The latest updates on the Toronto Maple Leafs and William Nylander situation
TSN: Bob McKenzie and Pierre LeBrun on Insider Trading were asked about the latest on the stalemate between William Nylander and the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Bob McKenzie: There appears to be a lot of frustration and tension from both sides this week after some positive talks last week. The Maple Leafs are not closer to trading him because they can’t reach a deal at this point in time.
“But I can tell you this: with each passing day Nylander isn’t signed, there’s going to be an uptick in the number of teams that contact the Maple Leafs. And it may become more attractive for the Leafs to at least listen to what’s being pitched from these teams that are starting to gather.”
Pierre LeBrun: The Carolina Hurricanes are not the only team who is watching this situation. The Hurricanes would like to add a top-six forward and really like Nylander. Defenseman Brett Pesce‘s name has been mentioned.
“The point I would make though is if the Leafs can’t sign Nylander, why would Carolina be a candidate to sign Nylander?”
Chris Nichols of Nichols on Hockey: Darren Dreger was on TSN 1040 and was asked if he thought if it was possible that the Maple Leafs could trade William Nylander, and who might be interested.
Dreger says that it’s possible but it’s too early to say that it’s likely. Nylander needs to be signed before December 1st to be eligible to play this season, and it doesn’t make sense to have an asset that isn’t playing. doesn’t believe they are entertaining offers just yet or trying to generate more interest.
“Pierre LeBrun in the (Insider Trading) segment talked about Carolina’s ongoing interest in William Nylander. I think there are lots of teams that would obviously have interest. The Vegas Golden Knights are another team that definitely have interest in William Nylander.
“You’ve just got to get to the place – well, it’s twofold. What’s the expected rate of return, and what is William Nylander really going to sign for. If he’s unwilling to budge off a $7.5-8-plus million Average Annual Salary, is Carolina willing to pay that? That doesn’t sound likely. What about Vegas or any other team that’s interested.”
Dreger continues that the Maple Leafs could be getting closer to a place where they “at least willing to look at trade as a potential option.”