William Nylander injury update: Insider shares optimism around Leafs star's return

Toronto Maple Leafs forward William Nylander was a full participant in practice, fueling the possibility of a return for Game 4 against the Boston Bruins.

According to Maple Leafs insider David Alter, Nylander took reps on the team's top power-play unit during workouts.

"Nylander taking reps on PP1 which is a positive sign," Alter wrote on X.

Nylander missed the first three games of the Leafs' first-round series against Boston with what was described as an undisclosed injury.

Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman later provided details on Nylander's situation. stating that he had been dealing with a severe migraine and had been tested for a potential concussion.

Although Nylander's production dipped leading up to the playoffs with just four assists in his final 11 regular season games, his scoring punch would provide a major boost to a Leafs offense that has managed just six goals through three games against the Bruins.

Toronto Maple Leafs coach Sheldon Keefe optimistic about William Nylander’s return

Coach Sheldon Keefe said he would decide on Nylander's status on Saturday, with indications that he will likely be cleared to play.

"The more time the better," Keefe told reporters on Thursday. "We’ve been working with Willy to give him the time that he needs to be ready to play."

Nylander participated in Wednesday's morning skate and took line rushes with Calle Jarnkrok and Pontus Holmberg. However, he remained on the ice late with projected scratches and did not play in Game 3.

Ilya Lyubushkin is currently en route from California to Toronto and should be ready to participate in the game. It is expected that T. J. Brodie will make his series debut. Furthermore, Auston Matthews is gradually recovering following his illness and could be close to full fitness.