Nick Robertson has dealt with a fair share of adversity in his quest for regular NHL duty with the Toronto Maple Leafs.
First, came a litany of injuries at inopportune times that stalled any built momentum toward cementing a full-time role with the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Next, he didn't make the Leafs opening night lineup last season. He eventually found his way onto the ice and went on to play in a career-high 56 games, setting personal bests in goals (14), assists (13), and points (27). (Stats courtesy of HockeyReference.com)
Robertson achieved those personal milestones without attaining the full trust of former Leafs' coach Sheldon Keefe. He was sometimes bounced from the lineup or saw limited time on the ice, almost always in a bottom-six role.
Nick Robertson Needs to Bide His Time With the Toronto Maple Leafs
All of it led to frustration from the promising winger, culminating in a trade request. Robertson is a restricted free agent who was extended a qualifying offer by the Maple Leafs. He reportedly told the team he had no intention of signing it and would like to leave the organization.
One can empathize with Robertson. He finally avoided the injury bug last season but saw limited ice at even strength or on special teams. He also wasn't given a chance to play with the team's best players on the top two lines.
Robertson must look at the Leafs stacked group of forwards and wonder if he'll ever be able to showcase his skills.
Auston Matthews, William Nylander, Mitch Marner, John Tavares, Matthew Knies, and the emerging Bobby McMann are ahead of him on the depth chart. Max Domi's success with Matthews last season plus his versatility and experience has also bumped him ahead of Robertson.
Perhaps, Robertson looks at that list of players and sees little chance of a promotion. Despite the obstacles, the young winger should be patient and remain with the Maple Leafs for this season.
The Benefits of Robertson Remaining With the Leafs
With Berube hired to replace Keefe, the opportunity for a fresh start is there for every player. A new beginning awaits. Robertson can show the new coach that he deserves a bigger role by earning it with his play, starting in training camp.
Robertson's offensive talent can't be ignored. Thirteen of his goals last year were scored at even strength with an average time-on-ice of just over eleven minutes per game. That's a goals-per-minute rating equal to what 40 goal scorer William Nylander accomplished.
McMann passed Robertson on the Maple Leafs depth chart last season, but he must prove that last season wasn't a fluke. He brings size that the smooth-skating Robertson lacks, but should he stop scoring he could be removed from the top two lines.
Another consideration for Robertson is the futures of Tavares and Marner. Both players are unrestricted free agents in 2025. Should the Leafs falter again this coming season, the status quo will unlikely remain. One, or both, could be gone.
Robertson's best option is to return to the Toronto Maple Leafs and make the best of a new start with Berube at the helm. Show that he can be trusted defensively, continue to score, and take advantage of any chances to play higher in the lineup when injuries occur.
Leafs general manager Brad Treliving is rightfully hesitant to part with Robertson. The team needs contributions from its younger talent. It may be difficult for Robertson to envision, but the year ahead could provide the opportunity he seeks.