William Nylander, a Maple Leafs player, breaks his silence on….

William Nylander is essential to the Toronto Maple Leafs, even if he is unable to participate in Game 4 of their Eastern Conference first-round series against the Boston Bruins.

When they play the Bruins on Saturday at 8 p.m. ET, the Maple Leafs are behind 2-1. In the series, they have only managed six goals.

Nylander concluded the regular season with 40 goals and 98 points, good for third place among all Toronto players in playoff points from 2016–17. He led the Maple Leafs in scoring in the 2021 playoffs with eight points in seven games.

Throughout the regular season, Nylander did not miss a single game, but after the final regular-season game, he awoke the next morning with an issue that needed to be resolved. He missed the first three playoff games and has been “very stiff” ever since.

According to Joshua Kloke of The Athletic, Nylander seemed at ease throughout Toronto’s whole Friday practice. But after that, Nylander would not say for sure what kind of injury he had or whether he would be able to play on Saturday.

He said, “Look, that’s just personal,” referring to the particulars of his issue. “I won’t go into that, then.”

How does he fit into the fourth game?

Nylander said, “Let’s see; I’m not sure.”

Nylander did not say much on Friday, but at least he was talking. He has never before addressed the public about his situation.

Understandably, Maple Leafs coach Sheldon Keefe declined to offer any further information.

Keefe said, “I felt he looked good on the ice.” “We’ll have to talk about his situation tomorrow.”

“It’s been difficult for you to miss these first playoff games after playing the entire season,” Nylander finally remarked. This is the time to have some fun. I should be returning soon, hopefully.