Leafs’ Nylander on biggest challenge in potential Game 4 return: 'Nothing'

“The games are crazy to watch from home,” Nylander said. “I’ve never been so nervous in my life, but I think the guys are doing a great job, and tomorrow’s a big game.”

The 27-year-old was asked about any challenges facing him if he returns for Game 4.

“Nothing,” Nylander responded. “Because I’ve been skating and everything. I’m like, ‘Okay, I’m fine.'”

The question arose of what has kept him out of the lineup so far in the series.

“Look, it’s just personal. So, I’m not going to get into that.”

According to TSN’s Mark Masters, Nylander was taking reps on the Leafs’ top power-play unit on Friday.

Head coach Sheldon Keefe was asked about Nylander’s health on Friday and whether or not he will be inserted into the lineup on Saturday.

“Looked great to me on the ice,” Keefe said. “In terms of his status, we’ll have to determine that tomorrow.”

Goaltender Ilya Samsonov was one of many Leafs elated to see Nylander skating with the team on Friday.

“We’re happy to see him with us on the ice,” Samsonov said. He’s getting ready for the next game, I think. I hope so. It’s huge for us.”

The Calgary-born winger played in all 82 regular-season games for the Leafs, tying his career-high in goals (40), while registering the most assists (58) and points (98) he has in a single season.

Nylander had missed just one game since the end of the 2020-21 season prior to these playoffs.