Maple Leafs make two roster moves before facing Rangers.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have made some adjustments to their lineup just shortly ahead of their clash with the New York Rangers later tonight.

According to an official announcement, the Maple Leafs will once again be sending 22 year old forward Nicholas Robertson back down to the American Hockey League to join the Toronto Marlies. The move comes as a response to another roster move, the activation of injured forward Calle Jarnkrok back onto the main roster.

Sheldon Keefe had indicated earlier in the day that Jarnkrok was expected to be in the lineup this evening but it was unclear how the Maple Leafs would adjust to make room for Jarnkrok on their roster.

The decision to send Robertson down likely stems entirely from the fact that the Maple Leafs do not need to send him through waivers, loaning him directly to the Marlies instead. If the Maple Leafs had opted to send down a player like Noah Gregor for example, Gregor would have needed to pass through waivers before that move could be completed and that in turn would give rival NHL teams a chance to claim him.

That being said, the plight of Nicholas Robertson has been one that has resonated with many Maple Leaf fans over the years and as a result there are some who aren't thrilled to see him sent back down to the AHL. That list very likely includes Robertson himself.

Robertson has appeared in 41 NHL games for the Maple Leafs this season and has 8 goals and 11 assists for a total of 19 points to his name so far.