“Always be ready,” Robertson said to TSN’s OverDrive. “Toronto, we had such a talented team, I would get in the mix with some players. I had to be on my game all the time, whether that was with (Craig Berube) or (Sheldon Keefe) in my first full year. But I think it’s always a blessing in disguise because you can’t get complacent. Whether you’re up and down the lineup, you got to work your way to either get up in the lineup or to stay there.”

Robertson recorded a career-best 16 goals and 32 points in 78 games with the Maple Leafs last season. He was often used in a third-line role under Craig Berube. Robertson’s per 60 metrics and advanced stats painted the profile of a player who could benefit from extended playing time in a top-six role, but he never turned into the consistent scorer that the Maple Leafs hoped he’d become, after bursting onto the scene during the 2020 playoffs.

“It’s been great to get the deal gone, and not go to arbitration is nice. I’m just excited for this new opportunity in Pittsburgh, it’s a fresh start, I’m pumped,” Robertson said of joining the Penguins.

“It was a really big focus for me to get some term and to settle in, and give me time to get some runway in Pittsburgh. I’m happy the way it turned out, and I’m really excited.”

Robertson has clearly turned the page, and said he spoke to Dan Muse and Kyle Dubas upon joining the Penguins. There’s been a clear emphasis on Robertson getting a fresh start with a new team, and perhaps an extended role within the top-six. Robertson is now joining Sidney Crosby (the first player to text him upon joining the Penguins) and Evgeni Malkin, as the future Hall of Famers desperately attempt to push towards another extended playoff run. Circle your 2027 calendar, as Robertson returns to Toronto with the Penguins on January 16.

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