What Happened
William Nylander was available for the Toronto Maple Leafs against the San Jose Sharks on Monday night after being listed as a game-time decision because of an illness. Nylander skipped the morning skate, and head coach Jim Hiller said his status would be settled closer to puck drop. Nylander participated in warm-up before the game. Bo Groulx had filled in as a placeholder on the top line at practice.
Key Details
- Nylander missed Monday's morning skate due to illness.
- Hiller said his status would be decided closer to game time.
- Nylander took part in warm-up before puck drop.
- He was slated to skate with Auston Matthews and Jack Roslovic.
- Nylander had five goals and seven assists in the first seven games.
- Toronto had lost three straight and sat last in the Atlantic.
What It Means
Nylander's availability keeps Toronto's top line intact as the team tries to end a three-game skid. He had been among the club's most productive forwards early in the season, with 12 points in seven games before a two-game point drought. His presence matters for a lineup that had been preparing for the possibility of using Bo Groulx in his spot.