September 6, 2024 | 8:58aM ET
TheFourthPeriod.com

ROBERTSON STILL PREFERS TO BE TRADED

Nick Robertson, forward

Toronto Maple Leafs restricted free agent forward Nick Robertson requested a trade early in the off-season and that desire has not changed with training camps set to begin in 12 days.

Robertson, who turns 23 on Sept. 11, is coming off of his three-year, entry-level contract and prefers a change of scenery, a message delivered to the Maple Leafs after last season.

On Thursday during an appearance on TSN 1050’s OverDrive, TSN’s Pierre LeBrun reiterated Robertson’s position has not change.

“He still would prefer a change of address,” said LeBrun on OverDrive. “But that has been slow going on that. Got a pretty powerful agent in Pat Brisson, but checking with a couple different people involved today, he’s training back home and waiting for a resolution.

“But the process certainly hasn’t moved along as fast as I think his camp would like so we’ll see where that goes.”

The Maple Leafs currently have just over $1.275 million in salary cap space for this season and have been scouring the market for a top-six forward to add to their roster, be it at the left wing or centre position.

Toronto is among the teams that have shown interest in unrestricted free agent left wing Max Pacioretty, but a decision has not yet been made from the veteran’s side.

Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving could package Robertson in a deal for immediate help or deal him away for future assets, but as LeBrun reported, the Leafs clearly are not in a rush to pull the trigger on a trade.

If Robertson remains with the Maple Leafs by the start of camp and does not have a new contract under his belt, he is not expected to report to the club.

In 56 games with the Maple Leafs last season, Robertson registered 14 goals and 13 assists for 27 points.