William Nylander says he’s “super excited” to start Maple Leafs training camp on a line with Gavin McKenna

TORONTO — William Nylander opened Toronto Maple Leafs training camp on the first day in a top-line role alongside 2026 NHL Draft No. 1 pick Gavin McKenna and veteran captain John Tavares. Nylander said the opportunity is “a game-changer,” adding that the team “has been built a different way,” and he described his feelings heading into camp as “super excited.”

According to the NHL announcement, the Maple Leafs’ coaching staff led by new coach Jim Hiller highlighted why the early combination makes sense, noting McKenna is living at the Tavares family home. Hiller said that arrangement allows McKenna to learn good habits while also being able to pick Tavares’ brain both at and away from the rink. On opening day, Hiller said his attention on the ice was not specifically focused on McKenna by name, but that “I see Gavin.”

The release also credits the rookie with making an impression in practice, including a specific example from Thursday when McKenna was boxed in by defenseman Chris Tanev and escaped the pressure before making a “saucer pass into space,” as described by Hiller. The NHL.com report states Tavares believes McKenna’s playmaking through traffic should help create open ice for Nylander.

For his part, the announcement says McKenna experienced more intensity and pace on Day 1 than during informal skates with teammates earlier in camp. The NHL.com report includes that McKenna described the experience as fun, while focusing on playing his game and attacking toward the net alongside skilled linemates.

Finally, the Maple Leafs’ other top-center combination begins with Auston Matthews at center between Matthew Knies and newcomer Jack Roslovic. The NHL release states that Matthews and Roslovic were linemates in the U.S. National Junior Program and are looking to renew that on-ice connection as the team’s camp continues.

Written by Vancouver Television Sports Desk