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Former Maple Leafs Player Makes Case to Keep Nicholas Robertson in Toronto

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio Losada | Last updated Oct 20, 2025 12:37 PM ET

Trade talk around Toronto Maple Leafs forward Nicholas Robertson has resurfaced, but not everyone believes it should lead to action.

Darren Dreger reported on TSN’s "Insider Trading" last week that general manager Brad Treliving has spoken with other clubs about the 24-year-old winger.

Dreger said Robertson is again in “a familiar spot,” pushing for a larger role while the Leafs weigh options amid their crowded forward group.

“He’s hoping for a larger role, an opportunity in the National Hockey League,” Dreger said. “Given the depth that the Maple Leafs have, it’s a tough spot for Robertson. Maybe it’s time to give him a fresh start somewhere else.”

“There is no reason to just give Nick Robertson away.”@RealKyper responds to recent trade murmurs around Robertson with @jtbourne & @SamAMcKee. #LeafsForever

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— Sportsnet 590 The FAN (@FAN590) October 16, 2025

Robertson signed a one-year, $1.825 million extension this offseason just one year after he did the same following a trade request during the 2024 offseason.

Sportsnet analyst Nick Kypreos pushed back strongly on the idea of moving Robertson during Thursday's "Real Kyper & Bourne" show, arguing the Leafs would be hurting their depth for little return.

“I’m not trading Nick Robertson,” said Kypreos, who finished his playing career with the Maple Leafs. “Why do you want Nick Robertson being traded right now? What are you trading him for? The fourth-rounder does what for me? You’re giving up depth for a fourth-round pick, which is useless to me.

“There's no reason right now you should give Nick Robertson away.”

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Nicholas Robertson (89) pivots away from a body check.Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

Robertson downplayed the speculation when asked by Toronto Sun reporter Terry Koshan.

“Rumors of what?” Robertson said. “Honestly, I don’t know. I don’t even follow that stuff. 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.”

According to The Athletic, the Pittsburgh Penguins and Columbus Blue Jackets have shown interest. Robertson has one assist in six games this season while averaging just over 11 minutes per night.

The Leafs are 3–2–1 heading into Tuesday’s home game against the New Jersey Devils, with puck drop set for 7 p.m. ET.

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

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