Nylander's absence from practice before the first game raised questions about his status. Keefe refrained from providing updates, following a directive from Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving to withhold lineup information.
In Game 1, the Leafs played without Nylander and suffered a 5-1 loss to the Bruins. The following day, Nylander was spotted skating with the team's reserves, while Keefe remained tight-lipped about his status.
Before Game 2, Nylander joined the team for the morning skate, but it was evident he wouldn't be playing, as he didn't participate in line drills. Despite this, the Leafs won 3-2, with Keefe noting Nylander's positive presence on the ice.
Nylander's injury remains undisclosed, as the Leafs maintain secrecy during the playoffs. During the regular season, he played all 82 games, recording career-highs with 40 goals and 58 assists, earning an eight-year, $92 million contract extension effective July 1.