NHL: St. Louis Blues at Toronto Maple Leafs - Source: ImagnCraig Berube makes his thoughts on William Nylander’s mounting struggles extremely clear. (Image Source: Imagn).

William Nylander is currently tied with Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner as the leading goal scorers for the Toronto Maple Leafs this season. However, the 28-year-old Swedish is facing challenges that are holding him back from reaching his full potential.

Out of nine goals, Nylander has only found the back of the net once. Following the Leafs’ 4-3 loss to the Bruins on Saturday, HC Craig Berube noted that while Nylander was creating many opportunities early in the season, the powerplay’s inability has been a significant issue for the forward.

He said (via Leafslatest on X):

“Early on, he was creating a lot of opportunities. But the power play is not scoring, and he produces on the power play. I think a bit of frustration has set in for him right now due to not getting enough clean looks.”

“(We’re) talking to him, trying to help him out and showing him things he can do better. Also, there is not much chemistry with his line right now.”

In the recent loss to the Bruins, William Nylander played on the second line with Max Domi and Bobby McMann. However, the line underperformed significantly at even strength. As the Leafs look to improve, getting Nylander back to his best will be crucial for the club.

William Nylander and Maple Leafs face third straight loss

After a solid start to the season, the Maple Leafs have lost three consecutive games, including two ‘heavy defeats to the Columbus Blue Jackets and St. Louis Blues before falling to the Boston Bruins on Saturday.

Brad Marchand picked up his first goal of the season after scoring at 2:26 in overtime to secure a 4-6 win over the Toronto Maple Leafs. Mitch Marner and Auston Matthews had a solid game for the Leafs, accumulating three and two points, respectively.

Meanwhile, William Nylander registered two shots on goal. The Leafs (4-4-1) are currently fourth in the Atlantic Division with nine points and 17th overall in the league standings.

They’ll be up against the league leaders, the Winnipeg Jets, on Monday at the Canadian Life Center. The puck drops at 7:30 p.m. ET.