Bruce Boudreau Praises Maple Leafs’ Nylander and Capitals in NHL ‘Nice List’
Former NHL head coach and current TSN hockey analyst Bruce Boudreau has spotlighted the Toronto Maple Leafs and Washington Capitals on his personal “nice list,” highlighting their standout performances this season.
Boudreau began by applauding Maple Leafs forward William Nylander, who has thrived during the first year of his eight-year, $92 million contract extension. Despite injuries plaguing Toronto’s roster, including first-year captain Auston Matthews, Nylander has been a consistent force.
“You’ve got to start with William Nylander,” Boudreau stated via TSN. “Look at what he’s done for the Leafs. Every time he scores, he smiles—it’s pretty cool. With all the Leafs’ injuries this year, he’s been the bright, shiny light keeping them where they are.”
Nylander has stepped up significantly, recording 23 goals and 17 assists, putting him on pace for a career-high 54 goals this season.
Boudreau also reserved praise for the Washington Capitals, a team he coached earlier in his career. Despite missing their captain, Alex Ovechkin, due to a leg injury, the Capitals have exceeded expectations.
“So, William Nylander is No. 1 for me, but No. 2 on the ‘nice list’ has got to be the Washington Capitals,” Boudreau noted. “They’re doing this without their leading goal scorer back in the lineup. I’ve got to give the Capitals and their staff great kudos for being where they are.”
Ovechkin, who remains just 27 goals shy of breaking Wayne Gretzky’s all-time scoring record, was on pace for another vintage season before his injury. His absence has not derailed the Capitals, who hold a 23-9-2 record and sit second in the Metropolitan Division, just one point behind the New Jersey Devils.
Both the Maple Leafs and Capitals have proven their resilience and depth this season, making them standout stories in the NHL. Fans of both teams will hope these strong performances continue as the season progresses.