The Toronto Maple Leafs are not in a rush to deal for unhappy forward Nicholas Robertson, but they may be able to do it by finding a trade partner in the Calgary Flames.
The Athletic’s Julian McKenzie calls the Flames “a team to watch on the trade market.” The Maple Leafs winger was one of McKenzie’s eleven possible trade targets for the Flames that matched the “young player” paradigm.
A player between the ages of 18 and 23 would be ideal addition for the Calgary Flames. Thus, we compiled a list of objectives.
The majority of them may be traded for. Some by way of offer sheetsAmong them is one that would raise the stakes for the BoA.
On July 4, McKenzie commented, “I think Robertson is at least worth a look.” It’s a different story whether or not the Flames take action.
With his three-year, $2.39 million entry-level contract set to expire at the beginning of July, Robertson became a restricted free agent after the Leafs tendered a qualifying offer to him on July 1.
However, Robertson had told the Leafs that he would not be signing an extension before he became a free agent. McKenzie then listed him as a possible trade target for the Flames.
Robertson may not feel compelled to leave the Toronto Maple Leafs, but he undoubtedly wants to play hockey somewhere else. He can score goals and move a little bit, something the Flames would like. Robertson’s ultimate goal is to be given another chance to play more steady minutes.
Theoretically, Blake Coleman and Michael Backlund might be available, but it might depend on how a few other pieces fit together. Although it might not be as consistent as his time in Toronto, he would still be more of a middle-six option, McKenzie noted.
Nicholas Robertson Desires to Leave Toronto
Chris Johnston of TSN reports that restricted free agent forward Robertson told the Maple Leafs he would not be signing with them again.
RFA Nick Robertson has reportedly told the team that he would prefer to be traded and has no intention of signing with the Leafs again this summer, according to sources.
Johnston wrote on June 30 that “sources say that RFA Nick Robertson has no plans to re-sign with the #leafs this summer and has informed the team that he would like to be traded.”
In order to avoid free agency, Robertson requested that Toronto transfer his negotiation rights; however, the Maple Leafs chose to make him a qualifying offer, casting doubt on his future.
Robertson, who was selected by the Maple Leafs with the 53rd overall choice in the 2019 NHL draft, has played for the team in 87 regular-season contests and 10 postseason contests. Between regular- and post-season games this 2023–24 season, Robertson has scored 35 points in total.
Robertson, who turns 23 in September, just finished his best-ever season with Toronto. With a plus-4 plus/minus, he participated in 56 games, totaling 27 points from 14 goals and 13 assists.
Following his return as a healthy scratch, Nick Robertson has scored in four of the last five games.
Bonus: Out of camp, he was assigned to the Marlies and had an assist in his season debut.
Robertson hinted about his possible departure from Toronto in an interview with Sportsnet’s Luke Fox at the conclusion of the 2024 regular season.
No. When Fox inquired about contract extension negotiations on April 11, Robertson responded, “Nothing major.” It is my inaugural [negotiation]. Since I have no idea how this process operates, I can’t say that I’m concerned about it right now. But nothing has been spoken to me. I merely have fun. However, it’s kind of pleasant to know that [my agent] will take care of it. Let him worry about it; I want to play.
Can Toronto Give Up and Make a Trade for Robertson?
In a video chat on July 1, Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving was questioned regarding Robertson’s alleged trade request.
GM of the Leafs Brad Treliving on Robertson:
“I am aware that there was some tension between you and Nick, but we still consider Nick to be a very good player. This is a fantastic opportunity for Nick. He must be a capable player for us.”
Treliving remarked, “I obviously have known that there was some frustration on his behalf with Nick.” “We consider Nick to be a very good player. He has a great opportunity here, and we need him to perform well.”I won’t engage in any speculative discussion or open debate. We will just leave it at that and carry on.
Although Treliving did not say that a trade request was made, he did say that he was “somewhat frustrated” with Robertson.
Treliving didn’t seem persuaded, though, that the young forward should be replaced anytime soon. Either that, or the general manager was just attempting to keep Robertson’s reputation and value high in the eyes of possible trading partners.
The Maple Leafs ensured themselves the right to match any contract offer made to Robertson by any other team by extending the qualifying option.
It would make sense for Toronto’s management to attempt to come to an extension agreement if head coach Craig Berube can give Robertson more playing time and a bigger role, considering his familiarity with the squad and vice versa.
It’s also important to remember that Toronto lost free agent Tyler Bertuzzi on July 1 to the Chicago Blackhawks. If Robertson re-signs, he might fill the void that was created in the lineup.
More chances for Robertson in Toronto may arise if the Maple Leafs can persuade Mitch Marner to waive his No-Move Clause.
Leave a Reply