Article content

They see what he does every day.

And yet, the jaws of William Nylander’s teammates with the Maple Leafs drop from time to time.

Before the Leafs and Ottawa Senators meet Tuesday night at Scotiabank Arena, the latest example came Saturday in the Leafs’ 4-1 win over the Montreal Canadiens.

We apologize, but this video has failed to load.

Play video

In what could become Nylander’s best goal of 2024-25, he carried the puck through the neutral zone on a Toronto power play, cut through the Canadiens defense and beat goaltender Samuel Montembeault low side of the glove.

Article content

It’s the kind of goal that doesn’t happen often in the National Hockey League anymore.

Article content

“It takes a lot of time to be able to read that in this scenario, because often there’s not that space there, so being able to read it, take it, and then enjoy it and get to the bottom of it nets, it’s really impressive,” said Leafs winger Bobby McMann.

“His confidence with the puck is unmatched. He’s capable of making plays when there doesn’t seem to be a play to be made, and the puck hit the back of the net for him, and rightly so. He created a lot of chances.

Heading into Tuesday’s NHL games, Nylander’s 11 goals tied him for second in the league. And he was on track to reach 56, which would erase his season high of 40, achieved twice.

“He’s so relaxed,” winger Nick Robertson said. “I don’t even know if he has a routine, he just comes to the rink with a big smile, gets on the ice and scores goals.

“I wish I could be like that, but maybe one day.”

[email protected]

X: @koshtorontosun

Share this article on your social network