Nylander's new deal will stand at an impressive $11.5 million per season, making him the highest-paid Swede in the NHL alongside Erik Karlsson of the Pittsburgh Penguins. Nylander took a gamble by starting the season without a new contract, and it has proven to be a lucrative move. The 27-year-old forward is enjoying a career-best season, tallying 21 goals and 33 assists for a total of 54 points in just 37 games. He is on track for a remarkable 120 point season.
However, the Maple Leafs commitment to their top forwards Nylander, Tavares, Matthews and Marner raises questions about the team's cap space management and the long-term implications of these substantial contracts. Only time will reveal the impact of this deal on the Maple Leafs overall financial strategy.