The Leafs Need To Avoid A Nick Robertson Situation With Another Of Their RFAs

Last off-season, Nicholas Robertson requested a trade after an up-and-down season that often saw him as the odd man out and sitting in the press box when the Leafs were healthy.

Ultimately, Robertson and the Leafs agreed to a one-year deal days before training camp and were able to avoid arbitration this year, agreeing to another one-year contract.

It appears as though the Leafs were able to smooth things over with the 23-year-old forward, but are now being faced with a similar situation with 2022 fourth-round pick Dennis Hildeby, who is still unsigned late into the summer.

The 6'7 Swedish goaltender was issued a qualifying offer, but remains unsigned as Hildeby and the Leafs appear to be at an impasse on a new contract.

Bursting onto the North American scene with the Toronto Marlies in the 2023-24 season, Hildeby went 21-11-7 with a 2.41GAA and .913 save percentage. His performance, along with injuries to Joseph Woll and Anthony Stolarz last season, allowed him to play in six games for the Leafs.

His numbers weren't great, but that NHL experience and the fact the Leafs do not have a veteran third goaltender on their roster currently appear to have led to the two sides having differing opinions on his worth.

If the Leafs aren't careful, they could be headed towards another messy situation and could end up being forced to deal what many consider a viable, long-term starting goaltender for the Leafs in the future.