Toronto Maple Leafs forward Nick Robertson agreed to a new one-year deal worth $875,000, but it may not have secured his future with the franchise just yet.

Daily Faceoff’s Frank Seravalli reported that Robertson is ‘still more likely to be traded than open the season’ with the Maple Leafs, upon signing the new deal. Seravalli also reported that it would be easier for the Maple Leafs to trade Robertson now that he’s under contract, as opposed to him operating as a restricted free agent.

Robertson requested a trade earlier this summer and it’s unclear whether he still wants out, after inking a new pact with the team.

Robertson recorded 14 goals and 27 points in 56 games last season, while often fighting for playing time under Sheldon Keefe’s supervision. Keefe would bench Robertson often for defensive lapses, but the soon-to-be 23-year-old finished T78th in the NHL in goals for/60 via Natural Stat Trick, ahead of Nazem Kadri and Travis Konecny among others, with a plus-six goal differential at 5-on-5.

It’s clear that Robertson has the offensive talent to stick in the NHL and that will be the selling point for any suitor. Robertson is still entering his prime, has a tremendous shot and plays with all-out aggression despite his diminutive frame. If the Maple Leafs elect to retain him, Robertson will likely be battling against Bobby McMann for a second-line spot on the left wing. Robertson’s new deal constitutes a cost-effective bet for the Maple Leafs, while the young winger will now have his contract settled, on a mission to upgrade his potential value on the open market next summer.

It appears that Robertson’s status for the 2024-25 season still appears to be a work in progress, despite reaching a new deal Tuesday. Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube reportedly met with Robertson this summer, detailing that he has a real opportunity to stick in the lineup, given the current roster construction.