Rumor corner: Toronto wants a first-round pick for Bobby McMann

Michaël Petit
Rumor corner: Toronto wants a first-round pick for Bobby McMann
Credit: Screenshot | NHL.com

Even though it's the Olympic break in the NHL right now, there are still rumors circulating.

Generally, these are developments involving names that come up fairly often in rumors, such as Jordan Kyrou, Nazem Kadri, etc.

This time, we're going to turn our attention to Bobby McMann, Samuel Ersson, and the Oilers' coaching staff.

The Maple Leafs want a first-round pick for Bobby McMann

Bobby McMann's name has been circulating a bit in recent weeks.

The 29-year-old forward, who was never drafted, arrived in the NHL relatively late (at age 26), but he has proven that tenacity and grit can take him far.

McMann has scored 19 goals in 56 games this season and last year he scored 20, a career high.

He certainly has what it takes to bring energy, intensity, and an offensive touch to a third line, for example.

One wonders what kind of return the Leafs would want in exchange for McMann, and if we are to believe Elliotte Friedman in his most recent Written 32 Thoughts, the anticipated return would be a first-round pick.

That seems a little high for a good bottom-six player, but at the same time, he's the type of player who is highly sought after for the playoffs.

As Friedman mentioned, several contending teams no longer have first-round picks in the 2026 draft. That can certainly complicate matters and could make those clubs reluctant to part with another first-round pick.

Let's see where this goes.

The Flyers are ready to find a solution in front of the net

Samuel Ersson has never been considered an elite goaltender in the NHL, but he has gotten the job done.

This season, his performances have been very disappointing (3.51 goals-against average and .856 save percentage). In addition, he has been unable to win on a regular basis, with only eight wins in 24 games.

With these performances, the Flyers may be inclined to seek help in goal, especially since Ersson will be a restricted free agent at the end of the season.

That's whatAnthony Di Marco of Daily Faceoff believes.

According to Di Marco, the Flyers should look for a goalie like Dennis Hildeby of the Toronto Maple Leafs.

He shouldn't cost too much and could certainly help the Flyers in net.

To be continued.

Paul Coffey returning as Oilers coach?

Defensively, it's always been tough for the Oilers.

Goaltending has never been their strong suit, and there has always been room for improvement on the defensive end.

That's why David Staples ofthe Edmonton Journal believes a change in coaching staff could be in the works.

According to Staples (and his colleague Jim Matheson), this could certainly involve the return of Paul Coffey as defensive coach.

Coffey held this position until the end of last season, before taking on a role as special advisor to the owners.

The idea isn't crazy at all, since Coffey is an Oilers legend and is considered one of the best defensemen of all time.

It probably couldn't get any worse defensively for the Oilers if Coffey returns to his position as defensive coach.


Overtime

– There is certainly a big difference in leadership and accomplishments between the two captains.

– Indeed.

– I can't wait to see if Marchand can keep up with MacKinnon on the same line.

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