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New Leafs Writer Jay on Nick Robertson’s Future in Toronto. |
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What's Next for Nick Robertson and the Maple Leafs?
Nick Robertson remains an enigma. He possesses a high-end NHL shot and NHL-level speed, yet he still can't secure a permanent spot in the Toronto Maple Leafs' lineup. At 23 years old, the expectation was that Robertson would be an everyday NHLer. Instead, after playing 65 regular-season games, the forward only cracked the lineup for three of the team's 14 playoff contests.
Robertson is a clear remnant of the Kyle Dubas era: a skilled, yet undersized, forward who can score but provides very little value in his own end. It's becoming apparent that despite his NHL skill set, Robertson may not be a fit for the team's current direction under coach Craig Berube. This week, Robertson took a step toward controlling his own future and possibly expediting his departure from Toronto.
By filing for salary arbitration before the deadline, Robertson has initiated a process that puts pressure on the Leafs. The move ensures he cannot be signed to an offer sheet by another team, but more importantly, it sets a timeline for contract negotiations. Given his performance, his arbitration award is unlikely to exceed the league's "walk-away" threshold, meaning the Maple Leafs would be obligated to sign him at the awarded salary, whether they want to or not.
Last season, Robertson scored 15 goals and added 7 assists while averaging just 12 minutes of ice time per night. His usage tells a story: he started over 60% of his shifts in the offensive zone, a clear indication that the coaching staff was hesitant to deploy him in defensive situations. The biggest challenge has been his inability to find a role in the Leafs' top six, and he has struggled to adapt to the defensive responsibilities of a bottom-six player.
While the potential departure of a top forward could open up ice time, the fundamental question remains: does Robertson fit into Craig Berube's system?
Although he has the raw talent to be an effective NHL player, it's hard to see a long-term role for him in Toronto under the current structure. A trade seems to be the most probable outcome as the Leafs look to retool their top-six forward group. The real question is, what is his trade value? Would his former GM, Kyle Dubas, value him enough to include him as a key piece in a potential trade for a player like Bryan Rust?
With an arbitration date looming, the clock is ticking for both Robertson and the Maple Leafs to determine what comes next.
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