The Maple Leafs Nicholas Robertson is a name that has been featured in trade rumors daily of late. The recently signed 23 year old inked a fresh 1 year $1.825 million bridge deal this summer theoretically extending his stay in Toronto as he and the Leafs avoided salary arbitration.
However, it appears clear the Leafs are not married to Robertson despite the contract extension as it is known the team wants to make more moves before the start of the season in order to bolster their odds in the post Mitch Marner era. Unfortunately for them at the moment, they do not have the facilities to do so with about $1.9 million in cap space. Sacrifices need to be made and Nick Robertson may need to be the lamb.
The question is which team(s) would be the best fit for Robertson? Jacob Punturi of “Breakaway” listed 3 teams as ones to look out for in regards to a potential future Nick Roberston landing spot: The Chicago Blackhawks, Detroit Red Wings and Pittsburgh Penguins.
Chicago Blackhawks
The Hawks would make a lot of sense for Nick Robertson. He has struggled to fight for playing time on some loaded Leafs teams. On a young rebuilding Chicago team, there is no doubt he would get more ice time and a greater chance to unleash his untapped potential.
Detroit Red Wings
Another Original 6 team via the Detroit Red Wings would be an interesting destination for Robertson. Unlike Chicago, Detroit is expected to win now and a Robertson acquisition would provide more depth to a Wings offense that could use it.
Pittsburgh Penguins
The retooling Penguins are a team that is looking to shed veteran talent and bring in more youth to their lineup as the team is visibly entering a new direction as the Crosby/Malkin era gradually comes to a close.
We’ll see if any of these 3 squads lands the coveted forward or if a surprise team throws their hat in the ring as the season approaches.
