Nylander refuses to discuss his contract status after today, welcomes the challenge of playing center

Nylander met with the media following his first on-ice training camp session of the season on Thursday, echoing once again his desire to remain in Toronto well beyond this season. He also told members of the media that he won't be responding to further questions about his contract status, much like Auston Matthews informed the media around this time last year.

One of the big stories involving Nylander coming out of training camp this year is that Sheldon Keefe plans to try the 27-year-old at center, at least during the pre-season. Today, Nylander was taking reps at center, with Max Domi and Calle Jarnkrok as his linemates in what could be a very dangerous third line if they stay together beyond the pre-season. When asked about the move to center, Nylander affirmed that he's fine to play wherever Keefe wants him to play.

Obviously, Nylander is taking a huge gamble by not extending this summer, following a career high 87-point season. If his shift to center does not pay off or if he struggles to produce at a similar rate this season, the Leafs' offer could very much go down. The one ace-in-the-hole for him is that he'll be eligible to talk to other teams on July 1st, 2024. If other teams put together competitive offers at or above the $10M AAV range, Nylander can use those figures to improve his negotiating power in talks with the Leafs. However, if he struggles or if, God forbid, he suffers an injury which limits his ability to play, this decision could end up costing him money over the long-term.