As the postseason approaches, the Toronto Maple Leafs‘ third line of Nicholas Robertson, Max Domi, and Bobby McMann is starting to look like a force that could provide the secondary scoring Toronto will need to make a deep playoff run. All three line members are unique; each player stands out in this partnership. After Monday’s game, head coach Craig Berube lauded the line.
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If the line works, Robertson and Domi seem to have the most to gain. McMann has succeeded with and without the other two, but the Maple Leafs have sometimes seemed befuddled in using Robertson and Domi in the most sagacious ways. Both have skills but need a unique match with another partner to manifest those skills fully. If this line can work and grow, it could be what the Maple Leafs need to take their game to the next level.
The Maple Leafs Third Line: A Dynamic Trio with Potential
With the lineup beginning to stabilize as the trade deadline acquisitions settle in, the third line of Domi, McMann, and Robertson is showing flashes of brilliance. When these three are firing and confident, they form a dynamic unit that can be as dangerous as any third line in the NHL. Domi is the agitator and playmaker, McMann provides the physical presence and puck protection, and Robertson brings speed, elusiveness, and a dangerous shot to the mix.
“We play fast when we’re at our best,” McMann said. “We’re trying to get up quick, chip pucks, then get on it first. When we do that … those two guys are so slippery that they can make plays out of the corners. I try to find ice or get to the net, and it works.” (from “A reunited third line could be the difference for the Maple Leafs come playoff time,” Kevin McGran, The Toronto Star, 18/3/2025)
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This chemistry was fully displayed in the Maple Leafs’ dominant 6-2 win over the Calgary Flames on Monday, where all three players found the back of the net. That game was a flashback to the stretch in December when the trio was clicking, and it’s clear they have the potential to be a difference-maker when the playoffs arrive. Last night’s Colorado Avalanche win was a tough game to judge the line, but they held their own, as did the rest of the team.
Robertson’s Growth: Confidence Building for the Postseason
For Robertson, this has been a season of growth. At 23 years old, his confidence builds as he gains experience. His game on Monday was his 57th of the season. That’s a career-high, and he’s steadily proving that he can be relied upon for offensive contributions. His shot is one of the most dangerous on the team, and when he can get space in the offensive zone, he can make a huge impact. What’s most impressive is that he makes up his mind quickly and, almost as quickly, gets a shot on the net.
He also buys into the line’s potential. He noted that the line was “looking for each other but keeping our game smart. We’re at our best when we keep it simple. We know our strengths and stick to them.”
However, the line has had its inconsistencies at times. While they’ve shown potential, their play has sometimes dipped. Against the Flames, Robertson scored his first goal in seven games, and McMann scored his first in 13. It seems these ebbs and flows (especially for McMann) are part of the journey. However, when they’re on, the third line can give the Maple Leafs the depth scoring that can tip the scales in tight playoff games.
The Maple Leafs’ Third Line’s Role in the Playoffs
In the postseason, secondary scoring is often the key to success. When the top lines get neutralized by opposing teams, it’s up to the bottom six to step up. That’s where the third line comes into play. The line’s ability to contribute takes the pressure off the top two lines and can be a game-changer in close matchups.
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Domi’s recent uptick in play has heightened the potential of this line. With two goals and two assists in his last five games, he has been a significant factor in the third line’s success. His ability to shoot and pass confidently, combined with his speed and physical play, makes him a key component of this trio. Robertson has noticed the change in Domi’s game, and their chemistry continues to grow.
“He’s shooting the puck,” Robertson said. “He’s confident in his shot and is starting to shoot. As much as he passes, he’s got a great shot. He’s an unselfish teammate who wants to set up guys, so we must tell him to keep shooting.”
While Robertson, McMann, and Domi have been inconsistent, they’ve been able to generate momentum. The postseason can be all about momentum, and if they can carry the performance from Monday’s game into the playoffs, the Maple Leafs could have a playoff weapon in their third line.
Robertson’s Potential to Shine When it Matters Most
Robertson’s role in all of this cannot be understated. His offensive instincts, shooting ability, and speed will be crucial when the intensity of the postseason ramps up. He has been up and down and has gone stretches without scoring. However, he’s recently playing with a new level of confidence that will make him an asset. But something about this third line gives him—at least so far—what he needs to prosper. Can that continue?
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As the playoffs near, the Maple Leafs hope this line will continue to find its rhythm. If it can, Robertson, alongside Domi and McMann, could provide the secondary scoring that Toronto will need to make a serious run at the Stanley Cup. When everything clicks, the Maple Leafs’ third line can generate offense. Together, the threesome has the potential to be a game-changer in the postseason. Keep an eye on this line—it might be the key to Toronto’s playoff success.
