Nick Robertson May Return to Maple Leafs Lineup Against Sharks as Flu Bug Re-Emerges in Locker Room
Robertson was slated to be a healthy scratch for the third consecutive game following the team's practice on Monday.
Nick Robertson may return to the Toronto Maple Leafs lineup when they host the San Jose Sharks at Scotiabank Arena on Tuesday.
Expected to be a healthy scratch for the third consecutive game, Maple Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe said a flu bug has returned to their locker room and that might open up a spot for the 22-year-old to return.
"We've got some illnesses that's popped back up again here today and it might be tonight that Robertson gets back in," Keefe said. "So take advantage of those opportunities."
Robertson has missed the last two games as a healthy scratch in favor of Pontus Holmberg, who has played the last couple of games as a winger for the time with the club.
"We're looking at where we could fit in Holmberg and (Bobby) McMann fit well playing with (David) Kampf and I just thought Robertson was the guy."
Keefe has generally been happy with Robertson's play this season but added that the forward hadn't done enough to separate himself from the pack when making lineup decisions as to who is in or out.
"I've talked to him about the importance of taking care of the pucks and being able to execute plays," Keefe added. "He's an offensive guy. When there's a chance to make a play or pass or shoot on the goalie, a lot of those plays have sort of slipped off his stick or haven't been quite smooth and it sort of disrupted the offense, which leads to having to defend more."
Robertson has five goals and six assists in 24 games with the Maple Leafs this season.
It's not clear exactly who is sick that might open the door for Robertson. However, Noah Gregor did not take part in the team's optional skate and has regularly done so this season on gamedays.
A flu bug has forced Auston Matthews, Matthew Knies and TJ Brodie are among Maple Leafs who have missed at least one game due to the flu this season.
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