Table of Contents
Calgary, Alberta – In a night that will be etched in his memory, William Nylander scored his second career NHL hat trick, leading the Toronto Maple Leafs to a 6-3 victory over the Calgary Flames. This remarkable achievement came exactly eight years after his first hat trick, and in the same city where his father, Michael Nylander, once played for the Flames.
With this performance, Nylander now has 33 goals this season, trailing only Edmonton’s Leon Draisaitl, who has 37.
Nylander’s special connection to Calgary
For Nylander, this game held a unique significance. “Born here and scoring my second career hat trick eight years after my first one is pretty wild,” he expressed after the game.
His first hat trick was recorded on the road in Boston, but this time, the atmosphere felt like a home game, thanks to the enthusiastic support from Leafs fans who filled the arena with their blue jerseys amidst the usual sea of red.
As Nylander scored his final goal into an empty net, the arena erupted in cheers, and hats rained down onto the ice, a tradition that signifies a player’s hat trick. “We have a huge following, the best fans in the league,” he said, acknowledging the unwavering support from the fans.
“To see those hats come down is special.”
Key moments in the game
Nylander’s performance was not just about scoring; it was about seizing opportunities. His first goal came on a power play, tying the game at 1-1, while his second goal during an odd-man rush extended the Leafs’ lead to 4-2.
“He’s got a lethal shot, we all know that,” said Leafs coach Craig Berube, praising Nylander’s ability to handle the puck and score under pressure. “That last goal was a hard puck battle. Good job by him with the goalie out.
Sealed the game.”
Teammate Bobby McMann, who is in his first full NHL season, noted how much he has learned from Nylander’s shooting technique. “He baits the goalie for a half second. I think it throws the goalie off a little bit,” McMann explained, highlighting the nuances of Nylander’s skill that make him a formidable player on the ice.
The road ahead for the Maple Leafs
As the Maple Leafs continue their season, Nylander’s performance raises expectations. With a career high of 40 goals in the past two seasons, he is on pace to surpass 50 this year. “He capitalized on every opportunity he had,” said teammate Matthew Knies, who also scored in the game. The Leafs managed to secure this victory even without their leading scorer, Mitch Marner, who was sidelined due to a lower-body injury. Coach Berube remains optimistic about Marner’s return, potentially as soon as their next game against the Kraken in Seattle.
Nylander’s hat trick not only showcases his talent but also reinforces the Maple Leafs’ position as a competitive force in the NHL. With the playoffs approaching, performances like this will be crucial for the team’s success.
