As the NHL season progresses, the future of several Toronto Maple Leafs players hangs in the balance. Defenceman Troy Stecher and winger Bobby McMann are among five Leafs facing unrestricted free agency this summer, a reality that brings both uncertainty and opportunity.
Stecher's Journey and Toronto Fit
Since being claimed off waivers from the Edmonton Oilers on November 15, 2025, Troy Stecher has solidified his place on the Maple Leafs' blue line. The 31-year-old defenceman, playing on a two-year contract with an average annual value of $787,500 US, has exceeded expectations according to head coach Craig Berube.
"He has brought that kind of competition to our team," Berube stated, praising Stecher's consistent competitive edge and puck-moving ability. Teammate Morgan Rielly echoed the sentiment, calling Stecher a "massive part of our back end" who came to Toronto as a "man on a mission."
Despite his success, Stecher's career has been marked by movement—traded at three consecutive deadlines (2022, 2023, 2024) before a stint in Edmonton. This history shapes his current mindset. "My career has never really been steady in regard to being located in one place," Stecher admitted. "My focus is preparing for Minnesota. I'm not worried about the off-season."
McMann's Rise and Contract Outlook
Forward Bobby McMann presents a different case. The 28-year-old is in the second year of a deal carrying a $1.35 million AAV, a "show-us" contract he has vastly outperformed. After a 20-goal season in 2024-25, he has continued his strong play with 15 goals and counting in the current campaign.
This production positions McMann for a significant raise, with industry buzz suggesting his next contract could land in the $4-5 million range. "It's the only organization I've really known," McMann said of the Leafs. "The way we get treated... is second to none. It would be a place that I'd definitely love to be."
However, like Stecher, McMann is trying to keep his focus on the present. "It's not something that I want to pour a lot of energy into right now," he emphasized, prioritizing team success and a potential playoff run.
The Bigger Picture for the Leafs
The contract situations of Stecher and McMann are part of a larger puzzle for General Manager Brad Treliving. They are joined by forwards Scott Laughton and Calle Jarnkrok, and defenceman Matt Benning as Leafs heading toward July 1st unrestricted free agency.
For Stecher, the appeal of Toronto is clear. "I love being a Leaf. I love playing in Toronto," he said, while acknowledging the business side is "out of my control." His priority remains daily contribution and helping the team win.
McMann expressed gratitude for the opportunity the Leafs provided with his current contract, which gave him two years to develop. "I want a good team where we can win games... but have also the opportunity to get every resource to get better. I'm thankful for it."
As the 2026 season continues, both players will have the chance to further state their cases for a long-term future in Toronto, where the roots they've started to put down could grow deeper.
