"With Bobby McMann, Scott Laughton, and Nicolas Roy moved out, the door is now wide open for the 24-year-old to take advantage. In the Leafs first action post trade deadline, Berube used Robertson on the third line Saturday night against Tampa Bay, and played him 15:08, almost three minutes more than his season average."
"Robertson's a pending restricted free agent and with offseason disputes the past two summers, the first being a trade request that wasn't considered, and last season with not being offered a long-term contract, his relationship with the organization hasn't necessarily been a perfect marriage. Having a strong end to the season can help overcome these imperfections, and land Robertson a three, or four-year contract extension to stay in Toronto."
"What's likely been the most frustrating part for Robertson over the past couple of years is how much he's changed his game, and hasn't necessarily been rewarded for it. Berube's pushed the pesky winger arguably more than any other forward on the Leafs, and Robertson's gone from a very one-dimensional prospect, to an undersized winger, who isn't afraid to play a physical game."
Nick Robertson faces a pivotal moment with the Toronto Maple Leafs following the trade deadline. General manager Brad Treliving's asset sales have created increased playing time opportunities for the 24-year-old forward. Robertson has struggled to establish a consistent role since his 2019 draft, but recent lineup changes under coach Craig Berube now position him for expanded minutes. Robertson scored in his first post-deadline game against Tampa Bay with over 15 minutes of ice time. As a pending restricted free agent with a complicated history including a previous trade request and contract disputes, Robertson must demonstrate sustained production and impact across all three zones to earn a long-term extension and solidify his place in Toronto's future plans.
Read at TheLeafsNation
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