Maple Leafs Confirm Nick Robertson May Yet Lose His Roster Spot
As training camp approaches, Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube revealed that with the additions up front, Nick Robertson may very well lose his roster spot.
The Toronto Maple Leafs have made a handful of additions to the forward group this summer, bringing in Nicolas Roy, Dakota Joshua and Mattias Maccelli. The trio has given the Maple Leafs forward depth they have not seen in years and affords head coach Craig Berube an abundance of different combinations that he can tinker with.
Unfortunately, those additions and GM Brad Treliving's inability to find takers for Calle Jarnkrok and David Kampf have pushed one forward to the brink of losing his roster spot.
In an in-depth interview with The Athletic's Jonas Siegel this week, Berube revealed that he is looking forward to a competitive training camp with a few players battling for roster spots.
One of those players is confirmed to be 23-year-old Nick Robertson, who signed another one-year deal with the Leafs in early August.
When asked about where Robertson fits in with all the new personnel, Berube indicated the former second-round pick will have to earn his spot.
"There's a lot of competition at camp. I'll leave it at that. There's a lot of competition at camp, which is great. I think it makes for a competitive camp and that's what we want, because that's gong to get us more prepared for the regular season. I don't have the answer to that right now. There's jobs available... it's a competition. You have to come in and play your ass off and earn a spot."
For Robertson, having to earn his spot is nothing new entering training camp. He has had to battle through competition in each of his first five seasons with the Leafs. Robertson skated in a career-high 69 games last season where he tallied 15 goals and 22 points and earned praise from Berube at times, but also found himself in the press box on occasion.
For Robertson, the Leafs know he can score, and they'll need secondary scoring without Marner, but he will have to find a way to be more consistent with his defensive play without the puck to earn a full-time roster spot.
Andrei Markov Homecoming Night Set for December 3rd as Canadiens Celebrate Iconic Defenseman’s Legacy
The Montreal Canadiens are gearing up for an emotional and memorable evening, as Andrei Markov returns to the Bell Centre on December 3rd for a special Homecoming Night against the Winnipeg Jets. The night will celebrate Markov’s illustrious 16-season career in a Canadiens uniform, where he played 990 games and became one of the most respected defensemen in franchise history.
Markov, who spent his entire NHL career with the Canadiens, was a key part of the team’s defense and a leader on the blue line. Over the years, his quiet yet effective presence, elite skating, and powerful slap shot helped define the Canadiens’ style of play. Markov was a fixture in Montreal’s lineup from 2000 until his retirement in 2017, earning a reputation as a top-tier defenseman and a fan favorite. He was a constant contributor in both the power play and penalty kill, playing a major role in every aspect of the team’s success during his tenure.
In recognition of his incredible 16 seasons and 990 games with the Canadiens, the team will honor Markov during the game on December 3rd. Fans are eagerly anticipating this tribute to one of the most influential players in modern Canadiens history.
Markov’s impact on Montreal was undeniable. He was part of a golden era for the Canadiens, contributing to numerous playoff runs and remaining a key figure in the franchise’s pursuit of success. His leadership on and off the ice made him a beloved figure in Montreal, and his legacy will be forever linked to the Canadiens' storied history.
The night will feature a special ceremony, with Markov likely to be joined by former teammates, coaches, and other members of the Canadiens’ organization. Fans can expect a memorable tribute to one of the NHL's most decorated defensemen. Markov’s accomplishments include over 400 career points and several All-Star appearances, but perhaps more importantly, he was a mainstay in the Canadiens' defensive corps, providing stability, reliability, and leadership through many highs and lows.
In a statement, Markov expressed his gratitude: “I’m truly honored by this recognition. Montreal has always felt like home to me, and to have my career celebrated in front of the fans who supported me through every moment means the world. I’ll forever cherish my time with the Canadiens, and I’m excited to return to the Bell Centre for this special night.”
For fans who grew up watching Markov’s deft passes, clutch plays, and calm under pressure, this Homecoming Night will be a chance to show their appreciation and celebrate a true legend of the game.
As the Canadiens move forward into a new era, Markov’s legacy remains a shining example of dedication, professionalism, and love for the game. December 3rd will undoubtedly be an unforgettable night for Markov, the Canadiens, and the loyal fans who have supported him every step of the way.
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