Maple Leafs' William Nylander leads NHL in elite stat amid team struggles

Not all is bad news for the Toronto Maple Leafs. William Nylander, for example, is one of the positive aspects of the franchise this season.

According to Sportsnet, the Swedish forward has recorded a point in 88.9% of the Maple Leafs' games to date, leading this production consistency stat outright among the most elite names in the NHL.

Unlike other players, his greatest virtue is the consistency of his impact. Beyond flashes of quality, in every game, he contributes to the team's offense, whether with goals or assists. In the past week, even in losses, he has left his mark on the scoresheet.

His impact is also reflected in his role and usage. He has heavy minutes at five-on-five and a role on the power play, with a production rate fitting of a primary driver.

How to maximize William Nylander in the Maple Leafs system

To get the best out of him, Toronto must work on pairing him with the right players. Head coach Craig Berube must keep him as the primary carrier of the zone entry. Repeated controlled entries allow him to exploit his puck-handling and vision. Giving him the first option in neutral zone regroups increases his rate of productive possession.

It is also necessary to stabilize his wingers. Pairing him with a one-timer finisher on the weak side and an aggressive retriever on the forecheck for second-chance opportunities. 

As for the power play, the ideal would be to place him as a half-wall playmaker, with the freedom to swap positions with the bumper and the net-front player. When Nylander can alternate between passing and shooting, the unit becomes less predictable.

Berube must also pay attention to quick transitions. A clean first pass from the defense will accelerate his rush chances. Toronto must put first zone exits with close support so Nylander receives the puck in motion.