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"Bonehead play by No. 89": Ex-NHLer Jordan Schmaltz weighs in on Nick Robertson's stick tug that caused William Nylander's head collision
Ex-NHLer Jordan Schmaltz commented on Nick Robertson's stick tug that caused William Nylander's head collision against the Montreal Canadiens. Late in the first period, Robertson pushed Nylander from behind, which made Nylander lose his balance and hit Christian Dvorak’s knee.
Schmaltz shared his views on X (formerly Twitter). He noted that while the “slingshot” technique can work in some cases, it was not needed in the aforementioned instance. Dvorak didn’t have the puck, and it was just preseason. Schmaltz called it a “bonehead play” by Nick Robertson and hopes Nylander would recover quickly.
"I mean I get the idea Robertson is trying to do here. We call it the “slingshot” ... When you press on the back of your teammates pants with your twig to help them catch the opposing player normally on an odd man rush or breakaway.
"It really works as a slingshot. However, in this instance in no case is that maneuver needed NOR necessary. #1 Dvorak doesn’t even have the puck. #2 it’s pre season. Bonehead play by number 89. Let’s just hope Willy Styles is okay," Schmaltz wrote on X.
The Maple Leafs kept Nylander out for the rest of the game as a precaution. Nylander’s injury scare aside, the Maple Leafs had several players who showed promise, and the game was an important step in their preseason development.
Nick Robertson shines as Maple Leafs secure first preseason win amid injury concerns
Despite Nylander's injury, Toronto won its first preseason game, thanks to a goal from Nick Robertson in the second period. After a rough start, Robertson bounced back.
He stripped Arber Xhekaj of the puck, assisted Bobby McMann on a 2-on-1 and scored on a breakaway. His performance could be important as he seeks a spot on the Maple Leafs' roster.
Easton Cowan also stood out while playing with Mitch Marner and Max Domi. He had strong scoring chances and showed good skills. Although Cowan was sometimes careful with the puck, he created opportunities, reflecting his success in the OHL.
The fourth line, featuring Steven Lorentz, David Kampf and Ryan Reaves, demonstrated good teamwork. Their physical play created scoring chances and turnovers. Lorentz was active on offense and strong on defense, especially in the game's final moments.
In goal, Anthony Stolarz remained calm, allowing just one goal on 10 shots before leaving after the second period. His positioning and composure helped the Maple Leafs. Matt Murray came in during the third period and made seven saves to help secure the win.
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