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Maple Leafs Prospect Nick Robertson Named CHL Sportsman of the Year

Maple Leafs prospect Nick Robertson won yet another award. What was it?

In a news announcement today (June 4), the Toronto Maple Leafs organization reported that its prize prospect Nick Robertson had claimed yet another honor. This time he was named CHL Sportsman of the Year.

In winning the honor, the pint-sized, full-of-heart young player beat out other CHL nominees Jakob Pelletier (of the Moncton Wildcats) and Seth Jarvis (of the Portland Winterhawks) for the award.

The CHL Sportsman of the Year Award is given out annually to the most sportsmanlike player in the Canadian Hockey League. To win the award, a player must first win the William Hanley Trophy of the OHL (Ontario Hockey League), the Frank J. Selke Memorial Trophy of the QMJHL (Quebec Major Junior Hockey League), or the Brad Hornung Trophy of the WHL (Western Hockey League).

Related: Ex-Maple Leafs Coach Mike Babcock Shows Up and Expounds on Hockey and Accountability

Congratulations to Robertson for a Great Season

We at NHLTradeTalk.com want to congratulate Robertson on his award. The Award, presented by Cavendish Farms, shows that not only is Robertson a terror on the ice but he’s a great guy both on and off the ice. It’s a great combination for a player to be able to score 55 goals in just 46 games but also to do it with sportsmanship.

As noted, this is yet another great award for the budding young star. Things seem to be rolling right along for the 18-year old. He just learned that his season might not be over, and he was just named by Maple Leafs general manager Kyle Dubas to be one of a group of Black Aces who will join the team’s roster for the postseason. A mini-version of training camp will begin in July – at least that’s the plan; and, if it opens, an excited young player will be part of that group.

Robertson’s Gracious in Accepting the Award

Robertson, in accepting the award, noted:

“I want to thank the CHL for awarding me the most sportsmanlike player of the year. I just want to thank my organization the Peterborough Petes as well as the GM Mike Oke, head coach Rob Wilson, and my teammates. And, finally, I’d like to thank the fans in Peterborough for all of their support and making it an electrifying building every night. I hope everyone stays safe and healthy.”

Once again, Robertson has shown that he’s a thoughtful young player who hasn’t lost track of the context in which this award has been given. Sadly, people are battling and sometimes losing to this horrible disease – COVID-19. It’s good for him to take his eyes off himself to remember to warn people to stay healthy.

Maple Leafs fans now have another reason to look forward to seeing this exciting young talent in action. His rise up the Maple Leafs organizational ladder has come quickly, but today he’s shown that he’s far from finished. Winning the CHL’s Sportsman of the Year is quite an honor. Other winners include players such as Nick Suzuki (2016-17), Mark Stone (2011–12), Kris Russell (2005–06), Jeff Carter (2004–05), and Pat Falloon (way back in 1990–91).

Related: Is Current Maple Leafs Defenseman Tyson Barrie a Good Fit for the Winnipeg Jets?

Can Robertson Be as Good in the NHL as He’s Been in the CHL?

The only question left about Robertson is whether he can repeat the all-round success he’s experienced in the CHL in the NHL. At this point, it’s hard to bet against the youngster. Everything points to the fact that he’s simply going to be one of those rare and special players who carry success well. So far, so good.

Robertson’s resume is growing weekly. As a fan, it will be great to see how he does as he takes his next step towards the Maple Leafs roster. There’s a chance we’ll get to see this sooner rather than later. He might just add some NHL playoff hockey to his ballooning resumé.

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