Toronto Maple Leafs fans can breathe a cautious sigh of relief regarding the status of star forward William Nylander. The team's leading scorer, who left Saturday night's game against the Ottawa Senators with a lower-body injury, has received a positive initial update from head coach Craig Berube.
Injury Scare During Crucial Victory
The incident occurred during the second period of the Maple Leafs' 7-5 victory over the Ottawa Senators at Scotiabank Arena on December 27, 2025. Nylander, who had opened the scoring just 40 seconds into the first period on a power-play feed from captain Auston Matthews, did not return to the game after departing the ice.
His absence immediately raised concerns for a team in the thick of a tense playoff race in the NHL's Eastern Conference.
Berube's Optimistic Post-Game Comments
Following the game, Coach Craig Berube delivered news that suggests the injury may not be long-term. "He's coming on the trip, so that's a good sign," Berube stated, referring to the team's upcoming game against the Detroit Red Wings.
Berube indicated that Nylander's status would be re-evaluated on Sunday, ahead of the contest in Detroit. The Leafs are then scheduled to return home to face the New Jersey Devils on Tuesday night.
Nylander's Vital Role in the Lineup
The potential loss of Nylander would be a significant blow to Toronto's offensive firepower. At the time of the injury, the dynamic winger had compiled 41 points in just 33 games, placing him among the top 20 scorers in the entire National Hockey League.
Teammates were quick to acknowledge his importance. "He is a big part of this team and drives a lot of play for us," said Auston Matthews. "You're hoping for the best." Forward Matthew Knies added, "It sucks to lose a guy like that, he's so dynamic."
The Leafs have already felt his absence this season, posting a record of 2-2-0 in the four games Nylander missed earlier in the 2025-26 campaign.
Playoff Implications for the Maple Leafs
The update comes at a critical juncture. Despite the win over Ottawa, the Maple Leafs remain in 15th place in the Eastern Conference. However, they closed the gap to within three points of the second wild-card spot.
The path remains challenging, with six other teams currently situated between Toronto and that final playoff position. Maintaining the health of core players like William Nylander is paramount for any sustained push up the standings.
The team's immediate challenge is a Detroit Red Wings squad that, despite a negative goal differential, holds first place in the Atlantic Division with 47 points.
For now, the fact that Nylander is traveling with the club offers a glimmer of hope that one of the NHL's most electrifying players may not be sidelined for long.
