Analyst Floats Nick Robertson Trade to Eastern Rival - Would You Do It?
Photo credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
An article from Nestor Quixtan of Heavy.com put together a trade pitch that would drastically change both the Maple Leafs and Penguins; but it is worth pulling off?
There's a lot of talk about the Maple Leafs trying to add to their offense, and while they have no shortage of firepower, losing Mitch Marner left a gap in the forward group that lacks that extra punch up front.
Tons have been speculated to be a part of a potential trade or signing and we've seen Nazem Kadri, Jordan Kyrou, Jack Roslovic, and Victor Olofsson all named as potential players to come in and help the Maple Leafs in 2025-26.
But two names who have stood out above the rest given the amount of noise they've received is Pittsburgh's Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell.
Both wingers would add a fantastic bit of offense and leadership to any team, and their separate skillsets allow them to seamlessly move up and down the lineup.
The Analyst's Bold Proposal
It's going to come at a cost though and with the Maple Leafs lacking a real premium asset, they are going to need to overload things. According to reporter Nestor Quixtan, Toronto needs to go all-in.
In an article for Heavy.com, Quixtan put together a blockbuster deal that would see Toronto acquire both Rust and Rakell, though the cost is fairly expensive; but for good reason:
Maple Leafs get:
2026 third-round pick
2027 third-round pick
Penguins get:
Nick Robertson, F
David Kampf, F
2027 second-round pick
2026 third-round pick
2027 third-round pick
Penguins get:
Nick Robertson, F
David Kampf, F
2027 second-round pick
Look, the name of the game is dumping cap and opening up roster space, and Toronto can kill both birds with one stone in this deal.
Why Toronto Might Pull the Trigger
We know Kyle Dubas loves Robertson, and Kampf can provide a mentorship role while not affecting the Penguins in the standings too much.
Toronto also needs to part with their 2027 2nd-rounder, and while it's a bit egregious to say they'll do well for themselves by getting two 3rd-rounders; it might be part of a bigger plan.
Who's to say that Brad Treliving can't turn around and dish off those picks and perhaps someone like Ben Danford in order to grab that impact defenseman to really solidify things (Dougie Hamilton, anyone?)
Toronto clears $4.3-million off the books, gives themselves more assets they can deal away or keep if they feel there might be a future star; and it allows them the chance to put the lineup they want on the ice every night without needing to resort to last-minute changes.
What This Could Mean for Robertson's Career
First and foremost, it means that Robertson will finally get meaningful minutes and be put in a top-six role where not only he can thrive, but might actually get him focused and start to become more consistent.
Getting the chance to play potentially alongside Sidney Crosby or Evgeni Malkin can only do positive things for Robertson's career, and with them in the twilight of their careers; Robertson might be the focal point of the offense at some point.
It also means he finally gets to move on from a team that frankly, doesn't really have a true spot for him. His youth and potential are enticing, but his hot and cold streaks are frustrating.
The writing on the wall might become more apparent in the coming weeks, but for the Maple Leafs; it's time to win-now and Robertson may very well be the sacrificial lamb who gives Toronto what they need to win.
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