Training camp is coming up, and this Toronto Maple Leafs forward remains unsigned. Negotiations with Nicholas Robertson are still ongoing. Over the last little while, TSN insiders Chris Johnston and Pierre LeBrun have provided updates on the matter.
"He would still prefer a change of address."@PierreVLeBrun discusses the storylines around Nick Robertson's future with the Maple Leafs and the status of seeking a new team. #LeafsForever pic.twitter.com/jJjrgmH4ds
— OverDrive (@OverDrive1050) September 5, 2024
Nick Robertson Remains an RFA
Earlier in the offseason, Robertson requested a trade out of Toronto. He’s a restricted free agent, meaning that general manager Brad Treliving has some leverage in these negotiations with Robertson. However, at this point in time, the Maple Leafs winger is set on the idea of being traded. According to TSN analyst Mike Johnson, Robertson believes in his idea of being traded for one major reason. The issue with the Robertson negotiations is not because of money or his salary. It is strictly about his role and playing time in Toronto. Robertson wants a top-six forward role, and he believes that he is ready for that opportunity. Although, at this point in time of the offseason, many teams have their top-six forward groups prepared for the upcoming season. Therefore, there aren’t many teams that can grant his wish and offer him that position.
Ironically, one of those teams that might have a spot for Robertson is the Toronto Maple Leafs. Toronto’s roster has a lot of strengths, but one of their weaknesses on paper is their left wing position, and that’s where Robertson plays. It seems to be the perfect situation for the former Peterborough Pete. Especially now that the Leafs have a new head coach in Craig Berube, there is a new opportunity there for Robertson. Despite all these factors, it still seems that Robertson and his agent Pat Brisson won’t budge in negotiations and, “would still prefer a change of address.” Robertson is skilled, so all he needs is offensive opportunities.
Robertson’s Time in Toronto Thus Far
So far in his career, Robertson has had limited playing time. He has been up and down between the AHL and NHL. A big reason for this is Robertson had a two-way contract, allowing him to be sent down without going through waivers. Therefore, if former bench boss Sheldon Keefe ever had a dilemma between two players to make the roster, Robertson would take the fall, because of his contract. It’s understandable as to why he is frustrated, the 22-year-old (to be 23 in less than a week) is a talented player.
Last season was the most he’s played in one campaign. In 56 games he scored 14 goals and 27 points. That put him on pace to score 20 goals and nearly 40 points, had he played a full 82-game season. However, given his size, management may hesitate to use him for a full season. He’s had a handful of injuries over the last three years or so. For instance, last season was the first time he’s been able to play a full healthy season. After only playing a total of 87 NHL games, there’s still some uncertainties with Robertson, and that could also play a factor in these negotiations. The body-of-work still isn’t there for the young California native.
RFA’s Going Down to the Wire
Robertson isn’t the only one showing stubbornness in negotiations this offseason. There are several talented players who are restricted free agents and haven’t agreed to deals yet. Some examples include, Moritz Seider and Lucas Raymond of the Detroit Red Wings. As well as Jeremy Swayman of the Boston Bruins and several more. While there have been reports about progress on all these deals, they haven’t been completed. The reason could be because of the rise in the salary cap. This season the cap went up to $88M, that’s $4.5M more than last season.
Robertson’s negotiations and situation a little different compared to other RFA’s. The others are more interested in figuring out the term of their contracts and their salary. As for Robertson, is more of a hockey-related issue rather than a financial one.
Main Photo Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports
