What is it with the Winnipeg Jets organization and sticking knees out? Earlier this season it was Neal Pionk on Rasmus Sandin and last week it was Pierre Luc Dubois on Alexander Kerfoot. This time it's Jets prospect and Manitoba Moose defenceman Dylan Samberg who took Nick Robertson out at the knees.
The 20-year-old winger was flying up the boards in the second period of Sunday's game between the Toronto Marlies and the Manitoba Moose when Samberg stuck a knee out as Robertson tried to streak past him along the boards. It was easily avoidable as Samberg could have simply taken away Robertson's space my moving his body 12 inches to his left, which leads us to believe this was an intentional dirty act. Robertson struggled to get to the bench after the hit, which of course went uncalled.
There was hope when Robertson skated off at the end of the second period under his own power, and a great sigh of relief when he took to the ice for the third period. From the looks of it, Robertson was lucky enough to escape with a Charlie horse on this one. Great news for the Leafs prospect, as he's already suffered a broken leg this season. Now I'm not so sure its a coincidence that that injury happened against the Manitoba Moose as well.
Robertson's wicked shot and his incredibly high compete level have made him a coveted prospect for the Leafs, but his habit of getting injured has hindered his development. At 20 years old, the Arcadia, California native can't afford to spend more time on the IR when the Leafs may need him come playoff time. Until then, it may be time to schedule an meeting between Samberg and Mr. Rich Clune. It seems the youngster may need a reminder of what happens when you throw cheap shots on Marlies players.
