Writer proposes the idea of trading Nick Robertson while his value is high; here's why that would be a mistake
After scoring two goals in his season debut yesterday, including the OT winner, Toronto Maple Leafs forward Nick Robertson is starting to turn heads in what will hopefully be his first full season as a Leaf. With the majority of reactions being positive and with plenty of praise towards Robertson, Michael Traikos of the Toronto Sun is proposing that the Leafs should shop him for a defenseman. Perhaps this is why the Toronto media gets so much criticism.
Robertson, a left-handed winger, was drafted 53rd overall in the second round of the 2019 draft. The 21-year-old has only amassed 17 total NHL games due to a history of injuries in both the AHL and NHL, which slowed down his development. It took Robertson a lot of grinding to develop into the player he is now. Many feared Robertson would struggle to reach his potential with the Leafs, but a lot of those question marks have been answered with his dominant showing in last night's 3-2 OT victory. Robertson not only appears ready, but he looks like he could be an impact player for the Leafs.
Last night's performance showcased some new aspects that Robertson has added to his game: Explosive offense, consistency (shift-to-shift), the undeniable ability to finish and the ability to create his own opportunities through his speed and tenacity with the puck along the wall.
With the option of keeping Robertson on the Leafs' roster full-time now a viable one, this will be his first actual chance to perform in the lineup for more than a handful of games. Robertson has yet been given the opportunity to showcase what he's all about and what he can bring to the table for an entire season. One thing you will get from Robertson compared to other players is that the kid never takes a shift off. He's a hard-working player who knows that the odds are stacked against him because of his size. He skates well with the puck, has a quick, hard release and has loads of potential. Rocket Richard winner and elite goal scorer Auston Matthews has already raved about Robertson's shot. How foolish would it be to trade this guy, especially with a shining endorsement from your top player?
Opting to trade Robertson after finally showing game-breaking ability is preposterous. There is no sense in dealing him for scraps or a short-term replacement defenseman. It's likely that the Leafs' blueline will slowly get healthier and return to its usual self within some time. Not only that, but the Leafs' D corps has largely been pretty good to start the season. Robertson is a clear NHLer who has star potential written all over him. He's a player that they took the time to develop the right way and one that could fit into their system nicely with a cap-friendly price tag attached to him for no less than this year and next. Come trade deadline time, Robertson should not be in the conversation to move and I sincerely doubt he will be. You know you've got a good one though when other teams come calling.
Credit: hockeydb.com
| POLL | ||
OCTOBRE 21 | 391 ANSWERS Writer proposes the idea of trading Nick Robertson while his value is high; here's why that would be a mistake Should the Leafs explore the idea of trading Robertson for a defenseman? | ||
| No way | 253 | 64.7 % |
| Yes, depending on the defenseman | 75 | 19.2 % |
| I'd understand if they did, but I want him to stay | 63 | 16.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
