Maple Leafs' Tavares expects RFA Nylander to attend training camp

Toronto Maple Leafs forward John Tavares expects full attendance when training camp opens this week.

Although restricted free-agent winger William Nylander is without a contract for the coming season, Tavares is confident the 22-year-old will be at camp, which opens on Thursday.

"We believe we're going to have Willy (Nylander) here to start camp," Tavares said, according to Sportsnet's Chris Johnston.

Last week, during an interview with TSN's Bob McKenzie, Maple Leafs general manager Kyle Dubas said he wouldn't expect Nylander to be in camp until a contract is signed.

Back in August, Nylander stated he would like to sign a long-term deal with the Maple Leafs. The Swede is coming off his entry-level contract, putting up back-to-back 20-goal, 60-point seasons.