Nick Robertson Faces Make-or-Break Moment with Maple Leafs Amid Trade Rumors
The Toronto Maple Leafs are entering a critical training camp, where roster battles are heating up as the new NHL season approaches. Among those vying for a coveted spot is Nick Robertson, a young forward who has yet to secure consistent playing time with the team. Despite signing a one-year contract worth $1.825 million this offseason, Robertson’s future in Toronto hangs in the balance.
Uncertainty Surrounds Robertson’s Position
Robertson has faced challenges in solidifying his role within the Maple Leafs organization. His development has been marred by injuries and inconsistent performance, leading to doubts about his fit in the lineup. As training camp unfolds, speculation surrounding a potential trade has begun to swirl. Insider Jonas Siegel highlights that a trade appears to be the most likely outcome for Robertson, echoing a familiar narrative witnessed last fall with Timothy Liljegren.
Siegel notes, “We saw a version of this play out last fall with Timothy Liljegren, another player who had been around a long time without ever quite nailing down a firm position within the organization.” The Maple Leafs’ management opted to re-sign Liljegren, only for him to find himself sidelined by head coach Craig Berube shortly after. Liljegren ultimately played just one game before being traded to the Sharks.
Trade Speculation Intensifies
The question now looms: will Robertson follow a similar trajectory? If the Maple Leafs navigate the preseason without significant injuries and find a lineup that excludes him, Siegel suggests that a trade could become even more plausible. He points out, “Robertson has made it clear he isn’t especially thrilled to be back with the Leafs.” The dynamic presents a dilemma for both the player and the franchise, as keeping Robertson around without regular playing time serves neither party’s interests.
General Manager Brad Treliving may find it in the best interests of both Robertson and the organization to explore trade options early in the season. Robertson’s potential as a scoring winger could attract interest from several teams looking for an offensive boost.
Potential Suitors for Robertson
Should the Maple Leafs decide to move on from Robertson, there are several franchises that could be keen on acquiring his services. Teams such as the San Jose Sharks, Chicago Blackhawks, and Pittsburgh Penguins have been mentioned as potential landing spots. Siegel notes the irony in Pittsburgh being led by the GM who originally drafted Robertson back in 2019.
However, the viability of a trade hinges on whether any team is willing to take on Robertson’s $1.825 million cap hit, especially with restricted free agency looming next summer. Siegel raises an important question: “Why not San Jose? Or Chicago? Or Pittsburgh?”
Robertson’s Mindset Amid the Pressure
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Robertson maintains a positive outlook. He views his continual presence in roster competitions and the signing of one-year deals as an opportunity for growth. “I don’t really want to go into it. I think that’s just part of the business side,” he reflects. “It’s just what came about. Maybe it’s a blessing in disguise. You’ve got to work. It’s a contract year.”
In the previous season, Robertson managed to score 15 goals and add 7 assists for a total of 22 points across 69 games. As he prepares for the upcoming camp, he remains focused on proving his worth and securing his place in the lineup. With the stakes higher than ever, Robertson’s performance in the coming weeks may very well determine his future with the Maple Leafs.
