Leafs Rookie Expresses Frustration With Brad Treliving After Latest Move

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Graham Montgomery
March 11, 2024 (5:52 PM)

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Toronto Maple Leafs rookie Nick Robertson has had quite the development path so far. He has bounced between the NHL and AHL over the past few seasons, leading to growing frustration on his part. Today he talked to the media about his growing disappointment in the team.

Robertson Addresses Recent Demotion To AHL, Talks About Frustration With Leafs

The rookie forward was called back up to the NHL today. He was sent to the AHL prior to the trade deadline as a move intended to give the team maximum cap space at the deadline. While Brad Treliving supposedly told him he would be called up shortly after the deadline, the move is a bit odd. They were only able to do so because Mark Giordano was moved to LTIR.

Confirmed that the #Leafs have moved Giordano to LTIR, giving them space to recall Robertson.

Similarly, Mitch Marner is currently dealing with an injury, potentially making room for Robertson in the lineup. As such, this move seems to be out of necessity rather than as a result of Treliving keeping his word to the forward. After his callup, he talked briefly with the media about his status with the team.

"I understand it but I'm not going to sit here and say that I'm happy. I want to play, but I understand my contract situation. Obviously, if it wasn't the way it was maybe it would be a different situation but it is what it is."

Robertson Playing Well In Limited NHL Minutes

Despite having played just 71 career NHL games, 41 of which have come this year, Robertson is technically not a rookie in the league. However, his age and experience level are effectively that of a rookie anyways. With that context in mind, his 8 goals and 19 points this season is rather admirable, especially considering his limited role with the team. Furthermore, he is not playing every day, making it difficult for him to establish a groove.

Still though, he's played well so far. As such, it is easy to understand where he is coming from. Considering the Leafs' lack of depth scorers and cap problems, one would think Robertson's spot in the lineup is not up for debate. As it is though, it seems like his relationship with the team is deteriorating. He very well could be traded in the offseason.

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