NHL Insider Advises Maple Leafs to Keep Faith in Nick Robertson
Nearly two weeks into the 2025–26 NHL season, the Toronto Maple Leafs are already facing roster management challenges. The team’s depth has created a situation where capable players are being left out of the lineup, with healthy scratches becoming a frequent occurrence.
For example, despite scoring three goals early in the campaign, Calle Jarnkrok recently found himself in the press box after Steven Lorentz was reinserted into the lineup. With an abundance of healthy players and Scott Laughton expected to return soon, Toronto may soon be forced to make a move or two to balance the roster.
That situation has reignited speculation that forward Nick Robertson could be on the trade block, as the young winger has struggled to find his rhythm so far this season.
However, NHL insider Nick Kypreos believes that trading Robertson would be a mistake. Speaking on The Real Kyper and Bourne Show, Kypreos made it clear that he sees more value in keeping Robertson than moving him for a minimal return.
“There is no reason to just give Nick Robertson away,” Kypreos said. “Why do you want him traded? What are you getting in return? He makes the team faster — my team gets slower when he leaves. He’s young, energetic, and can still shoot the puck.”
Kypreos emphasized that Toronto shouldn’t sacrifice depth for a low draft pick or short-term fix. With the departure of Mitch Marner over the summer, the Maple Leafs are expected to lose some offensive firepower, and Robertson’s scoring touch could help offset that decline.
While new arrivals Dakota Joshua, Nicolas Roy, and Matias Maccelli add balance, none possess Robertson’s pure goal-scoring ability. The 24-year-old has recorded 14 and 15 goals over the past two seasons and continues to show flashes of high-end offensive potential — consistency being his main hurdle.
Given that Toronto is still searching for the ideal winger combinations alongside Auston Matthews, Matthew Knies, John Tavares, and William Nylander, now might be the right time to give Robertson a more extended opportunity.
If he flourishes, the Leafs gain a valuable long-term asset. If not, they can revisit trade discussions later — ideally with better leverage. For now, Kypreos’ advice seems clear: be patient, and give Robertson another shot to prove his worth.