The Toronto Maple Leafs Trade Rumor Mill

Nicholas Robertson

The rumor surrounding Nicholas Robertson is that the Leafs are looking to trade him for immediate help before the NHL trade deadline. With the Leafs not wanting to trade Matthew Knies or prospects such as Fraser Minten and Easton Cowan, Robertson could become the odd man out. Most teams considered "sellers" at the deadline want draft picks and young players. It is what a GM needs for a rebuild.

Robertson is a 22-year-old winger with great speed. He has registered seven goals and eight assists for 15 points in 32 games. However, it often appears that Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe does not favor Robertson as much as some think he should. Many fans believe Robertson should get more time playing in the top six. Those fans might be right, but if Keefe isn't going to do it, can the Leafs trade Robertson for something they need? The answer is probably yes.

I would hate to see the Leafs lose a young player who is still waivers exempt, but players are waiting behind Robertson for their shot at the NHL lineup. He has played 63 games over four seasons but still has not landed a permanent spot in the lineup under Sheldon Keefe. Treliving might as well follow through on this rumor and move Robertson for a player who fits a role the Leafs need.

I'm sure many teams are willing to take Robertson and give him the ice time he is not getting with the Leafs. Having him find success on another team would hurt a little, but it will depend on what the Leafs get in return for him. I can see this rumor coming true.