William Nylander will boom or bust under new coach Craig Berube

Nylander showcased his offensive prowess early on, tallying 20 goals and 35 assists for 55 points in his first 37 games, being held pointless in only four of those outings. This stellar performance earned him an eight-year, $11.5 million extension on January 8, 2024, solidifying his reputation as one of the most dynamic offensive wingers in the NHL.

However, Nylander's production slowed down as the season progressed, raising concerns about his inconsistency, lack of defensive effort, and physicality. His +1 rating despite scoring 98 points highlights these issues. Berube's north-south system could challenge Nylander to be more assertive, utilizing his elite skating to cut to the interior and create high-danger scoring chances. Additionally, a heightened focus on defense could elevate his game further.

The primary concern is Nylander's adaptation to Berube's structured system, given his free-flowing style of play. While a new contract and coach present a fresh start, Nylander's willingness to adjust will determine his success. With potential changes in the team's core, Nylander's growth under Berube's guidance is crucial for his continued development as one of the NHL's top wingers. Ultimately, the responsibility to take the next step lies with Nylander himself.

Source: Maple Leafs Daily
Berube will either be Nylander's rocket fuel or his kryptonite