Sheldon Keefe Explains Why He Demoted William Nylander

His ice time has decreased over the last three games, and he has been held pointless while only registering seven shots on goal.

Head coach Sheldon Keefe has expressed dissatisfaction with Nylander's recent performance and wants to see more consistency from the 27-year-old forward.

The new line configurations place Nylander with Bobby McMann and Sam Lafferty on the third line, while Auston Matthews centers Alexander Kerfoot and Calle Jarnkrok. John Tavares plays alongside Mitch Marner and Michael Bunting.

Keefe believes that playing Nylander with Lafferty and McMann will encourage him to drive the line and be more consistent. Nylander has previously expressed a desire for his coach to push him when his performance falters.

The Maple Leafs are currently battling for second place in the Atlantic Division and home-ice advantage in the first round of the playoffs. They hold a three-point lead over the Tampa Bay Lightning and have two games in hand.

The team aims to maximize their star-studded lineup, and if that means Nylander plays with Lafferty and McMann to regain his form, they are willing to make that change. Nylander remains on the top power play unit, giving him ample opportunity to contribute offensively and potentially return to the top-6.

As seen on Maple Leafs Daily -
Sheldon Keefe says Nylander's recent demotion is about sending a message, needing more from him