Detroit Red Wings linked to acquiring 23-year-old Toronto Maple Leafs forward: A change of scenery is needed

With the Toronto Maple Leafs currently in a cap crunch, they'll have to find a way to save extra cash.

That could involve moving on from forward 23-year-old Nick Robertson.

Robertson has played only 156 games in the NHL for the Maple Leafs in limited usage and scored 56 points (32-24). For the Leafs, their loss could be the Red Wings' gain.

The Detroit Red Wings are one team who are linked to the Maple Leafs forward, who recently signed a $1.89 million AAV deal to avoid arbitration with the Leafs.

He's been featured in the team's bottom-six, against his will. He could use a fresh start in the NHL.

The Detroit Red Wings are ultimately in the hunt for a playoff spot in 2025-26. With the amount of aging talent in the forward core, they could find utilization of Robertson for the team should other players like James Van Riemsdyk fall to injury.

Robertson, who scored 15 goals last season, could find a way to contribute to the Red Wings' offense as a middle-six option.

Unlike Toronto, where he's had to play limited, sheltered minutes, he could find himself with more responsibility in Detroit, giving him a bigger role.

Trade scenarios that are currently being thrown out might include a goaltending prospect like Trey Augustine (more likely Sebastian Cossa), who could help fortify the Maple Leafs' crease, which has been tended by Anthony Stolarz successfully last season.

Or otherwise the team could move a depth forward like Mason Appleton, and a mid-round pick.