Toronto Maple Leafs
Nick Robertson’s Last Chance to Salvage His Season
Nick Robertson had a stellar game against the Buffalo Sabres. Is there still time for him to save his season with the Maple Leafs?
Gord Stellick recently joined Justin Bourne and Nick Kypreos on Real Kyper and Bourne to discuss Nick Robertson’s performance in the Toronto Maple Leafs’ victory over the Buffalo Sabres. While Robertson showed flashes of his potential, the trio debated whether the young forward could turn things around and become a reliable contributor for the Maple Leafs this season. Is this his last chance to save his Maple Leafs season?
Here’s what they had to say about Robertson’s season so far and what it will take for him to prove he belongs in the Maple Leafs’ lineup.
Missed Opportunities: Did Robertson Squander His Chance?
Robertson entered this season with an opportunity to establish himself as a regular NHL contributor. However, Stellick expressed disappointment with Robertson’s inability to seize that chance fully.
Robertson had stretches earlier in the season where he played regularly and saw decent minutes, but Stellick noted, “He didn’t embrace the chance.” While he didn’t outright squander the opportunity, Robertson hasn’t yet shown the consistency the team needs from him.
The line Robertson played on against Buffalo showed what the Maple Leafs likely envisioned at the start of the season: a third-line role where he could make an impact every few games. However, performances like these have been too rare, leaving questions about whether Robertson can rise to the occasion.
Timely Goals: A Missing Ingredient in the Playoffs
One key point raised was the Maple Leafs’ need for players who can deliver clutch, timely goals, especially in the playoffs. Stellick reflected on past Maple Leafs players, asking:.“Who can get that big goal in the playoffs?” He highlighted the team’s recent postseason scoring struggles. With his quick release and goal-scoring prowess in the AHL, Robertson could potentially fill this role. However, his ability to replicate that success at the NHL level remains unproven.
The Maple Leafs have seen players step up unexpectedly in the past—Stellick referenced Michael Bunting replacing Nick Ritchie on the top six as an example of someone seizing an opportunity. Robertson has yet to demonstrate he can be that kind of player.
Maple Leafs Have Too Many Seats, Not Enough Room
Nick Kypreos highlighted the Maple Leafs’ current roster dilemma: they have more players vying for spots than they have room for. Brad Treliving’s earlier analogy about “too many passengers and not enough seats on the plane” still holds true for players like Robertson. He must compete for ice time and a meaningful role in a lineup stacked with established veterans and promising young talent.
The evaluation process remains ongoing. Despite Robertson’s flashes of brilliance, he has yet to secure a permanent spot. As Stellick suggested, the Maple Leafs are still searching for the right pieces to elevate the team during high-pressure moments.
The Bottom Line: Is There Still Time for Robertson?
While the season might not be over for Robertson, the window for him to prove himself is narrowing. As Stellick, Kypreos, and Bourne noted, Robertson’s game against Buffalo shows what he could bring to the team if he can find consistency. However, given the limited roster spots and playoff-focused evaluation process, time is essential.
If Robertson can become the player who scores that “big goal” the Maple Leafs have been missing in recent playoff runs, he could still salvage his season and role with the team. But if he fails to take the next step, the Maple Leafs might look elsewhere for someone to fill that void.
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