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Elliotte Friedman Adds Fuel to Maple Leafs' Nicholas Robertson Speculation

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio Losada | Last updated Oct 21, 2025 11:30 AM ET

Nicholas Robertson’s situation with the Toronto Maple Leafs appears unsettled once again.

Darren Dreger first reported on TSN's "Insider Trading" that the Maple Leafs have recently re-engaged in trade discussions involving the 24-year-old winger.

On Monday, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman added fuel to the speculation, touching on it on the "32 Thoughts" podcast, calling Robertson a player “worth watching” as Toronto looks to resolve his future.

“I think Nick Robertson in Toronto, that’s another one that I think the Maple Leafs are trying to solve,” Friedman said. “I think people kind of recognize it’s time. And so, we’ll see if they can find something there.”

Monday morning 32 Thoughts news, analysis, information & interview podcast with Jonathan Toews

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— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) October 20, 2025

Dreger’s report noted that general manager Brad Treliving has spoken with multiple teams showing interest in Robertson, who continues to seek a more defined and larger NHL role.

According to The Athletic, both the Pittsburgh Penguins, led by former Leafs general manager Kyle Dubas, and the Columbus Blue Jackets have expressed interest, as Columbus has "at least taken a call on the player.”

The TSN reporter described the situation as “a tough spot” given Toronto’s forward depth and suggested a change of scenery may benefit the player.

“The 24-year-old finds himself one more time in a very familiar spot with the Maple Leafs,” Dreger said. “He’s hoping for a larger role, an opportunity in the National Hockey League. Maybe it’s time to give him a fresh start somewhere else.”

Sep 26, 2024; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs forward Nick Robertson (89) pursues the play against the Montreal Canadiens in the third period at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn ImagesDan Hamilton-Imagn Images

Robertson addressed the trade rumors after practice last week, downplaying the speculation surrounding him.

“Honestly, I don’t know. I don’t even follow that stuff,” Robertson said. “I just take it day by day. You know, in this business, anything can happen. I’m here playing and doing the best I can and trying to be a good teammate and play well.”

Robertson, who requested a trade in 2024 before signing a one-year, $1.825 million deal in August, has one assist through six games this season while averaging just over 11 minutes per night.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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