Elliotte Friedman dissects Maple Leafs' 'unusual' dynamic involving William Nylander and Craig Berube

NHL insider Elliotte Friedman shared an interesting view on the relationship between William Nylander and coach Craig Berube. In Wednesday's game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, which the Leafs won 2-1 in overtime, Berube and Nylander were spotted having some discussion, which looked more like an argument.

Speaking on Friday’s episode of the 32 Thoughts podcast, Friedman said the dynamic between them is unusual but not negative.

"When I watch Berube and Nylander, my feeling would be, if I was in the middle of that, I would be okay with it, as long A, we both had the best interest of the team," Friedman said. [41:00 onwards] "Number two, I would be expected to take it, but so would the other person."

Friedman added that each person appears willing to listen and accept criticism. He believes this creates a workable balance even if the approach looks intense from the outside.

"This is unusual," Friedman said. "This is a lot. And I think it's really fascinating, because Nylander - in the middle of a really horrible start for Toronto - Nylander has delivered. He's been their best player."

The Leafs have struggled in many areas, but William Nylander continues to produce at a high level. His strong play has helped keep the team competitive. Friedman wondered if Berube pushes Nylander harder because he knows the star winger can handle it.

"There are a lot of players who haven't been very good," Friedman said. "He's been really good. You could make a real argument that he's kept them afloat. And part of me wonders if Berube is going after him, because he knows that this is his best player, and he feels he can take it."

He also pointed out that former coach Sheldon Keefe pushed William Nylander the same way when they were together in the AHL and NHL.

Nylander’s personality also plays a role in this dynamic. He is skilled, hardworking, and in great shape, but he can appear relaxed in a way that frustrates coaches.

"I think Nylander is a really interesting guy, because, like I said, he's played hard this year," Friedman said. "He's tremendously skilled. He keeps himself in great shape, but I know at times, his laissez-faire attitude drives them crazy."

Some around the team have joked that he is often late and gives off a calm attitude that can be misunderstood.

"He gives off the 'I don't really care' vibe," Friedman said.

Friedman also added that the organization has supported Nylander many times over the years.

William Nylander's offensive play is driving Maple Leafs

This season, William Nylander has 31 points in 20 games and remains a key part of Toronto’s offense. He is producing in almost every situation and has scored several important goals. In November alone, he has scored 8 goals, and in his last four games, he has scored two game-winning goals.

William Nylander's playmaking and skating continue to drive the team’s attack. Toronto needs his consistency as they sit at 10-10-3. The Maple Leafs allow too many goals and struggle on the power play, so steady performances from players like Nylander are important if they hope to climb the standings.