Willy’s world: Nylander embraces Toronto’s spotlight and leadership role as Marner exits for Vegas
Two NHL stars reveal starkly different attitudes toward the pressures of life in Toronto, a city that adores its hockey heroes. Mitch Marner, the former Maple Leafs standout, famously shunned social media after enduring relentless harassment from fans. In contrast, current Leafs winger William Nylander is diving into the digital world, embracing the interactions that Marner sought to avoid.
Marner, who grew up in the Toronto area, realized his dream of joining the Maple Leafs but faced significant challenges beyond the ice. The No. 4 overall pick in the 2015 NHL Draft found himself the target of online vitriol, requiring security measures to protect his family and home. This summer marked the end of Marner’s nine-year journey with the Maple Leafs, as he was traded to the Vegas Golden Knights in a sign-and-trade deal. Reflecting on the move, Marner stated, “We just decided it was time for a new chapter. We loved being in Toronto full time and being close to family and friends, but we just thought it was time for a new chapter in life.”
A New Era for Nylander
In the wake of Marner’s departure, Nylander, the 29-year-old winger selected eighth overall in the 2014 draft, has stepped into the limelight with renewed vigor. Rather than retreating from the pressures of playing in Toronto—a city known for its intense hockey fervor—Nylander has chosen to embrace it. He acknowledges that navigating the media landscape is “not an easy battle,” but he relishes the passion of the fan base that surrounds him.
This week, Nylander took a bold step by launching his own YouTube channel, @williamnylander. In an engaging 30-second trailer posted on the platform, he offered fans a glimpse into his life beyond the rink, showcasing moments that reveal the man behind the athlete. “I decided to start a YouTube channel so you guys could follow me around, and see what my life is like,” he explained in the video. Within just one day, the channel accumulated nearly 11,000 subscribers. While some viewers reacted with skepticism, many fans welcomed Nylander’s initiative. One Reddit commenter noted, “People will joke about this because Leafs, but he’s a super likable, charming dude. This will bring new fans and is a good thing!” Another chimed in, praising Nylander’s authenticity: “Willy is legit built for Toronto. The guy takes the TTC, walks his dogs around his neighborhood, and plays tennis on public courts. He’s a gem.”
A Leadership Transition
With Marner now a part of the Golden Knights, the Maple Leafs find themselves in a transitional phase that goes beyond on-ice performance. Marner consistently surpassed the 100-point mark, serving as a creative engine for the team, but his exit also creates a significant leadership void. Head coach Craig Berube has indicated that he expects Nylander to step up in this regard, both in terms of scoring and taking on a more prominent leadership role. “We need him to score goals and we need him to do the things that he does with his skill,” Berube stated. “For me … I think he can take a bigger step in a leadership role.”
Nylander’s new YouTube venture and his increased public presence may signal more than just a savvy media move; they represent a player ready to embrace a broader role within the organization. If Nylander can balance his production with a growing sense of accountability and personality, the Leafs could emerge stronger, more cohesive, and more dangerous this season.
The contrast between Marner’s retreat from public life and Nylander’s willingness to engage is striking. As the Maple Leafs turn the page, Nylander stands at the forefront of this new narrative, embodying the spirit of Toronto hockey in ways that resonate with fans both on and off the ice.
