Maple Leafs Reportedly Holding Onto Nick Robertson For Specific Reason
Photo credit: Dan Hamilton Imagn Images
Nick Robertson's name has been in trade rumours for over a year, but the Leafs are in no rush to move him for one specific reason, according to TSN's Darren Dreger.
Skating on the top line last Saturday, Robertson scored for the fifth time in six games when returning to the lineup after being a healthy scratch.
The opportunity came with William Nylander being sidelined with a lower-body injury that he sustained in Friday's loss to the Buffalo Sabres.
Showcase, Opportunity or Forced Decision?
When it was revealed that Robertson was going to play on the top line this past Saturday, there was plenty of speculation around the reasoning. Was it to showcase him in a top-six role to up his trade value? Out of necessity due to injuries? Or was it because his play actually warranted it?
Given he was shuffled down the lineup for Tuesday's win over the Calgary Flames, the latter two reasons are the most logical.
The Leafs and GM Brad Treliving are in no rush to move the former second-round pick, noting that they believe he has a role on this team during training camp.
Did The Lukas Reichel Trade Hurt Nick Robertson's Value?
Last week, the Canucks sent a fourth-round pick to the Blackhawks in exchange for Lukas Reichel -- who, like Robertson in the past, was looking for a fresh start.
The 23-year-old had 22 points in 70 games with the Hawks last season, but was off to a torrid start before being traded with 4 points in 5 games. Robertson, on the other hand, had 15 goals and 22 points in 69 games last season, but has just 2 points through 9 games this season.
Darren Dreger Reveals Leafs Are in No Rush to Move Robertson
Ahead of Tuesday's game, TSN's Darren Dreger revealed that despite previous reports, there are teams that have shown a genuine interest in acquiring the California native. GM Brad Treliving, however, is in no rush to give him away for less than what he is asking.
"He would've been traded by now if the Leafs just wanted to get rid of him; I do think that there are teams across the league that are intrigued by his capability."
Considering there is interest in Robertson, it shouldn't be hard for Treliving to make a deal if he feels the need to finally pull the trigger.
However, with Robertson's improved defensive play and the Leafs battling injuries, I think it might be a mistake to move Robertson until they get what they're looking for.
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