Maple Leafs in extension talks with Oilers-linked forward

Bobby McMann and the Toronto Maple Leafs are in talks to extend the forward's contract, despite links to the Edmonton Oilers, according to David Pagnotta.

In the Feb. 25 edition of Daily Faceoff's "DFO Rundown," the journalist said McMann's camp and general manager Brad Treliving are in active discussions to offer a new deal to the player, who is currently in the second and final year of his contract and earns $1.35 million AAV.

"There's obvious trade interest in Bobby McMann; he's a pending unrestricted free agent, but the Toronto Maple Leafs like him a lot, too," said Pagnotta. "They're actively engaged in contract talks right now with him and his agent to try and see if they can come to terms on an extension."

"I'd imagine something in the five-year range. Five years at $5 million AAV, I think, is something that gets that done," he added.

Maple Leafs prioritizing Bobby McMann extension despite Oilers interest

Pagnotta revealed a few weeks ago that the Oilers had identified McMann, 29, as a priority target. "Yes, I do," he said, via "Oilersnation Everyday," when asked if Edmonton has interest in the forward.

"You look at what he's capable of. The offensive outbursts he can produce, and he plays with the big boys. You can argue that [Auston] Matthews has played up to that level. Either way, it bodes well for what the Oilers have."

Although McMann is not unanimous among the fanbase, extending him is clearly the way to go for Toronto.

With 19 goals and 13 assists for 32 points in 57 games, he is in a good middle-six scoring range. That's something very necessary for the Leafs, considering the high dependency on Matthews, William Nylander and John Tavares.

McMann has had three seasons of progressive growth. He understands head coach Craig Berube's system and, also very importantly, the Toronto media environment and the pressure that entails.