The Toronto Maple Leafs shared an injury update on William Nylander ahead of Saturday’s game against the Edmonton Oilers.

Team PR confirmed Nylander did not take part in the morning skate due to illness. Forward Dakota Joshua also missed practice for the same reason. Both players remain day to day, and Toronto will decide the final step closer to game time.

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In a post on X, Leafs PR wrote,

“Maple Leafs forwards Dakota Joshua (illness) and William Nylander (illness) will not take part in today’s morning skate.”

Nylander broke a four-game scoreless stretch Thursday with two assists. The 29-year-old has been one of Toronto’s most productive forwards. He has 11 goals and 23 assists in 26 games this season. His availability will shape Toronto’s top six and power play usage.

Joshua also missed the morning skate and has five goals and four assists in 29 games. His role has brought energy and depth to the lineup.

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With two forwards sick, the Leafs may be dealing with a flu issue in the room. That has forced the coaching staff to prepare backup options.

Toronto Maple Leafs forward William Nylander (88) and forward Auston Matthews (34) at Scotiabank Arena.John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

Toronto Maple Leafs forward William Nylander (88) and forward Auston Matthews (34) at Scotiabank Arena.John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

Toronto enters the matchup at 14-11-5, sitting fifth in the Atlantic Division. Scoring has carried much of the load so far. The Leafs average 3.30 goals per game, with Nylander driving offense and John Tavares finishing chances. Defense and special teams remain concerns. Toronto allows over three goals per game, and the power play sits near the bottom.

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Edmonton visits Toronto with a matching 14-11-6 record. The Oilers average 3.3 goals per game and feature strong top-end talent. Connor McDavid leads the charge with 48 points, while Zach Hyman comes off a hat trick win over the Detroit Red Wings. The game marks the first meeting between the teams this season.

Toronto has played well recently, going 5-2-3 in its last 10. Home results have been mixed, though. Nylander’s status could tilt the matchup either way. His presence would give the Leafs a needed edge against a dangerous Oilers lineup.

Related: Auston Matthews’ Goal Scoring Gets Questioned in Mitch Marner’s Absence

Related: Maple Leafs Coach Craig Berube Responds to William Nylander Move

This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Dec 13, 2025, where it first appeared in the NHL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.