With the Toronto Maple Leafs facing injuries, there is going to have to be a shakeup with the lineup.
With Matthews, Hakanpaa, and Pacioretty all hurt along with players like Dewar returning, Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube must make some decisions (Player availability from Dailyfaceoff.com).
There are a couple of players I could see deserving a run in the top six. McMann has been solid this year and I wouldn't be against him getting a run in the top six.
The player I want to see actually get a run in the top six is Nick Robertson. But of course, in the first two games without Pacioretty, the Leafs played McMann in the top six and scratched Robertson for the second game.
Nick Robertson needs a real run in the top-six
I have been very honest about Robertson this season. Part of that might be his trade request still being in my mind, but I don't think he looked that great.
For a guy who was so adamant he wanted out of Toronto because of a lack of opportunity Robertson looks really mediocre with the opportunity he’s getting. #Leafs #LeafsForever
— Matteo Giuliano (@MatteoG29_) October 22, 2024
While I don't think he might've earned it as much as a guy like Bobby McMann, I do think Robertson playing in the top six will be more beneficial for the team.
McMann plays a bottom six style, being a bigger guy than Robertson and also having a more physical playing style. Roberston also isn't the best guy to have on the ice in defensive situations, so giving him more offensive opportunities in the top six should help get the best out of him.
This team is better when they can get goal contributions from Robertson and playing him in the bottom six gives him fewer scoring opportunities. He is not good enough to drive his own line, so you need to pair him with guys who could like William Nylander.
Robertson played 56 games last year, scoring 14 goals and 13 assists for a total of 27 points. This year he has played 14 games, only scoring one goal (Stats from NHL.com).
Leafs winger Nick Robertson, who has one goal (& one disallowed goal) in 14 games:
— Mark Masters (@markhmasters) November 12, 2024
"I don’t have a good relationship with the puck right now (smile). But I’m happy with my game … finding ways to be confident without scoring"
Getting Robertson going takes the pressure off the core four as they're not relied on as much. He is a talented player with a great shot and I thought he would be a lock for 20 goals this season.
You hear people saying you have to earn your spot in the lineup and I agree with that. What I don't agree with is putting players in a position where it is very difficult to succeed while better options are available.
Finding a role in the top six for Robertson helps balance the lineup and gets a talented, young player going. He needs more support, and we have seen McMann thrive in the bottom six already. Knowing you can rely on McMann is huge for this team.