GREATER DONE DEAL: Maple Leafs reportedly blockbuster trade sign a young, goalscoring winger whos more greater than John Tavares

It’s that time of year again on the hockey calendar, when a flurry of trades is expected across the league. As is often the case, the Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly open to moving young winger Nick Robertson.

According to Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos on Friday morning, the Leafs are either already in discussions or looking to engage with other teams about dealing the 23-year-old. Robertson just wrapped up his most active season with Toronto since being drafted six years ago, appearing in 69 games and posting 15 goals and 22 points.

There are several clear reasons why the Leafs might be willing to part with Robertson, despite his flashes of offensive promise:

• Past trade request: Last offseason, Robertson reportedly asked for a trade due to frustrations over limited playing time. While he returned on a one-year deal with a better attitude, that previous request could still be influencing the Leafs’ thinking.
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• Roster and cap priorities: Toronto is navigating big contract situations involving stars like Mitch Marner and John Tavares, as well as younger players such as Matthew Knies. With tight cap space, the team may view Robertson as expendable.
• Unsettled role: Even with a career-high in games played, Robertson averaged only 12 minutes of ice time and was a healthy scratch for much of the playoffs. His shot volume and scoring ability show upside, but questions about his defensive play and coaching trust remain.
• Arbitration factor: Robertson has arbitration rights this offseason, which could complicate contract negotiations. A trade might be the simplest way to avoid a drawn-out process.

Given all of that, it’s understandable why the Leafs might consider moving on. Still, should they? Robertson is likely to sign a very affordable deal this summer—Evolving-Hockey projects something like two years at around $4.35 million total. That’s a bargain for a potential 20-goal scorer, especially compared to what such players cost on the open market.

If he can round out the rest of his game, Robertson could be a valuable depth scorer. Is that value best realized in Toronto? Probably. But the Leafs appear to be leaning in another direction for now.