The Toronto Maple Leafs are feeling shorthanded in game one tonight. And that might spell trouble. The 2024 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs begin tonight as the Leafs are in Boston to take on the Bruins. William Nylander and Bobby McMann each have an injury and will not suit up for tonight. For Nylander specifically, it is described as undisclosed. In addition, it is noted that Nylander’s ailment, whatever it is, was reaggravated in the team’s season finale against the Tampa Bay Lightning. This definitely adds a layer of complexity to kick-start the series for the Leafs. Moreover, the Leafs are already underdogs in the series and will be in tough without one of their top scorers. It’s tough to know who will step up for the Leafs, but look for Max Domi to jump into the top-six as a result.
William Nylander Will Miss Game One with an Injury
Nylander is not playing
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) April 20, 2024
William Nylander being out with an injury is a huge loss for the Toronto Maple Leafs. In 2023-24, he was able to establish himself as an elite scorer. He scored 40 goals and 58 assists this season. Toronto does believe they are a deep team, but being without Nylander does hurt them offensively. Someone will have to step up.
One of those players who won’t be able to step up for game one is Bobby McMann. McMann also being out hurts the Leafs as he has been great at stepping up. In addition, McMann had 15 goals in 56 games. Therefore, he has been a great example of someone stepping up when need be for the Leafs. His three multi-goal games since February have been clutch down the stretch.
What Do these Injuries Mean for Toronto
The Leafs will be tough with a William Nylander injury and hence, not a full line-up against the Boston Bruins. Boston’s players just seem to fill roles and make it very difficult for teams to breathe. However, the Leafs can come in waves. Being without Nylander and McMann does cut into the Leafs ability to that type of offensive attack. Especially Nylander, the Leafs need to be full staffed to keep a sustained attack going.
Main photo: Kim Klement Neitzel | 2024 Apr 17 USA Today Sports
