Insider Says Maple Leafs Are Open to the Idea of Trading William Nylander

William Nylander made some eye-opening comments — or lack thereof — about what could happen if this 2025–26 season of missing the playoffs is more than just a one-off.

It could very well mean nothing, and that he remains committed to the Toronto Maple Leafs; however, we don’t know exactly whether the organization is still fully committed to him. According to insider Nick Kypreos, Nylander is no longer the untouchable he’s long been seen as, and the Maple Leafs were and will continue to be open to trade discussions involving the superstar winger.

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Kypreos said:

“He could be the guy that you move off of Knies and focus on what Willy Nylander’s potential would be to bring you back in a trade. I did hear that they were open to have conversations about Willy, and they should. It shouldn’t come as a shock to anybody; again, they’re one of the worst teams in the league here. So, I would explore everything, including Willy and Auston going into this offseason and seeing what kind of return I can get and how fast I can get this market rejuvenated and have them look forward to something. But you know Willy’s name isn’t a non-starter for the Toronto Maple Leafs anymore, as it shouldn’t be,”

The 29-year-old Nylander is in year two of the eight-year, $92 million extension he signed with the Maple Leafs in 2024, which includes a full no-movement clause throughout the entirety of the deal. He leads Toronto in scoring with 60 points (22 goals, 38 assists) despite having played in only 48 games this season.

Nylander is no stranger to seeing his name pop in and out of the rumor mill, though this summer feels as real as ever in terms of a potential trade coming to fruition. At this point, it seems somewhat inevitable that at least one core player will be moved in the offseason to shake up this roster.

Matthew Knies would appear most likely, given that he has no trade protection whatsoever. However, that doesn’t mean Nylander is completely safe himself, and even the captain, Matthews’ future with the Maple Leafs beyond this season is reported to be 50-50.

A team will have to come to GM Brad Treliving — or whoever may be in charge moving forward — with a massive offer for any of them, but, as Kypreos noted, plenty of teams are just a Nylander or Knies away from pushing themselves over the top, so there will be no shortage of suitors.

Next: William Nylander Hinting He Isn’t In for a Lengthy Retool with the Maple Leafs?