Leafs’ Nylander Misses Third Consecutive Playoff Game Due to Undisclosed Injury
William Nylander’s return appears imminent, yet the Maple Leafs winger remains sidelined from playoff action.
Nylander sat out his third consecutive game in Toronto’s first-round series against the Boston Bruins on Wednesday, still recuperating from an undisclosed injury.
The 27-year-old participated in line drills with Calle Jarnkrok and Pontus Holmberg during Wednesday’s morning skate, following his absence in the initial two games of the series. However, he remained on the ice after practice with the expected scratches.
For the third game in a row, Nylander’s spot in the lineup was filled by rookie forward Nick Robertson.
Meanwhile, Toronto center Auston Matthews skipped the morning skate but was ready for Game 3, contributing significantly with a game-winning goal and two assists in Monday’s victory in Boston.
Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe hinted at the possibility of Nylander returning for Game 3 at home, but the Swede remained sidelined, missing his first playoff games after playing all 82 regular-season matches.
Nylander showcased his offensive prowess with 40 goals and a career-high 98 points in the 2023-24 season. However, his production tapered off towards the end of the season, recording only four assists in his last 11 appearances.
Mitch Marner, another key player for the Leafs, emphasized Nylander’s importance to the team’s success, especially offensively.
Although Nylander has faced illness-related absences before, this marks his first injury-related sidelining since November 2016.
The Leafs and Bruins, familiar playoff rivals, are facing off in the first round for the fourth time in 12 years, with Boston emerging victorious in their previous three encounters.
Bruins head coach Jim Montgomery, when asked about Nylander’s status, humorously remarked, “I’m hoping he’s not playing.”
Nylander’s absence highlights Toronto’s depth and the need for other players to step up, a sentiment echoed by Marner.
With a 48-hour break between Games 3 and 4, Keefe expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance despite missing Nylander, emphasizing the team’s collective effort and commitment to winning regardless of lineup changes.
