McCue was traded to the Brantford Bulldogs in the offseason with high expectations for his overage year, but things have not gone to plan. After 36 goals and 55 points across Owen Sound Attack and Flint Firebirds last year, he has managed just 30 points in 47 games split between the Bulldogs and Ottawa 67’s following a mid-season move. The fact that a sharp talent evaluator (Spencer Hyman) moved McCue off a Brantford roster that could have accommodated him suggests there could be something beyond simple fit issues at play. It is worth noting that he may still be feeling the effects of an injury sustained in his debut with the 67’s. His role in Ottawa is clearly defined as a bottom-six player, which limits his offensive output. His high-energy playstyle made him an appealing overage piece on paper, and he has shown genuine adaptability throughout a winding junior career that has taken him through five organizations. He credits that experience for making him a better player and person, and teammates in Ottawa have embraced him quickly. He projects as a depth player at best, and real uncertainty remains about where he lands next – an AHL contract, an NCAA commitment, or something else. Not a great option in any fantasy format until there is more clarity on his future.

Sam McCue split the 2024-2025 season between the Owen Sound Attack and the Flint Firebirds of the OHL, combining for 36 goals and 19 assists for 55 points in 55 games. At the end of the season, McCue was traded for a boat-load of draft picks to the Brantford Bulldogs, seemingly set to play an over-age season in the OHL. McCue no doubt will be a fan favourite in Brantford with his high-energy, wrecking ball style, and though he is surely no threat to replace the goal scoring hole left by the graduation of Nick Lardis, he showed this season he knows how to put pucks in the net. It remains to be seen where he will head after the OHL, and likely isn’t worth a fantasy investment at this point. He will be fun to watch, however.

The Toronto Maple Leafs drafted McCue in the seventh round (216th overall) in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft.