Craig Berube makes huge decisive claims on Bobby McMann Maple Leafs future ahead of next season amids concerns from his incomplete 2023 season
Bobby McMann is a forward to watch this season with the Toronto Maple Leafs. He brings unique skills and potential to the team. Known for his impressive skating abilities, size, and physicality, McMann is earning his place and has the potential for a breakout season.
As the Maple Leafs work through this regular season, how they deploy McMann could be crucial. Could his role expand? Might he become an even more significant part of the team’s success?
What Maple Leafs Fans Should Expect from Bobby McMann
McMann’s impressive skating abilities testify to his relentless effort on the ice. Despite playing an incomplete season in 2023-24, he showed that he was surprisingly fast on the ice – especially for a big skater. He had the most speed bursts over 20 mph on the team, surpassing even William Nylander. McMann is also the only Maple Leafs player to break the 23 mph mark, showcasing his potential to be a significant asset as a full-time player.
McMann has the potential to have a breakout season this year if he gets the chance to play significant minutes. He’s fast, big, physical, and committed to doing well. While he did not come up through the regular channels, his performance with the American Hockey League (AHL) Toronto Marlies proved he could score. He also brings size and physicality to the game and a huge desire to make a difference. As noted, he’s fast and can turn a game on a dime with his shot.
If Keefe Liked McMann, Berube Should Love Him
If ex-Maple Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe liked McMann, new head coach Craig Berube should love him. Last season, Keefe believed McMann was essential to the team, and the Maple Leafs felt his absence greatly when he was out of the lineup with an injury towards the end of the season. His physicality was missed during the postseason.
Berube is a different kettle of fish than Keefe. He has a penchant for physicality and size, and he will likely have an even higher appreciation of what McMann can do. Fans should look forward to McMann getting big minutes with the team. His size, speed, skill, and physicality could greatly benefit the team.
Although there’s a chance McMann could struggle to meet the Maple Leafs’ high expectations, his potential to be a difference-maker is undeniable. With solid minutes, McMann has the opportunity to shine. He possesses the size, speed, skill, and internal drive that has been overlooked for so long.
His relentless motor could be a key factor in the Maple Leafs’ 2024-25 season success. If McMann can pull it all together, he could become an essential piece for the team, demonstrating that the Leafs’ faith in his potential was well-placed.
Bobby McMann is poised to be a player to watch this season for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Bringing a unique blend of skills and potential to the team, McMann has garnered attention for his exceptional skating, imposing size, and physical play. His ability to carve out a significant role could lead to a breakout season.
As the Maple Leafs navigate the regular season, McMann’s deployment will be a key storyline. Could he see his role expand, and might he become a more integral part of the team’s success?
What Maple Leafs Fans Should Expect from Bobby McMann
McMann’s skating prowess underscores his relentless effort on the ice. Despite an incomplete 2023-24 season, he showcased remarkable speed, especially for a player of his stature. Leading the team in speed bursts over 20 mph and being the sole Maple Leaf to break the 23 mph barrier, McMann’s potential as a full-time player is evident.
If given significant minutes, McMann has the ingredients for a breakout year. His blend of speed, size, and physicality, coupled with his determination to excel, sets him apart. Although his path to the NHL wasn’t traditional, his performance with the AHL’s Toronto Marlies demonstrated his scoring ability. McMann’s physical presence and desire to make an impact, along with his game-changing speed and shot, make him a player to watch.
From Keefe to Berube: A New Chapter for McMann
Former head coach Sheldon Keefe recognized McMann’s importance to the team. McMann’s absence due to injury late last season was felt, particularly his physicality during the postseason. New head coach Craig Berube, known for his appreciation of physical play and size, is likely to value McMann even more.
Fans can anticipate McMann receiving substantial playing time. His combination of size, speed, skill, and physicality aligns well with Berube’s coaching style and could significantly benefit the team.
While McMann may face challenges meeting the high expectations, his potential to be a game-changer is clear. With ample ice time, McMann has the chance to shine. His overlooked size, speed, skill, and drive position him as a crucial player for the Maple Leafs.
A Pivotal Season Ahead
McMann’s relentless energy could be a key factor in the Maple Leafs’ success in the 2024-25 season. If he can harness his abilities, McMann could become an indispensable part of the team, validating the Maple Leafs’ belief in his potential.
