Analyst Pleads With Maple Leafs to Give Skilled Young Forward a Longer Leash This Season

As the Toronto Maple Leafs' offseason unfolds, several questions remain about who will make the opening night roster.

For 23-year-old forward Nick Robertson, the time may have finally come to step up and secure a permanent role in the lineup. Many believe it's time the team gave him more leeway to prove himself as an everyday NHL player.

TSN's Aaron Korolnek shared his thoughts on OverDrive during a recent radio hit for TSN 1050, expressing confidence in Robertson's potential, as posted on X.

Former NHLer Jason Strudwick echoed that sentiment:

Robertson recently signed a one-year deal following his arbitration hearing, earning $1.825 million for the 2025-26 season -- a significant cap hit for a player not guaranteed a full-time role.

Despite limited ice time, Robertson was productive last season, scoring 15 goals and adding 7 assists for 22 points in 69 games in a pure depth role. His offensive instincts and goal-scoring ability have never been in doubt. It's been about finding consistency and doing the little things to stay in the lineup.

With the Maple Leafs boasting a deep and competitive forward group, Robertson will have to battle players like Calle Jarnkrok and rising prospect Easton Cowan for ice time on the wing.

This season could be make-or-break for the 23-year-old. If he can't solidify a regular spot in the lineup, the Leafs may be forced to explore trade options. At his current salary, it would be tough to justify keeping him in the press box.

While fans and analysts alike hope Robertson finally makes his mark in Toronto, if things don't work out this year, it could very well be his last chance with the team.