Something has changed for William Nylander this season and one Leafs netminder reveals what it is
After an up and down start to his season, Maple Leafs goaltender Ilya Samsonov has bounced back nicely the last two games. He stopped 27 of 29 shots against Vancouver last Saturday and 31 of 33 against Detroit yesterday. Samsonov seems to be finding his game finally, the Leafs are settling in defensively and William Nylander continues to rack up the points.
The Leafs were down by two heading into the third and Nylander's 15-game point streak was on the line before he set up Tyler Bertuzzi to get the Leafs on the board. He also added a goal and another assist on John Tavares' game-winning goal. The line combined for 8 points and Nylander extended his point streak to 16 games in the 3-2 win.
Following the game, Samsonov was asked about Nylander and what he has changed from last year. Samsonov revealed that it has nothing to do with the equipment he is using or his off-season training, but rather his maturity.
"I think he's quieter now. He believes in his skill more. For me, he looks mentally stronger," said Samsonov about the way Nylander is seeing the game right now.
Nylander had 10 goals and 22 points during his 15-game point streak. He is now up to 25 points in his first 16 games, thanks to his 3-point performance on Friday. He'll look to keep his streak alive on Sunday afternoon against the Minnesota Wild.
Previously on MapleLeafsDaily
| POLL | ||
NOVEMBRE 18 | 293 ANSWERS Something has changed for William Nylander this season and one Leafs netminder reveals what it is Will William Nylander sign an extension with the Leafs before they leave Stockholm? | ||
| No, this will drag out a lot longer | 171 | 58.4 % |
| No, but he'll sign before Christmas | 92 | 31.4 % |
| Yes, hopefully today or tomorrow! | 30 | 10.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
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