The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly ready to move on from rising star Nick Robertson, and a potential trade could see them acquiring former No. 2 overall pick Kaapo Kakko from the New York Rangers. This proposed swap deal would give both teams a chance to address key needs ahead of the upcoming season.
Despite completing several big moves this offseason, the Maple Leafs still have unresolved issues, including Robertson’s reported desire to leave the team. Robertson, who played his first full NHL season last year, is said to be frustrated with his role in Toronto. While the team has supported him through injury struggles, Robertson is seeking a bigger opportunity elsewhere.
It’s unclear how much league-wide interest there is in Robertson, but this trade proposal offers an intriguing possibility. The deal would see the Maple Leafs send Robertson and an additional draft pick to New York in exchange for Kakko. This could benefit both sides—New York would gain a player with significant upside, while Toronto would bring in a former top pick who could thrive in a new environment.
Toronto may also consider pursuing draft picks in exchange for Robertson, giving them more flexibility at the trade deadline. However, if they can secure Kakko, who has played 300 NHL games and scored 31 goals over the past two seasons, he could fit perfectly into a bottom-six role alongside veteran players.
With Robertson reportedly unhappy and without a defined role on the team, trading him for Kakko could be a low-risk, high-reward move for Leafs general manager Brad Treliving as the 2024–25 season approaches. The deal would give Toronto a chance to add a promising young player who could excel in a larger role, while allowing Robertson to find a fresh start elsewhere.
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