The strategy is a good one for Leafs GM Kyle Dubas, as he can offer guys on inexpensive contracts the opportunity to get some playing time at the NHL level and can give them some valuable experience and exposure in arguably the largest hockey market in the world. In addition, it's beneficial for the NCAA players who may not have an opportunity in their desired location after college. They can get some games in with the Leafs or the Marlies, show what they can do, and in turn, it makes them marketable to other teams. Essentially, undrafted college players are free assets.
Earlier this week, we saw the Leafs ink Hobey Baker award winning goaltender Dryden McKay to an AHL deal, much like we saw last year with fellow goaltender Keith Petruzzelli and forward Bobby McMann. Today, the Leafs announced via the team's official Website that they had signed the 25-year-old McMann to a two-year, two-way deal that will come into effect for the 2022-23 season.
The Alberta native split last season between the ECHL's Wichita Thunder and the AHL's Toronto Marlies. while his numbers in the ECHL were solid (17 points in 18 games), the same could not be said for his AHL numbers (4 points in 21 games). This year, McMann faired much better in the AHL, posting 24 goals and 35 points in 60 games played as a rookie.
McMann led the Marlies rookies in goals and was second in points this season. His 24 goals set a new Marlies franchise record for goals in a rookie season, edging out Josh Leivo's 23 goals back in 2013-14.
The former Colgate University captain's AAV with the Leafs would be $762,500 per season. Though he is likely to be a primary option for the Marlies next season with some of the Marlies expected to graduate to the NHL next season, he does have NHL size at 6'1, 203 lbs. Whether or not he makes a strong enough impression in camp to earn a spot on the bottom line with the Leafs remains to be seen.
