Craig Berube Reveals What His Relationship With William Nylander is Like After Recent Slump

William Nylander has always been a bit of a hot and cold player for the Maple Leafs. When he's cold, it's very obvious that he's struggling. However, when he's hot, there are very few NHL players who can do what he can do.

Over his last 5 games, Nylander has produced 4 goals and 5 points. However, when we zoom out to see the bigger picture and view his 11-game window from December 23rd through January 14th, his 1 goal in that span sticks out like a sore thumb.

Nylander, who was recently the target of some heavy criticism from fans and the media over some controversial comments, did also add 5 assists over that period of time, bringing him up to 6 points in those 11 games, but given what we know about the player and how highly skilled he is, 6 points in an 11-game span does leave something to be desired.

Leafs coach Craig Berube hasn't harped on Nylander too much during his rough patch, and with Nylander having produced 3 goals and 4 points in his last 2 games, he may very well be entering one of his hot phases again, much to the delight of Berube, his teammates and the fan base.

On Monday, the Leafs welcome the Tampa Bay Lightning to Scotiabank Arena. The hope is that Nylander can continue to produce and be an effective player in all 3 zones.

Berube was asked following Monday's morning skate about Nylander's hot and cold play. Naturally, Berube, who is rumoured to be a very strong communicator with his players, provided a very thoughtful response.

Berube confirmed that the lines of communication are very open between he and Nylander, confirming that their relationship is a two-way street and that he does just as much listening as he does talking.

Perhaps the current dynamic between Berube and Nylander is one of the reasons why the Swedish superstar is on pace for a career high 47 goals this season.

A coach can provide the game plan, but it's up to the players to go out there and execute it to perfection. Why wouldn't a coach want a player's input if the player feels strongly that he can produce better with some say in how the plays are run?

The Leafs currently lead the Atlantic Division with a 29-16-2 record through 47 games. They sit 3 points up on the 2nd place Florida Panthers, and can extend that lead to 5 points tonight with a win over the Lightning.

Let's hope Nylander comes ready to play, especially with former captain John Tavares still absent with an injury, which he suffered during practice last week.