A 1-2-3 of Matthews, Nylander and Tavares down the middle also brings with it the potential for greater offensive depth. The Leafs have been reliant, overly so at times, on two lines to generate offence over the years, another point of detriment in past postseasons.

At the start of the Maple Leafs' training camp, Nylander, 26 years old and brother of fellow Leafs forward William, explained his reasoning pointing to Toronto’s strong development system and the influence of his brother, William Nylander.

The Toronto Maple Leafs and one of their star forwards are reportedly open to negotiating a new deal during the season.

Ironically, Pacioretty is wearing his familiar No. 67 with Toronto. That’s a sensitive number for Maple Leafs supporters, since opposing fans around the NHL often chant “Sixteeeee-seven” when Toronto is in town in reference to the last time the franchise won the Stanley Cup: 1967.

Toronto Maple Leafs star forward William Nylander took a jab at his former coach Sheldon Keefe as he will be a centerman this season.

Toronto Maple Leafs training camp is underway. Going into camp, there are several notes and news coming out of Leafs Land. On Wednesday, the Maple Leafs had their media day.

Nylander began Maple Leafs training camp last season at center, but the experiment was cut short after just two games.

Leafs head coach Craig Berube and general manager Brad Treliving absolutely want William Nylander playing centre.

In Craig Berube’s first meeting with the media on the opening day of training camp, he answered a question that lots of fans had been pondering in the weeks leading up to it – will William Nylander play centre?