Though Nylander might be understated, his teammates continue to be wowed by his performances. Count veteran Max Pacioretty, the former captain of the Montreal Canadiens who’s now playing on the second line with Nylander and John Tavares, as part of that group.
“I’m at a loss for words, because there are just so many words I can use to describe him,” the 36-year-old said. “I mean, he’s just all over it every night, always in a good spot, and works insanely hard. I think that aspect often gets overlooked because, you know, you’re kind of blown away by his skill.
“He’s just playing really really good hockey right now.”
And helping this edition of the Maple Leafs create their own history in the process. Indeed, this is the first time Toronto has had multiple 2-0 best-of-7 series leads during the same postseason in 62 years. It is also just sixth time in franchise history that has happened, 1963, 1962, 1949, 1948 and 1945 being the others.
It’s something that he embraces, even though he might not show it on the outside all the time.
Six years ago, however, he did.
At that time, there was confidence in his strut when he entered the NHL.com interview room at the 2019 NHL/NHLPA European Players Media Tour in Stockholm.
Just like there was in his words when he sat down.
“I’m looking forward to dominate,” he brashly said.
It was pure, unfiltered Willy Styles, right down to the core.
And, right now, he’s walking the walk after talking the talk.
