Toronto Maple Leafs forward Nick Robertson is reportedly attracting significant interest from several Western Conference teams as the NHL season rapidly approaches. According to Cam Robinson of Elite Prospects, the San Jose Sharks have emerged as a potential frontrunner in acquiring the 24-year-old winger.

Robertson, currently on a one-year, $1.825 million contract, has struggled to find a consistent role within the Maple Leafs' lineup. With the emergence of prospects like Easton Cowan and the recent changes in the Maple Leafs' roster, Robertson's future in Toronto appears uncertain. He was also among the extras for the Leafs, suggesting he might not be in Toronto's opening lineup.

The San Jose Sharks, undergoing a rebuild, could offer Robertson a valuable opportunity to excel with increased playing time within their young core. Sharks forward Ryan Reaves, who previously played with Robertson in Toronto, has praised Robertson's skill set, particularly his shot and goal-scoring ability.

Interest in Robertson extends beyond San Jose, with other Western Conference teams, including the Chicago Blackhawks, Utah Mammoth, Nashville Predators, and Edmonton Oilers, also potentially in the mix.

Robertson's name has been circulating in trade rumors for over a year. In the previous season, he played 69 games, achieving a career-high of 15 goals. In total, Robertson has 56 points in 156 career NHL games.

A trade involving Robertson could benefit both the Maple Leafs and the acquiring team. For Toronto, it would help alleviate their current logjam at the forward position and potentially bring in valuable assets. For a team like the Sharks, or another suitor, Robertson represents a low-risk gamble on a skilled forward who may simply need a change of scenery to unlock his full potential.

The Maple Leafs and Sharks have a recent history of trades, including deals involving Timothy Liljegren and Ryan Reaves. This existing relationship could facilitate a potential agreement regarding Robertson.