Leafs’ McMann suspended one game for high-sticking Lightning’s Bjorkstrand

TORONTO — The NHL has suspended Toronto Maple Leafs forward Bobby McMann one game for high-sticking Tampa Bay Lightning winger Oliver Bjorkstrand.

The incident occurred three minutes into the third period of Toronto’s 2-0 win over Tampa Bay on Monday at Scotiabank Arena.

McMann received a match penalty after swinging his stick and hitting Bjorkstrand’s head following a light cross-check from the Lightning forward.

McMann, who is being suspended for the first time in his career, will forfeit US$7,031.25. The money goes to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund.

He will miss Toronto’s game Thursday against visiting San Jose, and is eligible to return when the Maple Leafs welcome Edmonton on Saturday.

The 29-year-old McMann has eight goals and six assists in 29 games for Toronto (14-11-4) this season.

Leafs coach Craig Berube disagreed with the match penalty on Monday, calling it a “tough one.”

“From our view on the bench, I couldn’t really see it too well. I’ll take a look at it, but I had a tough time with that,” he said post-game.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 9, 2025.