Nick Robertson impresses in Maple Leafs’ gritty 4-3 preseason victory
Toronto Maple Leafs hockey has returned, and while the opening game of the preseason may not have been a spectacle, it was effective. The Maple Leafs edged out the Ottawa Senators with a 4-3 win on the road. This matchup featured a Senators lineup filled primarily with NHL talent, while Toronto opted to rest key players such as Auston Matthews and Morgan Rielly.
Offensive Contributions
The Maple Leafs showcased their depth as Calle Jarnkrok, Nick Robertson, William Villeneuve, and Matthew Barbolini each found the back of the net. This diverse scoring is a promising sign for a team looking to establish offensive consistency ahead of a new season.
Head coach Craig Berube took the opportunity after the game to praise several players who are vying for roster spots. Among them, Robertson stood out, particularly as his future with the organization remains uncertain.
Nick Robertson’s Performance
Robertson’s performance on the ice was noteworthy. Having signed a new contract with the Maple Leafs over the summer, he understands that a secured spot on the roster is not guaranteed. Following the game, Berube highlighted Robertson’s work ethic and ability to score, stating, “He’s a worker, right? That can shoot the puck in the net, and that’s what he did tonight.”
With 17:15 of ice time—ranking fourth among Maple Leafs forwards—Robertson not only scored the team’s second goal but also recorded three shots, the highest of any player on the team. Reflecting on the game, Robertson commented, “It was kind of a grind of a game, to be honest. It got pretty chippy out there, but I’m happy our guys pulled together to grind through that one. It’s the first game, you just have to get comfortable.”
Roster Dynamics and Trade Speculation
The Maple Leafs are navigating a complex situation regarding their salary cap, with reports indicating they are looking to make room for potential free-agent acquisition Jack Roslovic. Players such as Jarnkrok and David Kampf have been mentioned as possible candidates for salary dumps. Berube acknowledged their contributions, stating, “I thought our veteran guys, Kampf and Jarnkrok, did a good job of leading the way, playing the right way.” Both players logged significant ice time, with Kampf at 20:11 and Jarnkrok at 19:00.
As the team continues to assess its roster, discussions surrounding Robertson’s future have emerged. During the broadcast, analysts noted his potential to score 20-25 goals in the league, a skill that many teams covet. “That is a trait that every team in the NHL values,” one analyst remarked.
The Maple Leafs face a pivotal decision regarding Robertson’s potential. By giving him opportunities in a top-six role, they could increase his market value, allowing other teams to gauge his capabilities. Conversely, they might choose to keep him on the roster, allowing the young player to grow and refine his skills.
Looking Ahead
The Maple Leafs will take to the ice again on Tuesday, September 23, as they continue their preseason campaign. The performance of players like Nick Robertson will be closely watched, not just for immediate impact, but also for the broader implications it has on the team’s strategy and roster decisions as the season approaches.
