Despite not currently being on the Maple Leafs’ roster, GM Brad Treliving remains optimistic about Nick Robertson’s future with the team. Robertson was recently assigned to the Marlies to make room for Calle Jarnkrok, who was activated from injured reserve. It’s worth noting that Robertson was one of the only two players on the Maple Leafs’ roster who didn’t require waivers to be sent down to the AHL.
Maple Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe emphasized that Robertson’s reassignment shouldn’t be seen as a reflection of his performance. Keefe encouraged Robertson to continue his development and acknowledged that his absence from the roster was primarily a result of circumstances, rather than a judgment on his abilities.
The decision to send Nick Robertson to the Marlies was primarily driven by roster management and the return of Calle Jarnkrok, a talented player who was coming back from injury. Coach Keefe explained that there are other players in similar situations to Robertson who have performed admirably, but due to the way their roles align at the moment, they are not being removed from the roster. Ultimately, the decision was more about the current numbers and roster dynamics than a reflection of Robertson’s performance or potential.
According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, the decision to send Nick Robertson down to the Marlies was primarily driven by the fact that he does not require waivers to be assigned to the AHL. Since being sent down, Robertson has been working with the Maple Leafs’ development staff, indicating that he is likely preparing for a return to the NHL. Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving expressed his belief that Robertson is still part of the team and expects him to have a role with the Maple Leafs in the future. Treliving added that the team has added depth through trades but looks forward to having Robertson back with the team soon.
Nick Robertson has played in 41 out of the 63 games for the Toronto Maple Leafs this season. During that time, he has recorded eight goals and 11 assists, primarily while playing in the team’s bottom six forward group. Robertson is currently in the final year of his entry-level contract, which he signed with the Maple Leafs in September 2019. The contract carries an average annual value of $796,667. As of July 1, Robertson will become a restricted free agent, meaning the Maple Leafs will have the ability to retain his services by extending a qualifying offer.
