Nick Robertson's Situation With the Maple Leafs Is More Complicated Than Fans Think
Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images
Fans might think it's pretty cut and dry to just part ways with Nick Robertson however NHL Insider Darren Dreger revealed things aren't as easy as they seem to be.
It's been a topic of discussion for the past couple of seasons, but the trade rumors surrounding Nick Robertson don't seem to be stopping anytime soon.
First he asked for a trade, then recanted and signed a one-year deal; he didn't break through but though he was close enough, nearly taking the team to arbitration this summer and still looking for some more chances to showcase his skills elsewhere.
He's been off to a slow start again this season, though did finally manage to score and hopefully it will give him some much needed confidence, although fans would more than likely prefer to see what the Maple Leafs can acquire for him.
Darren Dreger Shares Latest on Nick Robertson's Trade Value
But for those fans desperate to see a trade made, NHL Insider Darren Dreger explained that things are a lot more complicated than at first glance.
Speaking on TSN's First Up, Dreger explained that Toronto would have already made a deal if there was one to be made, and it's not like there's a lack of interest from teams around the NHL:
He would've been traded by now if the Leafs just wanted to get rid of him; I do think that there are teams across the league that are intrigued by his capability.
What that capability is remains to be seen, as he has yet to really take the reins and run with them yet, and is still trying to find a secure spot in the lineup, bouncing from top to bottom and everywhere in between.
Why Toronto Is Taking Its Time With the Young Forward
But it's showing that whatever endurance test this is regarding Robertson's potential, Toronto isn't deterred.
If they really wanted him gone, then there are certainly more than a few willing parties who would dish off a veteran or a pick for the chance to see what he can do and it's not like Robertson is bad.
He's clearly shown the ability to score, just not consistently; that's the issue. But neither has Max Domi, neither did Pontus Holmberg or David Kampf. Bobby McMann went scoreless in 13 straight games to end the season last year.
It's not for a lack of trying, but Robertson just hasn't been able to find that next level, though he's absolutely capable.
There's a reason why he was drafted 53rd overall, and his junior production shows obviously he can score (97 goals in 162 games), and sometimes it takes a bit of time; this is only his third season as a full-time member of the roster.
Previous to 2023-24, he played a total of 31 games; that's barely enough to get acclimated let alone with a revolving door of players.
So it's not like the Maple Leafs are tired of Nick Robertson and want him gone, they very well could move him pretty easily but obviously have some good reasons not to.
The potential he has to truly break out and become a star is more enticing than whatever he could bring back, and worth considerably more as time goes on.
| POLL | ||
OCTOBRE 30|1182 ANSWERS Nick Robertson's Situation With the Maple Leafs Is More Complicated Than Fans Think Do you think the Toronto Maple Leafs should trade or keep Nick Robertson? | ||
| Keep Him | 522 | 44.2 % |
| Trade Him | 660 | 55.8 % |
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