William Nylander's Comments on John Tavares From Recent Interview Turn Heads
Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images
William Nylander's comments on John Tavares during the NHL's European Tour proves that while Auston Matthews may be captain; #91 still leads in several ways.
The NHL had their European tour wrap up recently as several players headed overseas to promote the league, especially in anticipation of the Olympics in 2026, where the league will have the majority of the representatives.
William Nylander was one of those players on the tour and seemed to enjoy his time while in Italy, being able to rub elbows with Serie A superstar Rafael Leao.
What Nylander Said About Tavares' Leadership
But his interview with XM Sirius Radio opened up a lot of eyes, and his comments towards former captain John Tavares show that not only is there a ton of love for the veteran still; but he might still be a leader in other ways:
Yeah, I mean, he's been an incredible leader for me and I've learned a lot from him both on and off the ice. He's been great for the team and showed his commitment to wanting to wake up in Toronto.
So I think everybody on the team appreciates that a lot, and that shows leadership for sure.
So I think everybody on the team appreciates that a lot, and that shows leadership for sure.
Not only is Nylander gracious for Tavares being a huge reason why he hit 45 goals last season, and has shown that loyalty trumps everything by taking a massive contract hit in order to finish out his time in Toronto.
How Tavares' Influence Shapes the Leafs' Locker Room
Besides being a leader on the ice, Tavares being someone who lives and breathes Maple Leafs is a great sign for the future and it's already paying off. You have to think Nylander and Matthew Knies signed their extensions knowing Tavares was sticking around.
It also proves to free agents that you can be treated with respect in Toronto, media be damned. The proof is in the pudding, and there are a ton of players locked down and there's very few comments if any that show people are unhappy in Leafs Nation.
Having that type of leader, who not only still performs at the top of his game but can mentor the young players and show them that if they stick with things it can benefit them, it might turn Toronto into an incredibly well-oiled machine.
That means that if he gets going come playoff time, others are going to follow suit and if he along with someone like Matias Maccelli or Bobby McMann can break out in the postseason; they have their former captain to thank.
Tavares had 74 points in 75 games last season (38 goals, 36 assists) and was a crucial reason why Toronto's power play was so dominant last season (12 PPG).
The loyalty John Tavares has shown to the Maple Leafs is undeniable, and it's a lesson to their other players.
Stick with the team through the highs and the lows, something is going to give eventually.
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