When Toronto Maple Leafs Prospect Nick Robertson requested a trade earlier this summer, I reflected on why he would want out.
Robertson’s reasoning is fairly obvious: He hasn’t gotten the opportunity he feels he deserves with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Under Sheldon Keefe, Robertson didn’t get a chance to truly show what he could do.
Let’s think about that for a second. Keefe never really used Robertson beyond a bottom-six role. In fact, Robertson averaged roughly 11 minutes in the 56 games he played last season. That’s too bad, considering that Robertson scored at the second-highest rate of any Leafs forward last season during 5v5 play.
If anything, Robertson is a speedy winger who’s got plenty of playmaking potential and scoring ability. So, why not deploy him in the top six? Keefe had his reasons for keeping Robertson in the bottom six. Perhaps it was just a question of trust.
With the arrival of Craig Berube things have changed. So, it’s worth revisiting what role Nick Robertson could play on the Toronto Maple Leafs next, assuming the Leafs re-sign him.
Finding a Spot for Nick Robertson in the Toronto Maple Leafs Lineup
Robertson is not a typical Berube-type player. Robertson isn’t big and feisty. Instead, he’s fast and skilled. Those qualities make Robertson a prime candidate for the top six. From my perspective, Robertson should get a long look on the top line with Mitch Marner and Auston Matthews.
How so?
Robertson could sneak behind defenders when opposing defenders clamp down on Matthews. Plus, Robertson would give Marner a talented target, making it tough for the opposition to cover everyone all the time.
Upon further consideration, Robertson could be crucial in unlocking more goal-scoring opportunities for Matthews. Roberson could even help Marner reach 100 assists.
All right, some may argue that Robertson is a stretch on top of the line. So, why not deploy Robertson on the second line? He could fill a similar role. Robertson would take some heat off William Nylander, allowing Nylander to roam freely.
Nylander nearly had 100 points without a true playmaker. He took a lot of heat from opposing defenders and still scored. Now, imagine Robertson taking some of that heat off. Tavares could produce more offensively. Meanwhile, the line’s overall output could skyrocket.
The scenarios described above hinge on Robertson re-signing. I think the best approach would be a bridge deal, allowing both sides to figure things out. If they do, Robertson and the Leafs can work out a long-term extension. If they don’t, no one can blame the Toronto Maple Leafs for not giving up on Nick Robertson.
The cost of giving up on Robertson could be astronomical. Considering the Leafs track record with young players, the club should do everything in its power to give Nick Robertson the chance he deserves.