Nylander isn’t the traditional net front guy we’re accustomed to. It isn’t to say he isn’t getting work done but he’s not some hard to move big body that actively obscures goaltenders’ view or tip point shots. And he doesn’t have to be. Just like how basketball strategy has moved centers away from under the room to provide better floor spacing, the Leafs are also running a non-traditional power play like many other teams. Point shots are rarely used but instead the focus is on puck movement, especially from the half boards to the slot. From what my eye test is seeing, Willy cleans up the organized chaos both Matthews and Tavares cause. And he’s real good at it. The constant movement seems to be helpful in providing alternatives to the puck carrier and Willy does have the sense to skate by the goalie’s line of sight when the situation calls for it.
Given the respect Matthews gets, one strategy might see the leafs play a guy like Nylander or Spezza on the opposite wall to compensate for their relatively slower but lethal shots. This could open up the bumper play and the middle of the slot, which was something the Blue Jackets were doing in their series (and something teams do in a panic).