William Nylander: The Toronto Maple Leafs’ Hit or Miss Dilemma
When William Nylander signed his 8-year, $11.5 million per season contract extension with the Toronto Maple Leafs last January, there was no shortage of praise from fans and critics alike. After all, Nylander had just finished one of the best seasons of his career, posting a career-high 40 goals and 87 points. Many analysts speculated that the hefty contract would come with great expectations, but Nylander responded by proving his doubters wrong. In the 2023-2024 season, he not only reached the 40-goal mark again, but he also amassed 98 points, narrowly missing the 100-point milestone. His performance has been exceptional, and the Maple Leafs have benefitted from his scoring ability.
However, as the 2024-2025 season progresses, a subtle, but increasingly noticeable, issue has emerged: Nylander has been largely absent in the physical department. Specifically, he’s barely registered any hits. This apparent lack of physicality has raised eyebrows and sparked debates about his role on the team and whether his success on the scoresheet is enough to justify his lack of involvement in the gritty aspects of the game. In a sport like hockey, where battles are often won and lost in the corners and along the boards, this raises the question: Is Nylander’s lack of hits a serious flaw, or is it an aspect of his game that should be left to other players?
The 2024-2025 Season: Offensive Power Meets Defensive Disinterest
Nylander’s offensive output continues to be a bright spot for the Toronto Maple Leafs. As of mid-December, he is on track for his third consecutive 40-goal season, and with his 98 points in the previous campaign, his offensive consistency has made him one of the top forwards in the NHL. His speed, vision, and ability to finish plays make him a constant threat on the ice.
Yet, while Nylander’s offensive numbers are nothing short of remarkable, his lack of physicality has raised concerns. The numbers are startling: In a league where body contact is integral to the flow of the game, Nylander has recorded only two hits in 32 games this season. This low total has prompted some frustration from both fans and analysts who have criticized the Swedish forward’s lack of involvement in the physical side of the game. After all, a player who is on the ice for extended shifts is expected to engage in all facets of the game, and hitting is a key component, particularly for someone in a top-six role.
The Case for Physicality in Modern Hockey
Hockey is a fast, hard-hitting sport where the physical element plays a crucial role. Hitting disrupts plays, makes opposing players hesitant, and can shift the momentum of a game. Even if a player like Nylander isn’t expected to be a bruiser, a couple of well-timed hits can make a significant difference. It’s not just about intimidation or aggression; it’s about creating space for teammates and forcing opponents into making mistakes.
In fact, even a minimal amount of physical contact can have far-reaching effects. A well-executed hit can knock an opposing player off balance, causing a turnover or disrupting a pass. The anticipation of a hit can also make players hurry their decisions, which often results in inaccurate passes or mistimed shots. In short, hitting isn’t just about the physical toll on opponents; it’s about creating opportunities and affecting the game in subtle, strategic ways.
So why, then, does Nylander shy away from this aspect of the game? The answer isn’t so simple.
Is It a Skill Issue or a Mental One?
One of the primary reasons Nylander has been criticized for his lack of physicality is that it seems so out of place for a player of his caliber. Despite his offensive prowess, he doesn’t appear to be reluctant or intimidated when facing physical challenges—he simply chooses not to engage. Some might argue that his skill set is too valuable to risk injury by getting involved in heavy contact situations. After all, he’s not a power forward; he’s a highly skilled winger whose game is built on speed, finesse, and playmaking ability.
However, this approach can be seen as somewhat limiting. It’s one thing to avoid unnecessary risks, but it’s another to completely ignore the physical elements that have long been integral to the NHL’s DNA. While not every player is expected to throw bone-crushing hits, all players must have some level of physicality in their game, whether it’s in battling for pucks, positioning themselves in front of the net, or engaging in battles along the boards. The lack of physicality in Nylander’s game can’t be entirely attributed to an aversion to risk; it’s a conscious decision to play the game without putting himself in those situations.
It’s worth noting that not all players have the same style. Some thrive in physical confrontations, while others excel in more skill-based situations. But in the modern NHL, where speed and skill are paramount, the line between physicality and finesse is becoming increasingly blurred. Even the most skilled players must understand that their ability to win battles, gain puck possession, and create space for their teammates can be greatly enhanced by simply adding a few more hits into their game.
What Does This Mean for the Toronto Maple Leafs?
For the Toronto Maple Leafs, Nylander’s lack of physicality raises some important questions. In a franchise with high expectations—especially given the team’s pursuit of a Stanley Cup after decades of near-misses—can the team afford to have a top player like Nylander avoid physicality altogether?
The answer depends on the team’s overall composition. The Leafs have a strong roster, but they lack players who are known for their physicality and grit. Players like Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner are known for their skill and playmaking ability, while the team has relied on players like Ryan Reaves and Luke Schenn to provide the physical edge. If Nylander isn’t willing to contribute to the physical side of the game, it puts more pressure on other players to pick up the slack.
The Leafs’ coaching staff, led by head coach Craig Berube, will likely continue to encourage Nylander to engage physically. As Nylander continues to develop as a player, it may become evident that a more well-rounded game will not only benefit him but also the team. Perhaps his reluctance to hit stems from a lack of necessity in his previous years in the league, but with Toronto’s championship aspirations hanging in the balance, it may be time for Nylander to evolve into a more complete player—one who can make an impact offensively while also contributing physically.
Nylander’s Future: A Step Toward Becoming a True Superstar
Ultimately, Nylander’s lack of physicality shouldn’t overshadow his accomplishments on the ice. His skill and scoring ability are undeniable, and the Maple Leafs are lucky to have such a dynamic player on their roster. However, for Nylander to take his game to the next level—and for the Leafs to have a better chance at winning the elusive Stanley Cup—the addition of more physicality could be the missing ingredient.
The season is still young, and Nylander’s physical game could evolve as the pressure increases. If he can add a few more hits to his resume without compromising his offensive production, it will only make him more dangerous and difficult to play against. The Toronto Maple Leafs have invested heavily in Nylander, and if he can round out his game by embracing the physical side of hockey, he will elevate both his individual performance and the team’s overall success.
In the end, it’s not just about scoring goals; it’s about being well-rounded and adaptable. If Nylander can find a way to blend his finesse with a bit more grit, he will not only silence his critics but also take the next step toward becoming a true superstar in the NHL.
