The Toronto Maple Leafs earned a 4–3 overtime win against the Buffalo Sabres on Saturday night, a result that included a much-needed breakthrough for winger Nick Robertson.
Robertson entered the game without a goal this season, just one assist in seven games, and had just returned from being a healthy scratch the night before.
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His first-period tally tied the game 1–1 and seemed to mark a shift in rhythm for both player and team, with the Leafs scoring another goal early in the second period and coming out winners 1:28 into overtime.
“Yeah, it was great,” Robertson said postgame. “I think it was good to get my confidence up, and obviously getting one… it feels really good.”
The 24-year-old winger has drawn increased attention in recent weeks as speculation around a potential trade resurfaces.
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He requested a trade last year before signing a one-year contract extension this summer, and remains a regular name in reports, though Leafs management has made clear they won’t deal him without a worthwhile return.
Robertson, who played on the top line alongside Auston Matthews and Bobby McMann on Saturday, noted how the change helped him ease into the action.
“It felt a little more familiar, just a little more puck touches,” Robertson said. “It was so much easier to get in the game.”
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Toronto Maple Leafs forward Nicholas Robertson (89) shoots the puck.John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports via Imagn Images
Asked about his mindset entering the game, Robertson said he came in with a sense of urgency to make up for his slow start to the season.
“Just got to come in… kind of had that advantage and wanted to come to the game, just play with a lot of energy.”
On the trade front, David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period shared the latest report on Robertson’s situation on Monday’s episode of the “Leafs Morning Take” podcast, revealing the Leafs are willing to move Robertson, but not giving him away.
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“They can give him away [and] someone will take him,” Pagnotta said. “But [Maple Leafs general manager] Brad Treliving has said that there’s a price. Unless that price is lowered, he’s gonna stick around.”
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Oct 27, 2025, where it first appeared in the NHL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.