits on pace for 27 goals after scoring 20 last season. His speed, physicality and shooting ability make him an attractive piece for playoff contenders.Toronto values McMann's contributions but cannot let him walk for nothing if an extension proves unattainable. The organization reportedly wants a first-round pick in any trade, though some evaluators question whether he commands that price.The Maple Leafs sit in last place in the Atlantic Division with a 27-24-9 record and 63 points.

Toronto trails the Bruins by eight points for the final wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference, with diminishing playoff hopes. The disappointing season has pushed the franchise into seller mode ahead of the deadline. McMann ranks seventh on TSN's Trade Bait board among the most likely players to move before March 6. Several teams have expressed interest in the winger, including the Oilers, Hurricanes, Avalanche, and Kings.

Edmonton has been linked to McMann for months as the Oilers search for secondary scoring depth.For someone who was seen as a big prospect back during his rookie season two years ago, McMann’s production has fallen. He is not fitting Craig Berube’s vision for the Maple Leafs. With that in mind, it will be a better move for Toronto to trade him before the trade deadline this Friday.