Despite recently signing a one-year, $1.825 million contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs, forward Nick Robertson remains a prominent subject of trade speculation. According to Elliotte Friedman on the "32 Thoughts" podcast, Robertson's situation is likely to persist for some time, with the Pittsburgh Penguins and Columbus Blue Jackets emerging as potential destinations.
The Maple Leafs are reportedly looking to clear cap space, making Robertson a likely candidate to be moved. Friedman suggests that the Leafs need to move someone due to a surplus of forwards and ongoing salary cap constraints. He notes that there is interest in Robertson, but a trade depends on the fit and what Toronto seeks in return.
One potential landing spot for Robertson is the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he would reunite with former Maple Leafs General Manager, now President, Kyle Dubas. Dubas has a known interest in players with untapped potential, and Robertson, who hasn't consistently been given a fair opportunity in Toronto, could benefit from a change of scenery.
The Columbus Blue Jackets are another team reportedly interested in Robertson. There has been speculation about a potential one-for-one trade involving Yegor Chinakhov, who has requested a trade. However, Friedman suggests that the Maple Leafs might need to offer more than just Robertson for Chinakhov, as a straight swap may not be sufficient for Columbus. Chinakhov, a skilled 23-year-old winger with scoring ability, posted seven goals in 30 games last season and has shown top-six potential.
Robertson, drafted by Toronto in the second round (53rd overall) in 2019, has accumulated 32 goals and 24 assists in 156 career games over five seasons with the Maple Leafs. In the 2024-25 season, he achieved a career-high of 15 goals in 69 games. Despite these flashes of offensive ability, Robertson has struggled to find a consistent role in the lineup and has, at times, been relegated to third or fourth-line duties. This inconsistent playing time led to Robertson requesting a trade last summer.
While Robertson's new contract avoids an arbitration hearing, it may also be a strategic move by the Maple Leafs to make him more appealing to potential trade partners. The $1.825 million cap hit is palatable for many teams, particularly those with ample cap space and a need for a young, skilled forward. Some analysts suggest the Maple Leafs could package Robertson with another player or prospect to acquire a top-six forward or create additional cap flexibility.
Other teams that could be potential destinations for Robertson include the Nashville Predators, who struggled to score goals last season. Adding Robertson would provide them with a winger capable of playing in their top nine. The Predators have significant cap space and a wealth of draft picks, making them a viable trade partner for the Leafs.
With the Maple Leafs looking to make further roster adjustments before the start of the 2025-26 season, it appears likely that Robertson will be on the move. The one-year contract provides him with an opportunity to showcase his skills and increase his value, while also giving the Maple Leafs the flexibility to trade him if the right offer arises.
