Today a new trade rumor has surfaced as the offseason continues this time a trade would send Nick Robertson out West in return for a former top 5 overall pick.
Earlier this offseason reports started to come in surrounding Maple Leafs prospect Nick Robertson. Once thought of as the organization's top prospect he has since struggled to crack the roster. As a result, sources believe Nick Robertson has requested a trade. Despite those reports, Brad Treliving remains committed to keeping him.
Brad Treliving on Nick Robertson's trade request: We look at Nick as an excellent player, and there's great opportunity for Nick here, and we need him to be a good player for us.
However, a new mock trade has come through that could be an opportunity for the Maple Leafs to move on from Nick Robertson and bring in a prospect who could fit better.
Rumor connects the Maple Leafs to former top 5 overall pick
With Nick Robertson potentially on his way out one name that has been connected to a trade for him is Alex Turcotte of the Los Angeles Kings. For those who might not remember Alex Turcotte was the 5th overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft. He was considered one of the top defensive forwards in that draft.
Now that #LeafsForever's Nick Robertson has requested a trade, could a swap with 2019 5th overall pick Alex Turcotte be in the cards?
Both need a change of scenery, and LA could utilize Robertson's scoring better. Turcotte could slot in the the Leafs' bottom-six nicely.
Who do you think would win this trade?
Since being drafted both Nick Robertson and Alex Turcotte have struggled with injuries and inconsistency. The Los Angeles Kings are set at the center ice position with Quinton Byfield, Anze Kopitar, and Philip Danault but could use help on the wing. The inverse is true for the Toronto Maple Leafs who have been desperate for a third-line center which Alex Turcotte could provide while he continues to develop.
The addition of Alex Turcotte could also provide an eventual succession plan for when John Tavares leaves as well if Alex Turcotte can get back to the player everyone saw at the USA National Team Development Program.
With the season quickly approaching Brad Treliving needs to make a decision on whether or not to move Nick Robertson. As the situation continues to develop keep checking back for more updates.