Nylander and McMann are still potential options for the Maple Leafs in Game 1 versus the Bruins.
The Toronto Maple Leafs hit the ice in Boston on Friday in anticipation of their first-round series against the Bruins starting the following day, but one of their top scorers was conspicuously absent. William Nylander, who played all 82 games this season and notched a career-best 98 points (40 goals, 58 assists), was notably missing from practice. Maple Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe explained that Nylander was held off the ice along with Bobby McMann, leaving their availability for the upcoming game uncertain.
McMann had been sidelined for the final two regular-season games due to a lower-body injury sustained in a previous match against the Detroit Red Wings. Despite his absence, McMann had a standout season with career highs in games played (56), goals (15), and assists (nine) while contributing notably to Toronto’s second line alongside John Tavares and Mitch Marner.
While Tavares expressed hope that McMann’s absence would not be prolonged, the specifics of Nylander’s situation remained unclear. Coach Keefe indicated that Nylander would likely be ready for Game 1, though his presence in the lineup was not confirmed. Nylander’s status left his teammates, like fellow Swede Calle Jarnkrok, uncertain about his availability, emphasizing the importance of his potential contribution to the team’s playoff campaign.
