The Toronto Maple Leafs re-signed forward Nick Robertson to a one-year, $875,000 contract on Tuesday, resolving a previous deadlock between the two parties.
Robertson had requested a trade in June due to a lack of consistent playing time last season amidst a crowded forward lineup. Although Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving explored trade options, he reportedly preferred to keep the winger. Nonetheless, Robertson achieved career highs last season, tallying 27 points (14 goals, 13 assists) in 56 games.
Turning 23 on Wednesday, Robertson was selected by Toronto in the second round of the 2019 NHL Draft (53rd overall). Over parts of four seasons, he has recorded 34 points (17 goals, 17 assists) in 87 games.
In other news, hockey fans will soon enjoy international competition again, as the NHL’s 4 Nations Face-off will feature top players from Canada, Finland, Sweden, and the U.S. competing in Montreal and Boston from February 12-20. Each nation has named six players to its roster, with additional names to be announced closer to the tournament. This marks the first time in nearly a decade that fans will see the best players in the world face off on an international stage.
Canada’s roster will include stars like Sidney Crosby, Nathan MacKinnon, and Connor McDavid, while the U.S. boasts players such as Auston Matthews, Jack Eichel, and the Tkachuk brothers. Sweden has a deep blue line, and Finland is known for its strong two-way center depth.
Before the NHL season begins, we can anticipate what the rosters might look like. The U.S. has developed a strong pool of talent, highlighted by their reigning Rocket Richard, Norris, and Vezina Trophy winners. They are well-positioned across all positions, while other nations have noted weaknesses.
Key decisions for the U.S. include which centers to play on the wing, with Matthews, Eichel, and Dylan Larkin likely to anchor the center position. The selection of forwards may come down to form, with several candidates like Clayton Keller and Cole Caufield in contention.
The defensemen selection appears more straightforward, with top players expected to lead the power play. Charlie McAvoy and Jaccob Slavin bring defensive prowess, while Brock Faber’s strong rookie performance may secure him a spot. The goaltending situation is the most competitive, as one of Jake Oettinger, Thatcher Demko, or Jeremy Swayman will be left off the roster, underscoring the depth the U.S. has in net.
Canada’s forward lineup is stacked, featuring Crosby, McDavid, and Connor Bedard. Nick Suzuki edged out Mark Stone for a spot, with Steven Stamkos likely as an extra. Canada’s depth presents a challenge in selecting defensemen, with Cale Makar and Devon Toews likely forming the top pair, while others like Noah Dobson and Shea Theodore are strong contenders.
In goal, Canada faces challenges, as their talent in skaters exceeds that of their goaltenders. Jordan Binnington, Stuart Skinner, and Adin Hill are capable but have inconsistent performances. If Tristan Jarry or Joel Hofer excel early in the season, they may need to be considered.
Sweden’s roster choices will weigh veteran experience against youth, potentially integrating players like Elias Pettersson and Gabriel Landeskog. Their defense is strong, featuring Victor Hedman, Erik Karlsson, and Rasmus Dahlin.
If Jacob Markstrom performs well, he could back up Linus Ullmark, both of whom have been Vezina contenders. Jesper Wallstedt is seen as a future star, but if Samuel Ersson excels, he could be considered as well, though both are unlikely to see action if Ullmark and Markstrom are healthy.
Leave a Reply