The Toronto Maple Leafs are no strangers to high expectations and the constant pressure of a championship window that never quite seems to close. However, one particular player is starting to attract attention—not for his skill on the ice, but for the headaches he’s causing off of it. With a $76 million contract hanging around his neck, the question on every Leafs fan’s mind is whether this player is worth the pain or if it’s time for the team to make a major change.

That player? William Nylander. After an off-season that saw the 27-year-old forward secure a hefty six-year, $76 million deal, expectations were high for Nylander to continue his offensive production and be a key piece in the Leafs’ playoff aspirations. But despite flashes of brilliance, his consistency has come under scrutiny, with some observers questioning whether he’s living up to the money he’s making.

While Nylander remains one of Toronto’s most talented forwards, his occasional struggles—especially in high-pressure moments—have led to growing frustration among fans and management alike. Some believe his play has been too inconsistent to justify the massive contract, while others point to his lack of a true “clutch” factor in the postseason.

The Leafs’ management could now face a tough decision: Should they trade Nylander while his market value remains high, potentially securing assets that could shore up other areas of the roster? Or should they ride out his contract, hoping that the occasional brilliance will eventually translate into consistent, game-changing performances?

With the Leafs’ championship window wide open, every decision feels magnified. Whether Nylander’s future is in Toronto or elsewhere, the Maple Leafs’ front office will need to act quickly, because when it comes to winning in the NHL, there’s no time to waste.