The threat of an offer sheet looms for Leafs RFA Nick Robertson
Previous reports have stated that the Maple Leafs didn't have to worry about a Nick Robertson offer sheet, however, all that appears to have changed.
Yesterday, reports surfaced that the Toronto Maple Leafs should not be overly concerned about the possibility of an offer sheet for young forward Nick Robertson. However, GM Brad Treliving should brace himself for this potential scenario as the tide seems to have changed.
The most immediate reason the Leafs should be careful is that an offer sheet could present Nick Robertson with an escape route from Toronto. Despite his talent, Robertson has found himself in a challenging position within the organization.
After reportedly requesting a trade, Robertson is getting frustrated with his situation, especially if the Leafs are not actively exploring trade options for him. An offer sheet could serve as a means for Robertson to expedite his departure from a team where he may feel like he's unable to properly develop and where he doesn't see more ice-time.
Another crucial factor that makes the offer sheet scenario very possible is Robertson's on-ice performance, particularly when compared to other players of his age. Recently offer sheeted Dylan Holloway is a perfect example. Through 89 career NHL games, Holloway has recorded 9 goals and 18 points. In contrast, the 53rd overall pick in 2019 Robertson has tallied 17 goals and 34 points in just 87 games, which is a much better production rate. Teams will be licking their lips to be able to offer sheet a player of Robertson's skill.
The Leafs currently have $1.25 million in cap space, meaning any offer sheet below this amount would be matched easily by Toronto, keeping Robertson with the team. However, if a team were to present an offer sheet with an AAV between $1.5 million and $2 million, the Leafs would have a much harder time matching, and Robertson would likely see himself putting on a new uniform in the fall.
As the start of training camp looms, the situation between Robertson and the Leafs is dragging on. With both sides at a stalemate, the Leafs don't appear to be in immediate panic mode, but the reality is that offer sheets have become a tool for teams to snatch young talent, especially when a player appears to be unhappy with his current team, as is the case with Nick Robertson.
For Nick Robertson, the next few weeks could determine whether he remains a Maple Leaf or finds himself starting a new chapter with another organization. We are in for a very interesting finish to this saga.
Source: ESPN
Nick Robertson Stats
| POLL | ||
Will Leafs Nick Robertson receive an offer sheet? | ||
| Yes | 178 | 53.3 % |
| No | 156 | 46.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
