This Disgruntled Toronto Maple Leafs Forward Could Be a Boost to the NY Islanders

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Nick Robertson, brother of Dallas Stars’ Jason Robertson, submitted a very public trade request earlier this summer.

In particular, Robertson has been unhappy with his role on the Toronto Maple Leafs. Under former Toronto coach Sheldon Keefe, the former second-round pick never really gained traction. In both 2021-22 and 2022-23, injuries kept Robertson from earning a regular lineup spot.

Last season, when Robertson was finally healthy, he found himself a healthy scratch for a fair number of games. As injuries hit the Leafs’ top nine, Robertson got an opportunity, producing 14 goals and 27 points in 56 games.

But at the end of last season, Robertson declined to re-sign in Toronto despite being extended a qualifying offer. As such, Robertson remains an RFA and doesn’t look to be signing with the Maple Leafs anytime soon.

Robertson has gotten attention from various clubs around the league, but what about the New York Islanders? Wouldn’t Robertson be a good addition to the team?

On the whole, yes. Robertson has the potential to be a top-six forward given his speed, solid hockey senses, and strong shot. Robertson could easily slide into the second line with Brock Nelson and Kyle Palmieri.

Robertson could even get a look on the top line with Mathew Barzal and Bo Horvat. Adding a dynamic young forward like Robertson could give elite playmaker Barzal another scorer to target. Plus, Robertson’s speed could make a Robertson-Horvat-Barzal line incredibly frustrating to play against.

Now, I know what some fans are thinking: The Isles’ top nine forward group is a bit crowded. So, wouldn’t Robertson find a similar problem to the one he has in Toronto?

When considering that Isles currently have Anthony Duclair, Anders Lee, and Maxim Tsyplakov on the left side, Robertson could face some stiff competition. But then again, the New York Islanders aren’t totally sure what they have in Tsyplakov.

So, adding Robertson gives Patrick Roy further flexibility when crafting his top nine forward group. Most importantly, having several capable forwards allows the Isles to adjust lines according to their opponents or game situations, making the team much harder to play against.

The Cost of Acquiring Nick Robertson

Acquiring Nick Robertson shouldn’t be prohibitive. While the Toronto Maple Leafs may have a high asking price, the club may ultimately lower its final price given the situation. Robertson has been steadfast about not re-signing in Toronto, making the situation awkward for the team and player.

If the recent Patrik Laine trade is any indication, the Leafs and Isles could swap prospects. Perhaps Simon Holmstrom for Robertson? Alternatively, a mid-round pick could move the needle.

Then, there’s the possibility of simply extending Robertson an offer sheet. Depending on the dollar value, an offer sheet could cost the Isles a second or third-round pick. The Dylan Holloway offer sheet could be a good example of what the New York Islanders could do to get Nick Robertson.

Ultimately, the New York Islanders are faced with a unique opportunity to add a dynamic, young player with top-six potential. A savvy executive like Lou Lamoriello could take advantage of a competitor’s challenging situation to further strengthen his team’s forward corps.

With about four weeks left for the opening of training camp, there’s still plenty of time for a major move to happen.