William Nylander is back with the Toronto Maple Leafs, ready to make a playoff push after his Olympic journey. The 29-year-old returned from the 2026 Winter Olympics, where Auston Matthews and Team USA knocked out Sweden in a thrilling overtime quarterfinal. Nylander, in his Olympic debut, notched two goals and four points over five games.
"It's great to be back," Nylander shared, reflecting on the intense competition in Milan. Despite the Swedes' late equalizer against Team USA, it was Quinn Hughes who sealed the deal for the Americans with an overtime goal, propelling them to the medal rounds. Matthews and Team USA went on to defeat Slovakia and then clinched gold against Canada in another overtime showdown.
Though Nylander hasn't caught up with Matthews since his teammate's golden triumph, he expressed genuine happiness for him. "I'm super happy for him," Nylander said. "Of course, I'm upset we lost, but if anyone else had to win it, I'm glad it was him."
Nylander, contemplating the four-year wait until the next Olympics, is determined to focus on the present. Back with the Maple Leafs, he resumed his spot on the second line alongside Matias Maccelli and Calle Jarnkrok, filling in for the absent John Tavares.
Having dealt with a groin injury before the Olympics, Nylander missed some practice time in Milan, making his return to form even more intriguing. "It was nice to rest both body and mind after that loss," Nylander noted. "Now, I'm fired up to help us make a playoff push."
Coach Craig Berube was optimistic about Nylander's return, noting his readiness and positive mindset. "Normal Willy," Berube commented. "He's good to go, both mentally and physically."
Meanwhile, Auston Matthews is expected to play against the Lightning after Team USA's scheduled visit to the White House. Nylander leads the Leafs with 18 goals and 52 points in 40 games, as Toronto sits six points shy of the final wild-card spot, currently held by the Boston Bruins.
With crucial games against divisional rivals like the Lightning, Panthers, and Senators on the horizon, every win is vital. "Every game is a battle," Nylander emphasized. "If we play the way we want, it'll build character and be great for us."