Leafs Coach Craig Berube Reveals the Truth Behind Why Young Forward Secured His Roster Spot

Heading into the first game of the NHL Playoffs, there were a few things that needed to be ironed out in regards to the Toronto Maple Leafs lineup. Last night head coach Craig Berube all but confirmed his starting goaltender and today he did the same for his final spot in the team's top-9.

There were certainly conversation being had on whether or not the Leafs would throw veteran forward Max Pacioretty into the ring once he became fully healthy. That would have meant that he would be coming into the lineup over Nicholas Robertson, who was having himself a very solid season.

Beyond the fact that Pacioretty has been sidelined for over 2 months, Robertson had finally carved himself a niche into the Leafs lineup, which was something that he had been trying to do for well over 2 years.

With the club preparing for their big game against the Ottawa Senators, Berube not only confirmed Robertson's placement in the lineup but he actually revealed his reasoning.

"Obviously he scored some goals. But, you know, it's his work ethic and his competitiveness that really stuck out to me."

Robertson's skill-set was never in question after his distinguished junior career as well as his stints with the Toronto Marlies in the AHL. However, he was never able to translate that same level of success to the NHL-level.

The disgruntled forward also received the cold shoulder from previous head coach Sheldon Keefe, which prompted him to request a trade this past summer. GM Brad Treliving stuck to his guns, kept him on the roster, and allowed Robertson to reinvent his game with a new coach behind the bench.

He scored a career-high 15 goals in 69 games this season to go along with 79 hits and 33 blocked shots in 12:00 ATOI. One of the moving parts of a formidable trio, Robertson alongside Bobby McMann and Max Domi fortified the Leafs third line, allowing Berube to unleash his top-6 players without any concern.

Heading into Game 1, Robertson will be given the green light to play his game, which now has a physical component to it. Expect more of the same gritty play from the 23-year-old as he looks to get on the board early and help his chances of solidifying a playoff spot down the road.