Nick Robertson: Future core player or key trade chip?

I want to preface this article by saying that there is nothing I'd like more than to see Nick Robertson slaying it in Toronto's top 6 this coming season. The 2019 2nd round pick has produced at every level he's played at, but just hasn't managed to find a permanent home with the big club in Toronto just yet. Of course, when looking at Robertson as a developing prospect, it's important to keep in mind he's had 2 straight seasons completely derailed by injuries. So just because he hasn't cracked the roster yet doesn't mean he won't.

The issue I see right now with Robertson joining the Leafs full time is that finding him a roster spot that plays to his strengths could prove difficult. The top line of Matthews, Marner and Bunting worked so well last season it would be difficult to break up. The second line left wing slot could work, but I'd rather see more of a physical forechecking type with Tavares and Nylander. Line 3 should be a checking line, Robertson's offensive talent would be wasted there. Having him on the 4th line is also a waste of his talent, as we've seen in his past stints with the big club. I hate to say it, but the Leafs need more size in their top 6, and unfortunately Robertson just doesn't have that. It's not a knock against him as a player, it's a question of what the Leafs need right now vs what Robertson brings to the table. Robertson is a lethal shooter and an intelligent player with a work ethic that is second to none. I still believe that he will be a very good NHLer.

Having said that, it's fast approaching time that Robertson makes the jump or gets off the proverbial pot. It's harsh, but at this point, the Leafs don't have the luxury of being patient. They need more players to graduate from the AHL and become effective, full time NHLers. Their window isn't closed yet, but it may be soon. In order to make the most of this core, they need to have players on ELC contracts contributing. If not, the Leafs need to get value out of them while they can.

Trading Robertson isn't an idea to be considered lightly. The Leafs have been burned many times in the past by trading prospects too early, Mason Marchment being the latest. If they are going to consider trading Robertson, they need to get value in return. Moving him to a rebuilding team in exchange for a player whose prime years don't fit their window would be the ideal move. Someone like Dylan Larkin in Detroit would be an example, although Robertson alone wouldn't be enough. Using him as part of that package might be the right move for the Leafs. The tough part about a deal like that is that Larkin has just one year remaining on his current deal. Could the Leafs make something work with a team like the Philadelphia Flyers for someone like Travis Konecny? Is there another team and player that makes sense to target? All questions that will need answers, perhaps as soon as this summer.