"The Maple Leafs' ridiculous number of injuries forced Craig Berube to get a little creative. On Wednesday night in Columbus, put Nick Robertson on the top line with Auston Matthews and Bobby McMann. McMann and Robertson weren't on most people's minds for the top line at the outset of the season. But injuries have a way of changing plans. Robertson actually had a good game. He scored a goal and registered an assist in over 17 minutes of ice time."
"Most importantly, Robertson didn't quit. He continued to push even when the game was 6-1. He was rewarded for his efforts by getting a goal late in the game. Robertson knew he got a huge opportunity, even if it was due to injuries. But hey, we all get our chance, right? Robertson made the most of it. That situation means that the Maple Leafs should give Robertson another shot alongside Auston Matthews, even when William Nylander returns."
"Having Robertson on the left side with Nylander on the right could actually be an interesting combination. Robertson looked determined, digging for pucks and fighting alongside the board. That sort of motivation is what the Maple Leafs have lacked all season long. So, what do the Maple Leafs have to lose at this point by giving Robertson a shot? Sometimes, the most obvious answers stare us in the face. But because of that very fact, we are unable to see them."
Injury issues forced a lineup change that placed Nick Robertson on the top line with Auston Matthews and Bobby McMann. Robertson produced a goal and an assist in over 17 minutes, showing persistent effort even in a lopsided game. The display combined determination, board play and puck digging that the team has lacked. The performance creates a case for keeping Robertson on a Matthews line when William Nylander returns, or trying Robertson with Nylander on the right. Trade interest in Robertson still exists, and a strong showing could increase his value to other teams given his age and upside.
Read at Editor In Leaf
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