Why It's Crucial for the Maple Leafs to Trade Nick Robertson
Nick Robertson was once touted as the Leafs' best prospect when he was drafted in the second round in 2019. He has performed well, but injury and tight roster circumstances have prevented him from getting in the lineup.
With the recent high hit on Robertson during a Marlies game, it's clear that the time is now to trade him to give him a fresh start.
The Time is Now to Move Robertson
Robertson has been lighting it up in the AHL, with an impressive 5 points in the Marlies' first two games. It's clear that he has the potential to play in the NHL, but the Leafs have been able to use his waiver-exempt contract stipulations to keep him in the organization at the AHL level.
However, concerns are on the rise regarding Robertson's missed NHL chances. It's likely that if the Leafs keep him in the minors, he will get frustrated and want out of Toronto. And, yesterday, Robertson received a high hit which led him to being evaluated in the dressing room.
This brings urgency to an important question. If the Leafs aren't intending on using Robertson, its time to trade him before something goes wrong.
Robertson Stock at All Time High
Nick Robertson's value is at an all-time high right now. First and foremost, he is healthy, something the young forward has struggled with in his early career. Secondly, Robertson is coming off a brief, but good showing in the NHL last season, playing 15 games and recording 5 points and a plus-2 rating. Most obviously, though, is how his development is showing during the first few games of the AHL this season, with him scoring goals left and right.
Arguably more important, though, is that Robertson's contract expires this year. If the Leafs continue to frustrate him by limiting his chances, they risk losing him for nothing in free agency. Clearly, the time to move Robertson is now.
As seen on NHL Trade Talk - "Close Call Proves Maple Leafs Must Move Nick Robertson Now"
| POLL | ||
Do you think the Leafs should trade Robertson? | ||
| Yes | 191 | 69.2 % |
| No | 85 | 30.8 % |
| List of polls | ||
