Trade Watch: Maple Leafs Ramp Up Nick Robertson Talks With Likely Landing Spots Revealed

It's no secret that the Toronto Maple Leafs have been shopping Nick Robertson for some time now. While they haven't found the right deal yet, talks appear to be picking up, and multiple insiders suggest that Robertson could be on the move soon.

According to insiders Chris Johnston and Jonas Siegel, both the Pittsburgh Penguins and Columbus Blue Jackets are considered strong potential landing spots for Robertson.

Of the two, Pittsburgh seems like the most logical fit. With Kyle Dubas now running the Penguins, it wouldn't be surprising to see him acquire another familiar face, much like he did with Connor Dewar last season.

Robertson, who posted 15 goals and 22 points in 69 games last season, likely won't fetch a major return, but that doesn't mean he lacks value. Whether that be on the trade market or in the lineup for the Maple Leafs.

A comparable trade could be Philip Tomasino, who moved from Nashville to Pittsburgh for a fourth-round pick earlier this year. Both players are young, skilled, and searching for consistency.

Insider Nick Kypreos agrees that a fourth-round pick is a fair estimate, but questions if it's even worth trading Robertson at all. Notably, Robertson makes them faster, which is something that the Maple Leafs are already struggling with, and he's a depth piece that can score goals.

Despite his smaller 5'9 frame, Robertson has proven capable of holding a depth role, and unless Toronto needs the cap space for a bigger move, it may be smarter to hold onto him for now.