Nylander not satisfied with career year, drops quote of the year
It appears as though William Nylander's scoring slump has come to an end. The Leafs winger has ramped up his game over the past week in preparation for playoff hockey. It's hard to say anything negative about Nylander this season. He's played all 81 games and is just one goal shy of his first 40-goal campaign. Even if he doesn't bury number 40 tonight, he's already set new highs for himself in both goals and points.
With playoff matchups set and home ice advantage decided, all eyes are now on Game 1 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinal.
In an interview with The Athletic's Jonas Siegel, Nylander was asked if he is proud of his performance this season. His response was surprising, and absolutely perfect.
"When" - not "if" - "when we win." If that quote doesn't have you ready to run through a wall, consult a health care professional, because something is clearly not right. The normally soft spoken and light hearted Swede is all business now. 86 points? Who cares. 40 goals? Whatever. Nylander's idea of a successful season is one that sees, at the very least, an 8th playoff game. Anything else is an abject failure.
I can't think of a more perfect way to express the mentality of the team right now. If we're getting quotes like this from Willy, you know he and the rest of the team are 100% focused and ready. The passion level in Toronto is at an all-time high. It's time for the boys in blue to finally get it done.
The full interview is available here.
| POLL | ||
AVRIL 13 | 809 ANSWERS Nylander not satisfied with career year, drops quote of the year How long will the Leafs playoff run last? | ||
| 7 games | 93 | 11.5 % |
| 2nd round | 203 | 25.1 % |
| Conference finals | 268 | 33.1 % |
| Plan the parade! | 245 | 30.3 % |
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