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William Nylander was caught drawing up a play with Craig Berube, and the clip says a lot


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Charlie McAfee
December 3, 2025  (5:40 PM)
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Maple Leafs forward William Nylander (88) laughs with head coach Craig Berube during a recent team practice.
Photo credit: Toronto Maple Leafs - X

Maple Leafs forward William Nylander may have a future in coaching after playing, and a recent clip online shows that he's already getting a head start.

Toronto Maple Leafs star William Nylander has never been shy about the spotlight, whether it be modelling some new fashion trends, or showcasing his life behind the scenes, being in front of the camera seems to be where Nylander is comfortable.
Behind the flash is a very smart player. Nylander's ability to read plays and add creativity has led to some unbelievable highlight-reel goals.
Though he's not thought of as a typical tactician, it looks like Nylander is starting to take that side of the game more seriously, and a new clip circulating online shows why.
A new video out of camp shows Nylander and head coach Craig Berube confiding in each other about potential strategies, with Nylander taking charge at times.
Both men were seen near a whiteboard where Berube discussed a play. After looking it over, Nylander grabbed the marker, drew up his own option and shared it with Berube, who nodded in acknowledgement. It was a small moment, but one that shows how involved he is in the details of Toronto's offense.

How Nylander taking the board shows where his game and role are now

While there is no indication of what the two were discussing in terms of the type of play or how it would be run, it shows that Nylander is taking the initiative to not only try and spark the team's offense, but get a better idea of how Berube's system works.
If the two can come together on a compromise where Nylander can offer his own ideas and work it into a Berube system, it could make his already impressive season even better.
It shows a level of leadership we don't often associate with Nylander, who usually keeps things light with the Toronto media. Now that there's a heavier focus on him as an offensive catalyst, moments like this suggest he's leaning into a bigger voice on and off the ice.
Not only is Nylander expected to lead the team offensively, but do so as well in the locker room and if he has the ability to motivate and rally his team without disparaging them or putting them down then it could lead to a more unified front.
So it's interesting to see William Nylander being a bit more strategic, as it could be a sign of what's to come for the superstar once he hangs up his skates.
For now, though, Maple Leafs fans will happily settle for a Nylander who can both draw it up on the board and finish it on the ice.
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William Nylander was caught drawing up a play with Craig Berube, and the clip says a lot

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