Maple Leafs Reward Breakout Star with Well-Deserved Promotion and Some Love From the Coach

The Toronto Maple Leafs currently sit second in the Atlantic Division and are preparing for a deep playoff run under veteran coach Craig Berube in his first season in Toronto.

The Leafs have had a few unexpected standouts this season, but one bottom-6 player has excelled and, as a result, Bobby McMann has been promoted and will play in the top-6.

McMann is having a career year, with 19 goals and 12 assists for a total of 31 points in 62 games so far. These are all career highs for the 3rd year NHLer.

McMann's strong performance has earned him a chance to play alongside star players William Nylander and John Tavares on the team's second line.

On Monday, Berube sung McMann's praises, revealing that nothing was handed to him this season. He has worked for his opportunity and has earned it.

McMann's journey to becoming a strong NHL player has been a long one. The undrafted forward worked his way up through the ECHL, then the AHL, and finally made his NHL debut at the age of 25.

McMann previously discussed his slow start to the season, admitting that he was overthinking his game. He found that when when he simplified his play and maintained his confidence, his performance improved.

McMann's sudden emergence has also resulted in an increase in ice time compared to last season, with his average time on ice (TOI) now at 14:33-nearly three minutes more than last year, demonstrating Berube's belief in him.

McMann and the Maple Leafs will face the Philadelphia Flyers on Tuesday, where he will look to make an impact in his expanded role as the team looks to optimize their lineup for the upcoming playoffs.