Leafs expect Nylander to play game 4 vs. Bruins

A return seems evident with hopeful news out of Toronto this morning as Maple Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe said they are expecting forward William Nylander to draw into the lineup for game 4 vs. Boston.

It was made aware a few days ago that Nylander’s mysterious absence had to do with migraines. Migraines so severe, that the Maple Leafs doctors checked him for a concussion. In 2022, Nylander switched to a tinted visor and told the media the reasoning was due to migraines he had suffered the previous year.

Nylander stuck around for extra work with projected scratches Noah Gregor and Martin Jones following the morning skate on Wednesday and there were signs that a return was coming.

The 27-year-old spoke to the media after the practice on Friday, and while he did not say whether he would be in the lineup on Saturday, he said he is in good condition.

One of the hardest parts of not playing has been having to sit and watch the games. “The games are crazy to watch from home,” Nylander said. “I’ve never been so nervous in my life, but I think the guys are doing a great job, and tomorrow’s a big game.”

When the Swedish product was asked about any challenges facing him if he returns for Game 4.

“Nothing,” Nylander responded. “Because I’ve been skating and everything. I’m like, ‘Okay, I’m fine.’”

Meanwhile, Keefe has also announced that defenseman T.J. Brodie will replace Timothy Liljegren on the third pairing, forward Nick Robertson draws into the lineup and Connor Dewar appears to be the scratch.

Robertson talied 14 goals and 27 points in 56 games during the 2023-24 regular season.