Bobby McMann looking like a natural fit on Leafs' second line

"One of the biggest questions heading into this season was how Bobby McMann would adjust to being a full-time top-six player. He was coming off a disastrous playoffs, during which he registered only three assists, and was demoted to the fourth line. With how overmatched he looked, there were concerns about whether he could be a consistent contributor in the top six."

"However, those concerns were quickly put to rest after his performance against the Canadiens on Wednesday night. In 15:54 of ice time, he notched the Maple Leafs' first goal of the season as well as delivered four hits. Although it was only one game, he looked very comfortable playing alongside John Tavares and William Nylander. If McMann can continue to play how he did against the Canadiens, it'll be a significant boost to the Leafs."

"McMann was a man on a mission against the Canadiens. Not only did he put the puck in the back of the net, but he also played with much more confidence than he has in the past. He looked like he belonged alongside Tavares and Nylander. He wasn't afraid to fight for the puck or create space for the other two to try to score. It's the type of player this line has been desperately searching for."

"Opening Night was not the first time McMann had played alongside Tavares and Nylander. That line combination appeared in 46 games last season. They had moderate success, scoring 11 goals while allowing only 5. Those metrics were decent as well. According to Moneypuck, they had an xGoals percentage of 58.7% and a xGoals per 60 Minutes of 3.49. These numbers were among the best on the Maple Leafs."

Bobby McMann struggled in the playoffs, registering only three assists and being demoted to the fourth line amid doubts about his ability to handle top-six minutes. He played 15:54 against the Canadiens, scoring the Maple Leafs' first goal of the season and delivering four hits while looking comfortable beside John Tavares and William Nylander. That line appeared in 46 games last season, scoring 11 goals and allowing five, with a 58.7% xGoals percentage and 3.49 xGoals per 60 minutes, ranking among the team's best. A consistently productive McMann could provide the physical presence and space creation that strengthens Toronto's top six and helps define a new team identity after the Mitch Marner trade.

Read at Editor In Leaf