Maple Leafs William Nylander Confirms That He's Struggling With His Current Situation

Despite playing in just 9 of the Toronto Maple Leafs' 12 games this season, William Nylander still sits second in team scoring with 15 points, just one back of the team's points leader, John Tavares.

Nylander has now missed 3 of the last 4 games after suffering an injury against the Buffalo Sabres in late October, and while he did make it into the lineup for the team's October 28th meeting with the Calgary Flames and has taken part in several pre-game warmups, it's clear that he's not at 100% right now.

Nylander spoke with the media this weekend, confirming that his hands are tied right now, despite his clear desire to get back into the lineup as soon as possible. His comments could also indicate that some more time off is in his immediate future.

The Leafs are back above .500, having pushed their record to 6-5-1, but with how much they've struggled to score this season, the last thing they need is a continued William Nylander absence.

The team is also marred by injury at the moment, with Scott Laughton still sidelined, and with Chris Tanev also going down with what appears to be his second head injury in as many weeks -- though that is unconfirmed.

It's not all bad news for the Nylander family, asbaby brother Alex Nylander is off to a red hot start with the Marlies this season, tied for the lead in team scoring with 9 points in 7 games.

The Leafs are back at home for a 4-game homestand, which begins tonight against former GM Kyle Dubas the red hot Pittsburgh Penguins. The hope is that Nylander can continue to make progress towards a return sooner rather than later.