Nicholas Robertson Trade Rumors: Toronto Maple Leafs Forward's Value Declining

Image credits: Jess Starr /The Hockey Writers

The Toronto Maple Leafs are expected to make some changes at the 2025 Trade Deadline in hopes of making a deep playoff run this season. One player who will be closely watched is Nicholas Robertson, who has had his name mentioned in trade rumors for several seasons but hasn’t been dealt. According to a recent report, it seems as though Robertson’s trade value is declining. The 23-year-old forward was drafted by the Maple Leafs in the second round of the 2019 NHL Entry Draft and has shown promise, but his production has slowed down this season.

Robertson has scored eight goals and added four assists for 12 points through 47 games this season, which is a significant drop from his 27 points in 56 games last season. As a pending restricted free agent with an $875,000 cap hit, teams could look to acquire him as a project piece for very cheap. The Edmonton Oilers, who have the draft capital and cap space to take a chance on Robertson, could utilize him as a depth forward in the postseason. The Vegas Golden Knights also need to bolster their forward depth and could take a chance on Robertson, who has been a point-a-game player in the minors and has incredible potential.

Other teams that could be interested in Robertson include the San Jose Sharks, Anaheim Ducks, Chicago Blackhawks, and Buffalo Sabres. However, these teams may be more enticed to bring in draft capital at the trade deadline rather than get rid of it. The Maple Leafs may not have their phones blowing up for Robertson, but there could still be some teams that take a look at bringing him in if they are looking to bolster their forward depth for a playoff run. With a strong forward core and young players like Fraser Minten and Easton Cowan ready to become full-time NHL players next season, Robertson seems to be on his way out sooner rather than later.

The 2025 Trade Deadline is just weeks away, and time will tell if Robertson remains in Toronto for the remainder of the 2024-25 season or if he gets a fresh start elsewhere. The Oilers, in particular, could be a good fit for Robertson, as they are looking for depth scorers, particularly wingers who can finish on the plays Leon Draisaitl makes. Robertson previously requested a trade last summer, and it’s unclear what his value is heading into the deadline. If the asking price is reasonable, the Oilers should see if the Leafs are looking to dump Robertson to do other things. The Oilers have taken some chances on players that other teams didn’t want, and in some cases, it has worked out well, with Robertson potentially being a key addition to their roster.

Here are some potential trade destinations for Nicholas Robertson:

• Edmonton Oilers
• Vegas Golden Knights
• San Jose Sharks
• Anaheim Ducks
• Chicago Blackhawks
• Buffalo Sabres

The Maple Leafs may not get a high return for Robertson, but they could still get some value for him. As a young player with potential, Robertson could be a good addition to a team looking to rebuild or add depth to their roster. Only time will tell what the future holds for Nicholas Robertson, but one thing is certain - his time as a Maple Leaf is likely coming to an end.