Toronto Maple Leafs center Bobby McMann (74) skates against the Dallas Stars during the game at the American Airlines Center. Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Maple Leafs asking big return for Bobby McMann; could Anthony Stolarz be next?

Originally posted on NHL Trade Talk | By Old Prof | Last updated Feb 4, 2026 5:06 PM ET

Elliotte Friedman was on the "FAN Hockey Show," and naturally, the Toronto Maple Leafs came up. He got into what might be happening with Bobby McMann and Anthony Stolarz, and honestly, it was one of those chats that makes you go, “Hmm, interesting.”

Maple Leafs are asking for a first-rounder for Bobby McMann

First, McMann. Friedman thinks the Maple Leafs are asking for a first-round pick if someone wants him. That’s bold, to be honest. McMann isn’t a superstar or even a big-name guy, but he keeps showing up in the right moments.

Last night, he scored again, and Friedman made a point of noting that it’s not just luck—he’s consistently finding ways to contribute. He’s big, strong, fast, and willing to do the little things that don’t always get noticed on a scoresheet.

That kind of player is exactly the kind of depth piece that can surprise other teams in a trade. Friedman said if he were Toronto, he’d ask for that first-rounder—might be more than what a lot of people would expect—but it’s the kind of move that says, “We know what we have here.”

What about Anthony Stolarz? Would the Maple Leafs move him?

Then there’s Anthony Stolarz. Friedman called him “interesting” too, which is saying something. The veteran goalie just had a really solid night, making the saves that actually matter and keeping the Maple Leafs calm when Edmonton was threatening. What’s curious is that he just signed an extension a couple of months ago. So why would Toronto even be thinking about moving him?

Friedman suggested durability could be a factor, but also reminded everyone that hockey moves fast. What was true a year ago—like how healthy a player is, or what his market might be—can completely change in a season. In the meantime, the Maple Leafs’ Dennis Hildeby has emerged as a promising goalie.

What’s the takeaway from the Friedman interview?

The takeaway from Friedman’s chat: the Maple Leafs are feeling out the market. McMann could potentially fetch that first-round pick, and Stolarz has enough intrigue that teams would take a long look if he were available. Friedman didn’t dive into exact trade scenarios, and that’s fine. The point is, Toronto is quietly testing the waters, trying to figure out value for players who aren’t headliners but still make a real difference on the ice.

It’s classic Maple Leafs stuff, really. Score a goal, make a save, quietly see what’s possible. McMann continues to produce, and Stolarz continues to show steady play. In response, the front office quietly wonders what the other teams might pay.

As Friedman said, it’s worth asking for that first-rounder.

This article first appeared on NHL Trade Talk and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: