Previously, I wrote about how the Toronto Maple Leafs could look to gain an asset in Warren Foegele with the Los Angeles Kings. Especially, in the event that forward Bobby McMann gets moved in the process.
Well, what if the Kings become a more viable trade partner for the Maple Leafs and they can strike a deal for McMann?
The news of Switzerland and Kings forward Kevin Fiala suffering an injury during their game against Canada at the Olympics is extremely unfortunate. He underwent surgery and will be shut down for the rest of the season. While the Kings added Artemi Panarin just before the Olympic roster freeze, they now have another hole further down their lineup with Fiala out. The Kings are three points out of a wild card spot and definitely could use some reassurance for their run.
There has been no connection between the two, but it could be something where the Maple Leafs could come into the picture more so now.
Why a Trade Makes Sense
Simply put, losing a 60-70- point producer isn’t ideal no matter what point you’re at in the season. Fiala’s 40 points in 56 games is still impressive and that kind of depth scoring is hard to replace.
However, McMann could be a perfect replacement to fill the void for the Kings in Fiala’s absence. McMann has 19 goals and 32 points in 56 games and while it falls short of the production that Fiala has had this season, it’s still great results for him as he’s having a strong performance in a contract year. McMann is a player that has a great amount of speed as his 18 22+ mph speed bursts have him in the 97th percentile in the league per NHL EDGE. In addition, he has been able to do some damage in the medium to high danger range as he has 25 and 39 shots in those locations, respectively.
Contractually and positionally, it’s a good fit for any team, including the Kings. McMann’s cap hit is only $1.35 million. The Kings currently have the cap space to acquire him as they have $1.89 million in cap space. That is surely to increase once Fiala is placed on long-term injured reserve. Seeing as he has been impactful and productive on the Kings’ third line, McMann is the perfect replacement in that spot, but can also play up in the lineup.
Related: NHL Rumours: Leafs Selling, Rielly Trade Clarity & Canadiens Buying
With Panarin in the fold, he’s instantly going to slot on the top line for the Kings. With McMann, he can be a perfect fit either in a second or third line role. He has shown that he can make his mark up and down the lineup and can be a very versatile forward for the Kings.
What the Maple Leafs Can Get in Return
As it has been rumoured for weeks, the going price for McMann is a first-round pick. If there’s more that can be included, that is great value to get in return if you’re the Maple Leafs. Some teams have moved on from their 2026 first-round pick, but the Kings have theirs, possibly making them a front runner.
Moving McMann works to the Maple Leafs’ advantage as he’s probably the most valuable winger on the market right now, even at The Hockey Writers. Though, they still have options. The Edmonton Oilers have been linked to McMann as they have a first-round pick next year, but if the Maple Leafs are looking for one this season, the Kings could be a team to watch.
If the Kings move that first-rounder in 2026 along with Foegele– who has been made available– it could produce a deal. The Kings would be shedding more salary with his $3.5 million contract and is extended beyond this season. If the Maple Leafs wanted to add more to try and bring in a prospect, that could help boost their pool as well.
Let’s say that Foegele doesn’t interest the Maple Leafs and they go that route and want a prospect, would a Francesco Pinelli or Jimmy Lombardi entice them to try and add a little more in order to boost their prospect depth? The options are there.
Related: Reports Link Maple Leafs’ Rielly to Sharks
Given the tough situation the Kings are in, the Maple Leafs moving McMann to the Kings makes sense as that they could use more speed, goal scoring and intensity on the left-side to replace Fiala. He’s been an important player the last few seasons and losing him is a big loss, however, McMann can fill that void and could help with a Kings playoff run.
Statistics from NHL EDGE.
