Maple Leafs’ Quick Hits: Dubas, McMann, and Nylander

In fact, Pittsburgh is one of the smallest cities in the NHL with a population of approximately 299,500 (as of the 2020 census). While Toronto is one of the largest with a population of approximately 2.93 million (as of the 2021 census).

Quick Hit Two: Looking Forward to Bobby McMann Sorting Out His Potential

I admit that I’m looking forward to several Maple Leafs’ prospects getting a chance with the big club next season. Specifically, I hope that Nick Robertson can stay healthy. I also want to see if Matthew Knies can leverage his solid postseason into a top-six role with the team coming out of training camp. As well, Pontus Holmberg looked good to me during the regular season. I want to see more of him.

However, Bobby McMann emerges for me as an intriguing prospect for the Maple Leafs’ regular-season roster. In part, he grew up in rural Alberta and I know his hometown of Wainwright quite well. Despite not yet scoring his first NHL goal, McMahon has shown promise and potential.

As an undrafted young player, his skills and dedication make him a valuable asset to the team. McMann persevered and earned a call-up to the NHL after impressing in the AHL. His physicality, two-way game, and work ethic have made an impact on those who watch him play. He plays with energy, defensive prowess, and the ability to generate scoring chances.

I believe McMann has a chance this coming season. How far will his star rise in the world of hockey?

Quick Hit Three: Is William Nylander the Most Productive of the Core Four?

Maple Leafs’ fans know that William Nylander is a reliable playoff scorer for the Maple Leafs. However, few fans (including me) knew how favourably he compared to Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner in terms of production. What sets Nylander apart is his ability to maintain his performance throughout the entire season – including the postseason in high-pressure games.

Unlike Matthews and Marner, who’ve experienced a decline in production in the postseason, Nylander shows improvement. One aspect of his consistent performance could be attributed to his indifference towards criticism. He simply doesn’t seem to be fazed by any pressure from the media or the fans. That allows him to remain focused and unaffected on the ice.

Despite receiving less ice time than Matthews or Marner, Nylander’s points per 60 minutes often are higher than his counterparts. And this happens even when he regularly receives less favourable ice time. His chances of success, given his limited opportunities to contribute, further suggest his value. Specifically, if the first unit line is “loaded up,” it’s usually with Matthews, Marner, and John Tavares – not Nylander.

Nylander also brings a diverse offensive skill set that helps make the Maple Leafs’ offence unpredictable. Nylander’s passing skills and his threat as a shooter can confuse opponents who are trying to defend him. He is a smooth skater, especially in transition, which allows him to move the puck effectively and create scoring chances.

I hope the Maple Leafs’ new GM doesn’t trade him. He’d be missed by fans and his team alike.