Maple Leafs’ Nick Robertson ruled out vs. Avalanche with lower-body injury

Toronto Maple Leafs forward Nick Robertson left Monday’s game against the Colorado Avalanche with a lower-body injury and will not return.

Robertson was slow to get up, after blocking a shot from Avalanche defenceman Josh Manson during the first period. The play was eventually halted, and Robertson eventually skated to the locker room with the assistance of trainers. Robertson was later seen speaking with trainers, via Sportsnet’s broadcast. Shortly before the second period, Robertson was officially ruled out of the game. Bobby McMann was moved up to the third line in Robertson’s absence.

It would be a tough loss if Robertson further time. Robertson is playing some of the best hockey of his career, finding real chemistry on the third line with Easton Cowan and Nicolas Roy. After the game, Sportsnet’s Luke Fox reported that Robertson walking around without any issue.

Robertson has recorded 10 goals and 22 points in 43 games this season, on pace for the best statistical output of his career.

“Nicky’s skating and attacking, and he’s doing a lot of good things,” Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube said of Robertson’s game in December. “Hounding everywhere, and he’s getting his opportunities, scored a goal tonight, had a couple of other chances. It’s all work for him, when he’s skating and working, he’s a good player.”

“I think all year, Robby’s taken a major step in his play, and the way he plays in all facets,” John Tavares said of Robertson. “When you do a lot of good things in a lot of areas, and the way he uses his speed, and has really become strong on the puck, and strong on his feet, and the way he’s battling and competing

Robertson signed a one-year contract worth $1.825 million with the Maple Leafs in August, avoiding arbitration. He has proven his value in the lineup throughout the year, while playing with consistent speed and tenacity.

It’s likely that the Maple Leafs will provide a further update on Robertson’s status after Monday’s game. If Robertson cannot play Tuesday against the Utah Mammoth, Calle Jarnkrok is the likeliest option to replace Robertson in the lineup.