NHL Trade Rumors: Nick Robertson Linked To 2 More Teams

Nick Robertson's journey to the NHL has been riddled with numerous obstacles, including significant injuries and difficulty securing a consistent top-six role with the Toronto Maple Leafs. 

Now, at 22, the talented winger has reportedly requested a trade, seeking a fresh start. 

Amid these developments, two teams have emerged as potential destinations: the San Jose Sharks and the Columbus Blue Jackets, as noted by Adam Proteau of The Hockey News.

Disappointing to hear that Nick Robertson has requested a trade from the Leafs.
His game definitely has potential: hard shot, some speed and skill. Obviously still a ways to go to round out his game, but I am hopeful pic.twitter.com/nZA2OMWeQQ

— Rink Rat Report (@RinkRatReport) July 1, 2024

The San Jose Sharks could provide Robertson with a much-needed change of scenery and the opportunity to play closer to his California roots. 

The Sharks, who are in dire need of reinforcements, could offer Robertson significant playing time and a prominent role. 

This past season, the 22-year-old recorded 14 goals and 13 assists for 27 total points across 56 games played.

A potential trade could involve the Sharks sending a second-round pick and a mid-tier prospect to the Leafs, giving Toronto the chance to clear cap space and gain valuable assets while placing Robertson alongside emerging talents like Will Smith and Macklin Celebrini.

Nick Robertson is nowhere near a perfect player, but I think people are overplaying how disappointing he's been. His minutes have come in careful usage, but he's scored at a really impressive rate over the last couple years. There's a real player here, at least IMO. pic.twitter.com/4qpZNXW2Wn

— Arvi (@arvi) July 1, 2024

Similarly, the Columbus Blue Jackets are navigating a significant rebuild and could offer Robertson a top-six role, especially if they decide to move veteran forward Boone Jenner, as noted by Proteau. 

This scenario would provide Robertson with a less pressured environment to develop his skills. In return, the Leafs could seek a high draft pick and a promising prospect, benefiting both teams by giving Robertson the fresh start he seeks while helping Toronto bolster their future prospects.

Over his four-year NHL career, Robertson has just 87 games under his belt, recording 17 goals and 17 assists for 34 total points over those games.

Robertson is a former second-round pick (53rd overall) pick by the Maple Leafs in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft.

Photo Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports