Photo Credits: David Kirouac-USA TODAY Sports
There are two Nylanders in Toronto. The Toronto Marlies, the Maple Leafs’ AHL affiliate, have signed forward Alex Nylander to a one-year AHL contract.
Alex is the younger brother of Toronto Maple Leafs star forward William Nylander. Last season, Alex split time between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Columbus Blue Jackets, scoring 11 goals and four assists. His success came at the end of the season with Columbus, where he put up 15 points in 23 games.
The Buffalo Sabres selected Nylander eighth overall in 2016. Unfortunately for Alex, his career hasn’t turned out like his brother’s. Alex became a full-time NHL player in the 2019-20 season with the Chicago Blackhawks but missed the playoffs and 2021 season due to a torn meniscus.
Nylander will bring a veteran presence to the Marlies. The 26-year-old has 210 points in 330 AHL games.
If Alex performs well in training camp, he could earn an NHL contract with the Leafs, help give them options for wingers, and play with his brother.
