Nicholas Robertson has emerged as one of many key gamers within the Toronto Maple Leafs preseason, and his standout performances have caught the eye of head coach Craig Berube. Through the preseason, Robertson has been given probabilities on each the fitting and left wing spots. He’s been logging vital ice time, and he’s coming by way of. He’s impressed along with his offensive prowess, scoring three targets in two video games, together with two game-winners.

But, questions stay—has Robertson accomplished sufficient to safe a spot on the Maple Leafs’ opening-night roster?

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Robertson’s play has been electrifying. He’s proven offensive abilities, robust forechecking, and the flexibility to create scoring probabilities. He has been noticeable on each the facility play and penalty kill. The teaching employees has discovered that he can contribute throughout quite a few areas of the sport. Nonetheless, reserving a roster spot stays dangerous. The particular query is whether or not the potential signing of Max Pacioretty limits Robertson’s probabilities on the left wing.

Robertson Has Stood Out Positively

Within the Maple Leafs’ current 2-1 preseason win over the Montreal Canadiens, Robertson was as soon as once more the driving power on offense. He scored twice, along with his first purpose approaching a seven-minute energy play after a chaotic sequence that noticed Montreal’s Patrik Laine exit the sport as a result of a collision with Cedric Pare. Younger Maple Leafs prospect Easton Cowan arrange Robertson with an excellent cross-ice go, and Robertson delivered to open the scoring.

Robertson’s second purpose got here within the third interval when he capitalized on a transition play by linemates Matthew Knies and Pontus Holmberg. Given area to function, Robertson fired a low shot that beat Canadiens goalie Cayden Primeau five-hole. Knies, who has performed alongside Robertson in preseason motion, praised his scoring capacity in these conditions.

As Knies famous postgame, “I feel everybody is aware of it’s coming, however he nonetheless finds a strategy to beat them.” Knies, who sounds precisely like he understands Robertson’s scenario, shared: “It’s distinctive (and) actually enjoyable to observe. It was enjoyable enjoying with him right this moment, and I hope I can see these targets extra.” It appears there’s one vote for holding Robertson.

Coach Berube Additionally Took Discover of Robertson

Head coach Craig Berube shortly acknowledged Robertson’s contributions however famous that it wasn’t simply in regards to the targets. Berube highlighted Robertson’s total work ethic and decision-making. “It’s not even the targets; it’s his effort and the best way he performed.” Berube added, “I believed his work ethic was wonderful … (Robertson confirmed) competitiveness, made good selections with the puck—and he acquired a few targets for us.”

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Berube’s feedback replicate a broader appreciation for Robertson’s improvement past his scoring contact. The 23-year-old has improved his two-way recreation, contributing defensively whereas sustaining his offensive instincts. This mixture of hustle, coronary heart, and talent makes him a persuasive choice for the Maple Leafs teaching employees.

But, Is Robertson Nonetheless Battling for a Spot?

Regardless of his robust exhibiting within the preseason, Robertson’s future with the Maple Leafs stays unsure. His efficiency suggests he’s able to contribute on the NHL degree, however Toronto’s depth on the wing place may create a logjam. If the Maple Leafs signal Pacioretty, Robertson’s alternatives might be much more restricted. Now that Robertson is not waiver-exempt, it pushes the group to fish or reduce bait. They’ll not ship him right down to the American Hockey League’s (AHL) Toronto Marlies with out risking shedding him to a different staff. And, make no mistake, one other staff would gobble him up shortly.

Robertson’s rollercoaster preseason has included each highs and lows. In Thursday’s preseason recreation, he unintentionally knocked teammate William Nylander out of the competition, which raised questions on his decision-making. Nonetheless, Robertson bounced again with a robust efficiency in his final two video games, displaying his capacity to deal with adversity and study from his errors.

What’s Subsequent for Robertson?

So, the place does that depart Robertson? At 23, he’s at a pivotal level in his profession. Final season, he put up 14 targets and 27 factors by way of 56 video games within the NHL—numbers that counsel he can produce on the highest degree. This season, the stakes are larger. Robertson has confirmed he belongs within the NHL, whether or not in Toronto or elsewhere. He’s made a case for a spot on the staff’s roster along with his preseason play. Nonetheless, a lot will depend upon how the staff navigates its roster depth and cap constraints.

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It’s exhausting to think about what extra he might do if Robertson hasn’t but secured his roster spot. Because the preseason continues, the query is, “What’s subsequent?” Has the younger ahead accomplished sufficient to persuade the teaching employees that he’s prepared for a everlasting spot within the lineup? Or, as some speculate, is he destined to play a extra vital function on one other staff the place his scoring abilities could be extra appreciated?

One factor is now sure: Robertson has impressed Berube and the teaching employees. Whether or not that’s sufficient to solidify his spot with the Maple Leafs stays to be seen, however Robertson is undoubtedly placing his greatest foot ahead to earn his place.