Former GM Brian Burke calls out Maple Leafs for how they’ve dealt with Nick Robertson

Things aren’t getting any better for Nick Robertson in Toronto under new head coach Craig Berube. The young forward was never truly able to establish himself as a regular fixture in the Maple Leafs lineup and trade rumours have been ongoing for seasons now. So much so that former general manager, and now Executive Director of the PWHLPA Brian Burke has had enough.

On the Leafs Morning Take podcast, Burke spoke with host Nick Alberga and former Maple Leafs defenseman Jay Rosehill and tackled the issue involing Robertson and how he’s been treated in Toronto. Simply put, Burke believes Robertson is a talented player who needs to get his chance with another team in the NHL.

“I like the player. Everyone does but he’s not what they need. The problem is, he is a square peg in a round hole for me. He’s a good player, he’s a good kid from everything I see and he’s a guy that should be playing in the league, but it doesn’t have to be for the Toronto Maple Leafs.”

He said more, almost calling for the Maple Leafs to make the right move for the player:

“I think Brad Treliving has done a pretty good job. He’s a smart guy, but I think it’s time to maybe move on from Nick or move a player like Nick and give him more ice time, but the shuffling in and out and different lineups every night, that gets old. Players don’t like it.”

After a productive preseason, Robertson hasn’t been able to keep it up in the regular calendar, recording just one goal in 12 games.

Robertson of course asked for a trade over the summer and there were real questions about whether or not he would be playing for the Maple Leafs at all this season. He has begun 2024-25 in Toronto, but this new sign indicates that he might be the move sooner than later.

If the Maple Leafs listen to their former GM Burke’s advice…