Reporter Proposes Intriguing Trade Idea Involving Maple Leafs' Nick Robertson

Last off-season, the 23-year-old Robertson requested a trade following a season that saw him fall out of favour with former head coach Sheldon Keefe.

The Leafs, however, did not trade the former second-round pick, and ultimately agreed on a 1-year deal that kept Robertson with the Leafs this past season.

Despite skating in 69 games under Craig Berube, Robertson saw action in just 3 playoff games for the Leafs. That, coupled with the handful of forward additions that GM Brad Treliving has made so far this summer, has led to speculation that Robertson may finally be on his way out of Toronto.

Much like last season, the Leafs and Robertson are taking their time in negotiating a new deal, but will have to come to terms before Robertson's arbitration hearing on August 3rd.

On Wednesday's edition of 'Daily Faceoff Live', reporter Matt Larkin was asked about Robertson's future with the Leafs where he suggested that while he doesn't believe a trade is imminent, the Columbus Blue Jackets would be an ideal trade partner as they are dealing with a trade request from 24-year-old Russian winger Yegor Chinakhov.

The 2020 first-round pick was not pleased with how he was treated by the Blue Jackets' coaching staff last season and requested a trade for a fresh start.

At this point in his career, Robertson is also likely wanting a fresh start on a team that will give him an opportunity in the top-six to showcase his scoring ability more consistently.

The Leafs would likely have to part with more than just Robertson to acquire Chinakhov, given that he is a former first-round pick, but at 6'1 and 200-pounds, the right winger could flourish skating in the top six with the likes of John Tavares, Auston Matthews, Matthew Knies, and William Nylander.