William Nylander may stay on Jim Hiller's right wing as the Maple Leafs search for better balance across their top six.
Toronto's current roster lacks natural right-wing options, making Nylander the cleanest fit on that side entering training camp.
Nylander has spent most of his NHL career on the wing despite his background at centre. His ability to attack off the rush and create from the flank makes the decision easier.
The Maple Leafs could still add another forward before puck drop. Patrick Kane and Vladimir Tarasenko were identified as possible options, while trade speculation continues around other established scorers.
“Looking at everywhere else though, it seems like Nylander on the right is the only move that makes sense. You're not sliding Tavares to the wing, nor are you switching things up for Gavin McKenna or Auston Matthews. Nylander is going to be glued to the right side all year.”
- Charlie McAfee, Hockey Patrol
But Toronto may need to clear cap space before completing another significant move. Until that happens, Hiller must build his lines around the players already available.
Auston Matthews and John Tavares remain established down the middle. Gavin McKenna's arrival also gives Toronto another young centre to evaluate, reducing the need to move Nylander inside.
“The Maple Leafs should probably do something though to target not only a top-six forward but perhaps someone who is more comfortable playing on the right side because right now they don't really have anyone who can.”
- Charlie McAfee, Hockey Patrol
Huge development emerges regarding William Nylander's role with the Leafs
Keeping Nylander at right wing would preserve familiarity in the top six. It would also prevent Hiller from shifting several players away from their preferred positions simply to fill one opening.
Easton Cowan is another right-wing possibility, but placing too much responsibility on a young forward would carry risk. Toronto needs reliable production, not just a name beside Nylander on the depth chart.
Jack Roslovic can move to the right side, though he has also played centre. That flexibility helps, but it doesn't fully solve the shortage of natural options.
The organization could also examine a professional tryout before camp. Toronto has used that route before to add experienced depth without making an immediate financial commitment.
“Patrick Kane, Eeli Tolvanen and Vladimir Tarasenko are all right-wingers who can help balance out the top-nine, with Kane being heavily linked to the Maple Leafs and has still not signed a contract yet for 2026-27.”
- Charlie McAfee, Hockey Patrol
Alexander Nylander offers another internal option, though he isn't currently viewed as the answer for a permanent top-six role. He would need a strong camp to force his way into the discussion.
For now, William Nylander appears set to remain on the right side. That isn't a dramatic reinvention, but it may close the most obvious hole in Hiller's early lineup.
The larger question is who joins him there. Unless management adds another proven winger, Toronto could enter camp with Nylander carrying most of the right-side scoring responsibility.
Source : William Nylander's Maple Leafs position change may now be taking shape
Should the Maple Leafs keep William Nylander at right wing all season?
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