Maple Leafs' Nicholas Robertson Addresses Future After Reported Contract Decision
The Toronto Maple Leafs entered the offseason much earlier than expected after failing to make the playoffs, and they are now facing key front office and roster decisions ahead of the summer.
When it comes to their players, a situation drawing attention for a third consecutive season involves forward Nicholas Robertson, who is coming off a career-best season and is headed into restricted free agency.
Robertson has been playing on one-year deals for the past two years following the end of his entry-level deal in July 2024.
The winger set career highs this season with 16 goals, 16 assists, and 32 points across 78 games, establishing himself as a middle-six NHL forward.
According to Sportsnet's Luke Fox, Robertson is not expected to accept his qualifying offer if he's given one by the new Leafs management. Instead, Fox reported the 24-year-old is looking to secure a longer-term deal for the first time in his career.
"Robertson - an impending restricted free agent for the third summer in a row - is armed with valuable arbitration rights," Fox reported. "He won't sign his $1.825 million qualifying offer, assuming the Leafs' next GM gives him one. That heavy shot alone is worth a couple (offer) sheets, and the lack of security in signing a series of one-year contracts can be taxing."
Robertson addressed his future during the final media availability of the Leafs season, acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding his next step.
"I mean, obviously it's a lot thinking about where I stand with the team next season and whatnot, but I don't really think about it too much," Robertson said.
Luke Fox reports that #LeafsForever forward Nicholas Robertson is unlikely to accept his $1.825M qualifying offer and is seeking a longer-term deal based on how his play improved last season
— Maple Leafs News (@budsallday34) April 30, 2026
Robertson made it clear that his decision will depend on the role he's offered and how the organization values him going forward, as told to The Athletic's Joshua Kloke.
"I want to be somewhere where I'm wanted," Robertson said. "That's up to the team, whether they want me or not. Whether that's here, or somewhere else, I know a team will want me.
"I don't know what the future holds for me here. Every full season I've played here, it's been a ‘prove it' season. I'm used to it at this point. It would be nice to get some term. Obviously it has to be for the right price."
Toronto is projected to have $22.2 million in cap space this offseason, with 20 players in their active roster under contract.
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This story was originally published May 2, 2026 at 11:25 AM.