Ray Ferraro anticipated William Nylander’s huge Game 2 vs. Panthers: ‘Big-game performer’

William Nylander is making some noise in Toronto right now by tuning out the world.

Nylander posted back-to-back multi-goal efforts, first against the Ottawa Senators in a closeout Game 6, then again in Game 1 against the Florida Panthers to help his group gain an early series lead. Following a Game 2 performance against the Panthers where Nylander added another timely goal, he’s up to six goals and 13 points, tied with Connor McDavid for the playoff scoring lead at the time of this filing.

Former NHLer turned broadcaster Ray Ferraro joined Nick Alberga and Jay Rosehill on Leafs Morning Take ahead of Game 2, to discuss all things about the Maple Leafs’ playoff run.

“I’m a Nylander fan, and one of the reasons is he looks impervious to noise,” Ferraro said. “Whatever’s going on, he’s gonna play the way that he thinks is the best way to play a certain situation.”

Toronto’s Core Four is no doubt stacked with offensive talent, but they have long been criticized for failing to step up to task in crucial moments. Some credit that to an inability to deal with the pressure of Toronto’s highly critical market. Nylander, on the other hand, can play through the noise.

Two years ago against the Panthers, Nylander scored in Games 4 and 5 as the team faced elimination, giving his all when they needed to save their season. Now with a chance for redemption, he’s already off to a solid start with two big goals in Game 1 and another key goal in Game 2.

“The first goal was just throw it through the screen and get it to the net,” Ferraro recounted. “The second one, to elevate the puck, down on his knees, to getting it up over Bobrovsky’s glove, those are scorer’s goals. Most guys fire that right into the Panther’s crest or they hit him right in the arm.”

If the Leafs want to go on a deep playoff run, they’ll need contributions from across their offensive stars, but Ferraro touted Nylander as a leader on the attack who can be a difference-maker throughout the playoffs.

“I think he’s the type of player that if the Leafs can get further on, he will be thought of as a big-game performer,” Ferraro said. “I think he’s got that type of make.”

Ferraro’s premonition proved to be correct, as Nylander and the Leafs now hold a 2-0 lead over the Panthers.