Pittsburgh Penguins Eye Nick Robertson as Potential Trade Target
As the start of training camp approaches, the Pittsburgh Penguins are once again featured in trade rumors, with Nick Robertson of the Toronto Maple Leafs emerging as a possible target. 
Elliotte Friedman shared the update: “I’ve had a few people ask me about the possibility of Nick Robertson and Pittsburgh. Kyle Dubas knows him, they’ve settled the arbitration, and the Leafs are looking to clear some roster spots” – 32 Thoughts Podcast (8/3).
Could Robertson Move to Pittsburgh?
The 23-year-old forward recently signed a one-year contract with the Leafs worth $1.9 million. With the Leafs facing salary cap constraints and aiming to make additional moves, Robertson, along with David Kampf and Calle Jarnkrok, has become a player Toronto is open to trading to free up space for new acquisitions.
Nick Robertson’s Career Overview
A native of California, Robertson was drafted 53rd overall by the Leafs in the 2019 draft, following in the footsteps of his older brother, superstar Jason Robertson. Nick has shown impressive goal-scoring potential, tallying 97 goals and 134 points over 162 games with the Peterborough Petes of the OHL. He also posted 27 goals and 53 points in 60 AHL games.
However, his time in the NHL has been more inconsistent. At 5’9″, Robertson is a smaller winger who has struggled defensively. Offensively, he’s been streaky but capable of producing when given the opportunity. In the 2023-24 season, Robertson recorded 14 goals and 27 points in 56 games. The following year, he tallied 15 goals and 22 points in 69 games. Despite his offensive skills, Robertson’s shaky defensive play and inconsistency have led to periods of being a healthy scratch, including limited playoff appearances in 2024 (only three games, with a goal and assist).
Could the Penguins Be a Landing Spot for Robertson?
For Pittsburgh, the appeal of Robertson lies in his untapped potential. Though he’s struggled to stay in the Leafs’ lineup, Robertson is still just 23 and could develop into a reliable middle-six forward with the right opportunity. The Penguins could capitalize on his low value by acquiring him at a relatively low cost, given his frequent appearance in trade rumors and inconsistent NHL tenure. A trade involving Robertson might even be part of a larger deal, as the Penguins have been shopping Rickard Rakell, Bryan Rust, and Erik Karlsson, all of whom would interest the Leafs. A package including Robertson, a high draft pick, and a prospect could be enticing to Kyle Dubas, the Leafs’ GM.
Finding a Spot for Robertson in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh has a strong winger group with veterans like Rust, Rakell, Danton Heinen, and Anthony Mantha, which could make it difficult for Robertson to crack the top-six. However, with Rust and Rakell frequently mentioned in trade rumors, there could be openings for Robertson to compete for a spot alongside Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. Additionally, younger players like Rutger McGroarty, Ville Koivunen, and Philip Tomasino are also vying for NHL roster spots, which might create more opportunities for Robertson.
A Low-Risk, High-Reward Move for Pittsburgh
The potential trade for Robertson hinges on his lower current value compared to his potential upside. He’s a player who could break out with the right team and situation, and a change of scenery may be just what he needs to fulfill his promise as a middle-six contributor. With over a year of trade speculation and dissatisfaction in Toronto, Robertson will likely be playing with a chip on his shoulder, no matter which team he suits up for this season.
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