This week has brought interesting news for Toronto Maple Leafs fans. While the events are hardly Earth-shattering, they signal the direction in which the team is headed.
So, we’re going to look at the Nick Robertson signing and what it signals to the rest of the team. Also, we’ll be considering the Leafs blue line, specifically as it pertains to Jani Hakanpaa and Mark Giordano. Finally, we’ll be looking at what the Max Pacioretty situation means for the team’s lineup heading into camp.
It’s worth pointing out that the Toronto Maple Leafs face cap space issues, making it impossible to sign everyone and fit them under the cap without clearing some room first.
So, it remains to be seen what additional moves Brad Treliving has in mind as the Leafs head into training camp in a few days.
Looking at the Toronto Maple Leafs latest moves in closer detail
Item #1: Nick Robertson is not guaranteed a roster spot
This week, the Maple Leafs and RFA Nick Robertson ended their stalemate with a one-year, $875K deal. The news is most welcome as the last thing the Leafs need is a distraction over a largely inconsequential issue.
While Robertson is a key part of the team’s youth movement, it was senseless to drag out this issue as long as both sides did. But with the deal, the matter is now in the rear-view mirror.
But there’s one thing that many folks have overlooked: The fact that Robertson has signed doesn’t mean he’s guaranteed a roster spot. Robertson still needs to show up at training camp and earn the spot he gets. That said, he's clearly going to make the team, unless he's traded.
The assurance this season is that Robertson will get every opportunity to make the team and play a meaningful role. I envision Robertson on the second line with John Tavares and William Nylander. However, it should automatically be assumed that Robertson will play there.
In fact, Robertson needs to prove his talent, while showing he can stay healthy. If he can do both, he will get a hefty raise next season, whether in Toronto or elsewhere.
On the flip side, if Robertson washes out, he could get his originally wish and get traded.
In short, Robertson needs to work his tail off in camp. He’ll be up against Matthew Knies and Bobby McMann, while possibly facing some competition from Easton Cowan. Competition is always a healthy thing to have. So, hopefully, it can translate into a successful season for all players involved.