The Toronto Maple Leafs have experienced an inconsistent season through the opening month. Despite opening the campaign with a convincing victory over Montreal, the franchise has struggled to maintain momentum and has dropped multiple games.
Currently sitting 6-5-1, Toronto has fallen into the bottom half of the Atlantic Division standings. However, while the team searches for consistency, one young forward has impressed fans with his recent play, sparking calls for increased ice time.
Why Are Maple Leafs Fans Calling For More Ice Time For Nicholas Robertson?
The Maple Leafs entered the season with elevated expectations. With Mitch Marner leaving for Vegas over the summer, the offensive burden shifted heavily to Auston Matthews. But, with just nine points through 12 games, the Toronto captain has been underwhelming.
Additionally, starting goaltender Joseph Woll’s absence has created instability in the net. While the team has struggled overall, Nicholas Robertson has emerged as one of Toronto’s most productive forwards over the past four games.
Despite averaging just 12:26 in ice time per game, he has maintained strong shooting metrics. Over his last four contests, he’s recorded three goals and two assists. Fans have noticed his production and are demanding that he receive more opportunities.
“So Nick Robertson finally got 4 games in the top 6, and he has 3 goals and 2 assists? Huh, whoda thunk it? #LeafsForever,” one supporter wrote. They argued that with increased ice time earlier in the season, Robertson’s production would be even higher.
Other fans believe the 24-year-old has proven he belongs in the top six permanently. “Now that we are back to our regularly scheduled programming, Nick Robertson probably deserves to stay in the lineup,” one posted.
Another highlighted his recent statistics: “Nick Robertson in his last 5 games: 3 goals, 2 assists, 5 points, 7 SOG, 4 hits. Making the most of his chances in the top 6 with Nylander out.”
With William Nylander sidelined since suffering an injury against Buffalo on October 24, Robertson has maximized his opportunity in the top-six forward group. He paced Toronto’s offense in their most recent game against Philadelphia, drawing praise from the NHL’s official social media account: “NICK ROBERTSON WITH A RIP.”
Robertson set up Matthews for a quick equalizer after Philadelphia grabbed an early first-period lead. In the second frame, Robertson himself got a chance to score off a Matthew Knies-John Tavares setup, giving Toronto a 3-1 advantage.
While the Maple Leafs won that contest 5-2, questions remain about Robertson’s long-term role. Fans believe his recent performances have earned him regular top-six minutes. Whether head coach Craig Berube agrees will become clear in upcoming games when the lineup is finalized.