One of the more intriguing pending restricted free agents has been traded today. Forward Nick Robertson trade news is not totally unexpected as the Toronto Maple Leafs have sent him to the Pittsburgh Penguins. In return, the Leafs receive a fourth-round draft pick from the Penguins. Let’s discuss the trade.
Nick Robertson Trade News from Leafs to Penguins
Nicholas Robertson was originally a Toronto Maple Leaf draft selection back in the second round of the 2019 NHL Entry Draft. Since that time, he has struggled to gain footing in the Leaf lineup. This deal to Pittsburgh suggests he will get more opportunity going forward, and have a better chance to prove himself. It is an exciting opportunity for Robertson.
In 234 regular season games to this point, he has 48 goals and 40 assists. He has done this in just 11:52 of average ice time. Moreover, if you dig a little deeper, his production is solid, based on that amount of time on ice, although we will add he had been getting a little more and more power play chances each year.
A Deeper Analysis of Robertson’s NHL Productivity
Prior to today’s Nick Robertson trade, in his last three seasons in Toronto, his goal totals were 14, 15, and 16, respectively. Also, he has a 12.5 shooting percentage over the course of his career. Now, the argument could also be made that this productivity has been done against lesser competition, say the opponents’ third and fourth liners. However, he has still shown to produce at a high level. The last three seasons, his goals per 60 minutes at even strength, he has been 0.9 or above.
With the trade, it was clear he wasn’t in general manager John Chayka’s long-term plans. Maybe he can find a fit on an upstart Penguins team that surprised many by making the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs.
Main Photo Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
