3 biggest disappointments of the Toronto Maple Leafs 2024-25 season so far
Nick Robertson
After several previous failed attempts, Nick Robertson finally managed to stick in the NHL with the Leafs for the bulk of the 2023-24 season. In total, he played 56 games, posting 14 goals and 13 assists for 27 points.
More importantly, Robertson helped provide some much-needed secondary scoring from the bottom-six, as the bulk of the offense had been carried mainly by the top two Leafs lines.
There was some controversy this summer as Robertson requested a trade, but ultimiately he found himself re-signing with the Leafs.
Following his so-called mini-breakout from 2023-24, much more was expected out of Robertson this year now with almost a season’s worth of NHL experience under his belt. This was especially the case after being one of the best Leafs players throughout training camp when he recorded 5 goals in just four preseason games, while looking strong and dangerous with the puck whenever he was on the ice.
However, since the start of the 2024-25 regular season, all of that offense has surprisingly dried up for Robertson. In 15 games played to date, he has recorded just one goal on 21 shots while averaging close to 12 minutes of ice time per night.
At that rate, Robertson is on pace for only 5 goals and as many points for the entire season, which would be a complete disaster for the aspiring left winger looking to cement his status as a solid NHL player. It appears as though he could only go up from here on out, but he will need to do it soon before he starts losing his regular starting spot in the lineup, just like he did on Wednesday night.
However, it should be noted that Robertson hasn't played badly at all. He's winning his minutes and has an expected goals rating of 50%. The Leafs coach is just not playing him with any other scorers, which limits his usefulness.
Robertson has played mostly with Pontus Holmber and Max Domi, two players who are also struggling. A run with Matthews, Marner or Tavares would give Robertson a much fairer shot at success. To date, the one goal is disapointing, but his overall play has been solid.