Safe to say, Nick Robertson has made a huge statement during the Toronto Maple Leafs’ preseason games, showing he’s ready for the regular season. The 22-year-old winger has scored 5 goals in his last 4 preseason games, with 3 being game-winners. This impressive performance seems to have solidified his spot on the Leafs’ roster for the first time directly out of training camp.
It hasn’t been an easy ride for Robertson. He requested a trade earlier this year and spent the summer without a contract. His name was even mentioned in trade rumors. But now it looks like he’s proven his worth to the team.
Toronto’s head coach Craig Berube had high praise for Robertson after his masterclass against Detroit. “He’s been really good defensively, killing penalties, and producing offensively with goals,” Berube said. “His speed is great, and he’s got a fantastic shot. He’s using his skills well, moving his feet, and, again, he’s been responsible defensively, which is great to see.”
The player has certainly made his way to redemption and general consensus is that he is here to stay in Toronto. While speaking on FromTheBend PuckDrop, Julian Artemi said, “My sources tell me Robertson has likely won over his coach, and the overall feeling in the locker room about him is very positive. After the Red Wings’ game, there’s almost no doubt he will remain with the Leafs this season.”
Nick Robertson opens up on ‘tough camp’
After his performance against Ottawa, Robertson reflected on his game, saying his mentality and hard work over the summer prepared him for camp. “I trained hard this summer, and it’s been a tough camp, but I’m happy with how things have been going,” he said.
Nick Robertson also highlighted his focus on improving his defensive game, which led to key plays like lifting an opponent’s stick in Montreal to create a scoring chance. “Those are the kind of goals I’m proud of because they come from strong defensive work,” Robertson added.
THERE HE GOES AGAIN!!!! pic.twitter.com/E6ro5PfFg8
— Toronto Maple Leafs (@MapleLeafs) October 3, 2024
Anthony Stolarz’s goaltending stole the show
Goaltender Anthony Stolarz also had a standout game, shutting out Ottawa and helping the Leafs win. Stolarz talked about how he was able to control rebounds and read the opposing players’ shots. He even had a fun moment with former teammate Vladimir Tarasenko, making two glove saves on him and exchanging smiles during the game.
“It’s obviously exciting…you want to be on the big stage,” Stolarz said about his future with the Leafs. With both him and the team’s other goalies pushing each other, Stolarz is eager for the regular season to begin.
Berube commended his team’s overall effort, noting their defensive work and how they took away time and space from a veteran-heavy Red Wings team. He was also impressed with Stolarz’s ability to fight through traffic and limit rebounds.
With only one preseason game remaining, Berube insisted there’s still work to be done, but the Leafs are on the right track as they gear up for the regular season.