William Nylander misses Sweden’s practice due to maintenance, status vs. Italy TBD

William Nylander missed Sweden’s practice on Tuesday and his status for Wednesday’s game against Italy is to be determined.

Nylander was held out of practice due to maintenance.

“It’s a maintenance thing,” Sweden head coach Sam Hallam said via TSN’s Mark Masters. “He’s done two full practices with us and felt after yesterday a bit sore so just give him an extra day. We’ll see for tomorrow if he’s ready to go or it’s going to be a pretty late decision.”

Nylander returned to action for the Toronto Maple Leafs on January 31 after aggravating a groin injury during a January 15 contest against the Vegas Golden Knights. The dynamic winger has missed 17 games due to injuries this year, but leads the Maple Leafs in scoring with 18 goals and 52 points in 40 games.

“I’m not overly concerned at all. He’s been looking really sharp and good on the ice for two days,” Hallam said. “Felt that we give him (off) today. I mean, it’s short-term, but we’re still in the beginning of it and bigger games coming up, so let’s keep our priorities and focus there.”

Maple Leafs and Sweden teammate Oliver Ekman-Larsson indicated that Nylander is fine, while revealing that they are roommates in the Olympic Village. Ekman-Larsson is expected to be paired with Vegas Golden Knights defenceman Rasmus Andersson, although he could operate as an alternate through the round-robin.

Filip Forsberg skated in Nylander’s place on a line with Adrian Kempe and Joel Eriksson Ek, via Mollie Walker of the New York Post. Pontus Holmberg or Marcus Johansson could potentially slot into Sweden’s opening game lineup, if Nylander is unable to play. Nylander is a focal point of Sweden’s attack, and was one of the first six players named to this year’s roster.

Sweden opens its schedule against Italy, before squaring off against Finland on Friday and Slovakia on Saturday.