If you’re wondering what Nick Robertson’s trade value could possibly be right now, you won’t have to look very hard to find out.
In case you missed it, the Pittsburgh Penguins acquired winger Philip Tomasino on Monday afternoon from the Nashville Predators in exchange for a 2027 fourth round pick.
Like Robertson, Tomasino was in dire need of a change scenery, and finally, he was given one.
Personally, even though there’s certainly comparisons to draw between the two wingers, I think the Leafs would be lucky to fetch a fourth rounder right now for Robertson —but that’s just my opinion. After a strong preseason where he scored five times, the 23-year-old has tallied just one measly goal in 18 outings so far in the regular season. Additionally, even with all the injuries, he’s been unable to elevate and find a way to contribute. To say Nick Robertson’s snake bitten currently would be an understatement.
Having said all that, I think his play without the puck has improved considerably under Berube, but let’s be honest, that’s just window dressing. He’s employed to fill up the net, and when he’s not doing that, people are going to talk about it.
And, at this point, it’s not like he hasn’t received ample opportunity to find consistency at the NHL level. In 105 regular season games, Robertson has potted 18 goals, 14 of which came last season. He’s having the worst start imaginable, but luckily for him, the team’s ravaged by injury, so it’s unlikely he’ll be moved anytime soon. Translation: He still has time to get out of this before it’s too late.
As mentioned, Tomasino was dealt to Pittsburgh. Not only is he the same age as Robertson but he was also a gifted goal scorer in the Ontario Hockey League. For what it’s worth, in 159 career regular season outings, he’s notched 23 goals. Clearly, it’s evident why Robertson’s name has been mentioned in passing here. They’re the same player!
Furthermore, regardless of what’s being said in the media, there’s no question that patience must be running thin for Craig Berube and Brad Treliving. Plain and simple, Robertson’s paid to score goals, and right now, he’s not doing that. In the not too distance future, management will be tasked with making a call. Everything’s trending towards a trade, but as mentioned, there’s still a glimmer hope amongst all the wounded for Robertson to finally find his scoring touch consistently at the NHL level.
I know this saga has gone on for far too long but at least we can stop talking about his trade value, right?
