Leafs star winger issues very similar statement to the one Johnny Gaudreau issued before he left Calgary

PUBLICATION

Mike Armenti
September 24, 2023 (10:57)

SHARE THIS STORY

It's not the most desirable situation to be in, but it would appear as though William Nylander and the Leafs will not enter the 2023-24 season with an extension in place. Obviously, there was some hope this summer after Auston Matthews had signed his new groundbreaking extension that Nylander would follow suit, but now, according to insider TSN Hockey Insider Chris Johnston, it looks like Nylander is taking the same exact approach that former Flames winger Johnny Gaudreau did before he signed in Columbus as a UFA.

"Facing reporters on the opening day of #leafs training camp, William Nylander reiterated his desire to stay in Toronto long term and politely said he won't be fielding any more questions on his contract status."

It's worth noting that Nylander and Gaudreau actually share an agent. Lewis Gross represents both players, and he also represents one of Nylander's best friends and former teammates in Rasmus Sandin. Gross appears to be following the same playbook that he utilized during the Gaudreau negotiations, right down to the letter. Nylander has essentially issued an identical statement to the one Gaudreau's made before he left Calgary.

Nylander, 27, had a remarkable season last year, scoring 40 goals and 87 points - both career highs. Nylander seems a little more convincing about wanting to be a Leaf long-term than Gaudreau was in his final year in Calgary, but even still, there's still a strong chance that Nylander chooses to walk away - especially if this season doesn't go the way he hopes it will.