Nylander may have tipped his hand, revealing plans to sign monster extension in Toronto

With so much uncertainty surrounding the situation, Maple Leafs correspondant Dave McCarthy (NHL.com) recently had a chance to speak with Nylander and asked the impending free agent about why he thought Auston Matthews re-upped with the club this past summer instead of holding out for the best deal next summer. His response not only shined a light on how Matthews feels about the organization, the route they're on, and the city as a whole, but it also shines a light on Nylander's thought process and likelihood of extending his services beyond this season.

Nylander's thoughts echoes what has been said about the Maple Leafs over the last few seasons from a number of recent acquisitions, former players, and veterans who have fielded questions about the organization. The Maple Leafs hold a special place in the hockey world and being able to stick around, to be a part of something that most other cities couldn't offer, and potentially breaking the longest drought in the NHL is something worth staying around for. It's clear that Nylander recognizes that.

When McCarthy was later asked about the odds of Nylander re-signing with the club, he said "I don't bet, and I would place a bet on this one that he does." Obviously, McCarthy felt Nylander's love for the team and the city during their conversation.

Nylander hasn't shown any indication that he wants out of Toronto. He has turned into a bona-fide superstar before our eyes in the last few seasons, and it all boils down to the final dollars and cents on what should be a long-term deal.

In the all-important contract-year, Nylander leads the club with 17 assists and 29 points through 22 games and is 2nd in goals with 12, behind only Matthews' 16.