Since training camp began in September and William Nylander didn’t show up with the rest of the Toronto Maple Leafs, much digital ink has been spilled over his future in hockey’s fishbowl. After breaking into the NHL down the stretch of the 2015-16 season, the Swedish forward recorded consecutive 61 point seasons, totaling 135 points over the 185 games his entry-level contract lasted.
As a restricted free agent without arbitration rights, Nylander had little to no leverage. His only options were to accept a contract favorable to Toronto, or hold out, and he’s chosen the latter option.