Bobby McMann injury: Why did Leafs center left game against Red Wings?

The Toronto Maple Leafs faced a setback in Saturday's game against the Detroit Red Wings as forward Bobby McMann, a key depth player, left the ice with a lower-body injury and did not return. The forward, who has quickly become a fan favorite, played his final shift in the second period against the Red Wings.

The 27-year-old McMann's exit came after an unfortunate incident along the boards, where he appeared to get tangled up and fell awkwardly. He skated gingerly to the bench before heading to the locker room for further evaluation. With McMann sidelined, the Leafs will need to adjust their lineup and find a suitable replacement to fill the void left by his absence.

Bobby McMann has been a consistent performer for the Leafs, tallying 15 goals and nine assists for a total of 24 points in 55 games. He has had a long road to NHL glory, and that grit and determination has infected the Leafs locker room in the last two months. His veteran leadership will be longed for should he miss time.

Having recently signed a two-year contract extension worth $2.7 million, Bobby McMann's presence was expected to be a stabilizing force for the Leafs moving forward. However, his injury now presents an opportunity for other players to step up and prove their worth in his absence.

Who could fill Bobby McMann's spot in the Toronto Maple Leafs lineup after his injury against the Detroit Red Wings?

One potential candidate to fill Bobby McMann's spot is Matthew Knies, who has shown flashes of potential despite a somewhat inconsistent sophomore season. Knies, currently playing on the fourth line, could be called upon to slide up and join the Leafs' second line alongside John Tavares and Mitch Marner, providing a different offensive threat.

The Toronto Maple Leafs could also move up any of their third-line players into a second-line role alongside Tavares and Marner. Nicholas Robertson and William Nylander are among the options. However, doing so could negatively impact the team's depth, which they've carefully cultivated throughout the season.

Alternatively, Noah Gregor emerges as another option to bolster the Leafs' forward depth, potentially slotting into the fourth line to replace Knies. With his speed and tenacity, Gregor could inject energy into the lineup and help maintain the team's intensity throughout the game.

As the Leafs navigate Bobby McMann's absence, they will rely on the depth and versatility of their roster to continue their push toward the playoffs.