Nylander on Robertson’s unnecessary pushes: ‘I wasn’t ready’

Bérubé, however, seemed more interested in focusing on the team’s overall effort during the game rather than dwelling on the details of the collision. “I think the guys competed well,” he commented. He then clarified that he views these moments as part of the growth process, especially for young players like Robertson.

This stance begs the question: Is this simply a minor learning moment for the Maple Leafs, or is the coaching staff downplaying a potentially bigger problem?

Behind the scenes: What was probably said in the locker room?

Listening to this interview, my first thought was to imagine what was going on behind the scenes. While public statements from Robertson and Bérubé downplayed the significance of the collision, what happened behind closed doors in the locker room? It’s probably a little more complex.

Nylander, one of the team’s best players, could have expressed his frustration at not being able to finish the game. His big task is to get reps at center, and he hasn’t been able to do that. I’m guessing, based on other locker rooms I’ve been in (and knowing Nylander), that he probably didn’t tear up Robertson. At the same time, the result was zero. Preseason games are designed to refine systems and build chemistry. Yet they also carry a risk of injury.

Robertson likely received quiet “teaching” words from veteran players and coaches. They probably crossed the line between reprimanding and reassuring. However, they wouldn’t miss the opportunity to remind Robertson that attention to detail is key. In a league where split-second decisions make the difference, Robertson will likely take this experience as a lesson in judgment and responsibility.

Is this just a learning experience or a bigger deal?

On the surface, this seems like a minor preseason mishap, something that could happen to any NHL player. However, this problem has several layers. Nylander is not an average player. His potential injury, even if minor, has everyone who watched it collectively shaking their heads. The coaching staff and front office must have blinked. With Nylander experimenting at center and the team’s chemistry still forming, any setbacks in his preparation could have broader implications for the season. Worse still, a more prolonged injury would have set the team back.

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Bérubé’s reaction, which focuses more on the effort than the result, suggests he views this as a learning opportunity for Robertson and other young players. But it’s also fair to assume that the organization is quietly holding its breath, waiting to make sure Nylander is truly okay. They say he’s doing well.

What’s next for the Maple Leafs?

Going forward, you can bet that Robertson will be more careful in similar situations. At the same time, the team dodged a bullet. Bérubé will continue to emphasize the importance of competing hard and learning from your mistakes. Now he has an obvious error to point out with a simple message: don’t do this!

All indications suggest Nylander is fine, with the team downplaying the severity of the injury. Still, this incident reminds us of the fine line between competing hard and putting any player in danger. The Maple Leafs will be relieved if Nylander returns to form quickly.

But Robertson’s response: “It kind of happened” may not sit comfortably within the organization. He’ll get a mulligan, but he’ll also be expected to get his head screwed pretty good as the season progresses.