William Nylander Admits the Maple Leafs Are in Unfamiliar Territory
For years, the Toronto Maple Leafs have been known as a regular-season powerhouse, a team that usually finds a way to win even when things aren’t perfect. That’s why what’s happening right now feels so jarring, especially for someone like William Nylander, who has rarely looked rattled during his NHL career. But after another tough loss, even Nylander is admitting this stretch feels different.
The Leafs wrapped up a frustrating three-game road trip in Dallas with a 5–1 loss to the Stars, finishing the swing without a single win. On paper, it was the kind of game Toronto might normally shrug off. They controlled possession, outshot a strong opponent, and generated chances. But moral victories are no longer enough. Not anymore. The slide started with a lifeless 4–0 shutout against Washington, and while there were small positives against Nashville and Dallas, the results simply haven’t followed.
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Against the Stars, much of the credit was given to goaltender Jake Oettinger, who turned aside 27 shots and made life miserable for Toronto’s shooters. The Leafs also failed on all four of their power-play opportunities, pushing their already struggling man-advantage even deeper into league-worst territory. Still, Nylander didn’t hide behind excuses. Instead, the focus was turned inward.
Scoring, by his own admission, has become a grind. With no goals in his last 11 games, the drought is clearly weighing on him. He acknowledged that when he isn’t clicking, it makes things easier for opposing goalies. That honesty revealed just how unfamiliar this situation is for him. Throughout his time in Toronto, regular-season success has almost always been there. Even during his early call-up years, expectations were low and pressure was minimal. This, however, feels heavier.
“I don’t know if I’ve ever felt like this before,” Nylander admitted, reflecting on a slump that seems to be testing him mentally as much as physically. That moment after speaking to the media said a lot. Instead of rushing off, he sat alone, scrolling through his phone, clearly bothered by where things stand.
For the Leafs’ core, including Nylander and Auston Matthews, this stretch represents uncharted territory. Veterans around the league have pointed out that long losing streaks can happen, even in seasons that end successfully. The message is simple: keep grinding. Still, this is a true test of character.
The atmosphere around the team has shifted noticeably. The optimism Nylander expressed back in mid-November has faded, just as he warned it might if the losses continued. Now, as the Leafs return home to face Pittsburgh, the question is no longer about talent. It’s about response. Where this team goes next will be decided by how they handle this moment.
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