Former Leafs GM Brian Burke Shares His Harsh Opinion on the Maple Leafs and Nick Robertson

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Chris Gerics
November 7, 2024 (3:37 PM)

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Brian Burke didn't hold back when he spoke about Nick Robertson's future with the Maple Leafs, believing the forward is a good player, but not the best for the team.

Former Maple Leafs GM and current Executive Director of the PWHLPA Brian Burke is never one to shy away from his opinions or telling it the way it is. Always willing to seek out a camera, Burke has drawn the favor and ire of fans throughout his NHL career.

However, his most recent statements might be some of his fieriest, but also one that has more than some inklings of truth about it. Speaking on the Leafs Morning Take podcast, Burke joined Nick Alberga and former Maple Leafs defenseman Jay Rosehill to discuss various topics regarding the team, and the topic of maligned forward Nick Robertson came up:

"I like the player. Everyone does but he's not what they need. The problem is, he is a square peg in a round hole for me. He's a good player, he's a good kid from everything I see and he's a guy that should be playing in the league, but it doesn't have to be for the Toronto Maple Leafs."

Burke isn't wrong, Robertson often sticks out like a sore thumb at times, while also somehow remaining invisible. With no production, several key players returning, and to put an end to constant lineup shuffles, Burke suggests a simple solution:

"I think Brad Treliving has done a pretty good job. He's a smart guy, but I think it's time to maybe move on from Nick or move a player like Nick and give him more ice time, but the shuffling in and out and different lineups every night, that gets old. Players don't like it."

Toronto could ship someone out to give him more time, but it's not like they would be getting the same in return. The unique thing about Robertson is his potential; he's always on the cusp but can't seem to break through and most teams around the league should be fighting over each other to get him. Not because he's great, but because he COULD be great. Plus, Toronto could recoup some draft picks for the summer as well which just adds to the appeal to trade him.

With Toronto's logjam at forward, Robertson has no spot, especially with a lack of scoring. If he had half a dozen goals, or maybe at least a few helpers, we might not be talking about his future this quickly. The downfall is real though, and Robertson's fit with the Maple Leafs has quickly outgrown itself.