Proposed trade between the Blackhawks and Maple Leafs would've been the better bet for Chicago
Photo credit: NHL.com
There was a proposed trade that would have seen the Chicago Blackhawks acquire Nick Robertson from their former Original 6 foe, the Toronto Maple Leafs, to give him a fresh start.
The Toronto Maple Leafs decided to re-sign RFA forward Nick Robertson to a 1-year contract, avoiding salary arbitration.
But there is still no guarantee that Robertson's long-term future remains with the Maple Leafs. Could he end up with a former Original 6 foe?
The Chicago Blackhawks were named a possibility for Robertson to end up per analyst Rob Ellis of NHL Trade Rumors.
Per Ellis, the Blackhawks would present a better opportunity for Robertson and suggested that he could even play with former 1st overall pick Connor Bedard, the face of the franchise taken in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft.
This is where the synergy becomes undeniable. The Blackhawks can offer Robertson what the Maple Leafs can't: a guaranteed spot in the top six and prime power-play time. Imagine Robertson on the wing, fed one-timers from Bedard-it's a tantalizing fit. In return, the Toronto Maple Leafs would acquire Reichel, a versatile forward and natural playmaker who could slot into the middle six and add a different dimension to their attack. He's not the pure sniper Robertson is, but his creativity could help elevate his linemates.
Not only would Robertson be able to have a better opportunity with the Blackhawks, but he could also give Bedard another weapon to have at his disposal as he and Chicago look to take the next step.
Nick Robertson can become an RFA next summer
Robertson was taken with the 53rd overall pick by the Maple Leafs in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft, and he's spent his entire professional career in the organization.
His 1st semi-full year was 2023-24, in which he played 56 games and had 27 points (14G, 13A). He also had 22 points (15G, 7A) in 69 games last year but played in only 3 postseason games.
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