Toronto Maple Leafs forward Nick Robertson has requested a trade, and a recent trade pitch suggests sending him to Utah.
Robertson, a restricted free agent (RFA), has informed the Maple Leafs that he doesn’t plan to re-sign due to frustration with his role. With Robertson seeking a trade, rumors have been circulating. Using PuckPedia’s new tool, PuckGM, one user proposed a deal sending Robertson to Utah.
Maple Leafs Receive:
– Jack McBain
Utah Receives:
– Nick Robertson
In this proposed one-for-one trade, Toronto would exchange Robertson for Jack McBain. McBain, who has one year left on his contract at $1.59 million per season, would likely become Toronto’s third-line center. Drafted 63rd overall in 2018, McBain recorded 8 goals and 18 assists for 26 points in 67 games last season.
Robertson, on the other hand, would provide Utah with additional scoring depth, fitting into their top six. Last season, Robertson tallied 14 goals and 13 assists for 27 points in 56 games.
Maple Leafs GM Envisions Big Role for Robertson
Despite Robertson’s trade request, Toronto isn’t obligated to honor it. Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving emphasized Robertson’s importance to the team on July 1.
“Obviously, I know there was some frustration with Nick, but we see Nick as an excellent player,” Treliving said. “There’s great opportunity for Nick here. We need him to be a good player for us.”
Robertson was often a healthy scratch, contributing to his trade request. As an RFA, other teams can offer him a contract, but Toronto has the right to match it.
Utah’s Active Offseason
Utah, having relocated from Arizona, was very active this offseason under new ownership. The Hockey Club traded for Mikhail Sergachev and John Marino, signed key free agents like Kevin Stenlund and Ian Cole, and re-signed Sean Durzi. Utah GM Bill Armstrong expressed optimism about the upcoming season.
“There will be nights we look like world beaters with the young guys running wild, and nights we take it on the chin,” Armstrong said. “But if we can be more consistent, especially with the penalty kill, it’s going to be a fun year.”
Utah head coach Andre Tourigny also praised Armstrong’s offseason moves.
“Bill and his group did a fantastic job addressing our needs while retaining the core team we liked,” Tourigny said.
Utah will start its 2024-25 season at home on Oct. 8 against the Chicago Blackhawks.
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