Nick Robertson has a surprising reaction to being scratched by the Leafs
Photo credit: NHL
To begin the new year, the Toronto Maple Leafs took to the road for three consecutive games in California. They won their first two games against the LA Kings and Anaheim Ducks and wrap up the trip tonight against the San Jose Sharks. For California native and Leafs rookie Nick Robertson, it was also a chance to see his friends and family. Unfortunately for Robertson, he spent more time with them than he would've liked to as he was a scratch for both of the Leafs first two games. He will also be watching from the press box tonight as he will be scratched for a third consecutive game.
Ahead of tonight's game, the 2019 second-round pick was asked about the recent string of scratches and he had a surprising response.
"We have so many guys that can be in the lineup. So, I think it's just more dealing with that. It's not a situation that I'm not used to. It's all mental. The game is all mental. I don't think it's anything that I'm playing bad or anything. I'm happy [with] the way I've been playing — and they said that to me. So, I think it's just more [about] coming back in and not overthinking things while you're out of the lineup."
Obviously, this is a mature approach for Robertson to take. He must be frustrated with how much time he's missed due to injury already, and spending additional time in the press box while he's healthy can really take a toll on a player from a mental standpoint.
Robertson has been able to remain healthy so far this season. He has skated in 24 games with the Leafs and has registered 5 goals and 11 points while playing 10:32 per game. Hopefully Robertson will be able to get back into game action here soon and get back onto the score sheet.
There's no telling what the future might hold for Robertson in Toronto as we approach the deadline. But if there's one thing we know for certain, it's that teams value productive players, so if Robertson can find start to rack up points with any real consistency, he'll either boost his trade value and find himself with a fresh start and perhaps more playong time or secure a spot in Toronto's top 9 moving forward.
| POLL | ||
JANVIER 6 | 831 ANSWERS Nick Robertson has a surprising reaction to being scratched by the Leafs Will Robertson be back in the lineup Tuesday? | ||
| Yes, he just needed a short reset | 399 | 48 % |
| No, he hasn't played well enough to deserve a spot | 432 | 52 % |
| List of polls | ||
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