Nick Robertson Embraces Opportunity as Toronto Maple Leafs Prepare for Playoffs

Nick Robertson, a young player for the Toronto Maple Leafs, is preparing for his first NHL playoff series against the Boston Bruins. He recalls watching the Leafs play the Bruins in the playoffs in 2019 and feeling inspired by the desperation to win that he witnessed. Now, five years later, Robertson is ready to experience that same desperation for himself. The Leafs’ Game 1 lineup is still uncertain, but with William Nylander and Bobby McMann absent from practice due to injuries, Robertson has an opportunity to play. He views this as his first official NHL playoff game and is determined to make the most of it. After a season filled with obstacles, including injuries and the need to develop his offensive consistency, Robertson has proven himself deserving of a lineup spot. He has stayed healthy for the entire regular season and has shown consistent offensive production. Despite not always getting the breaks he hoped for in his career, Robertson has remained calm and focused. He has learned that he can be a player in the NHL and has gained confidence in his abilities. The final question for Robertson is whether he can round out his game and show more defensive responsibility. He has been working with Leafs assistant coach Guy Boucher to improve his defensive skills and playing alongside defensively-minded forwards in the playoffs should help him in that regard. Robertson is no longer the nervous player he was in 2020; he believes he can handle the pressure and perform well in the playoffs. He is excited to live out his dreams and is focused on executing his game plan.