It wasn't only Willy's performance on the ice that drew people's attention in Sweden, but his rock star status as well. Nylander was far and away the most popular Swedish player attending the Global Series in Stockholm, but nobody could have prepared us for the reception that Nylander received in his hometown.
Nylander not only had to buy approximately 180 tickets combined for the pair of games in Stockholm for his family and friends, but he was swarmed by fans even before and after Leaf practices, taking part in a number of photo ops and signing autographs for the kids in attendance. His media sessions were well-attended and he even had the opportunity to appear on a Swedish talk show on the trip.
Fellow Swedes Calle Jarnkrok and John Klingberg attended the talk show with Nylander and sat in the crowd for the program, but Jarnkrok was shocked at Nylander's chosen attire for the occasion. Despite being very interested in fashion, Nylander opted to wear a tank top on the show, which Jarnkrok and Klingberg found hilarious.
Leaf fans know that Nylander definitely marches to the beat of his own drum. He's a unique person and a unique player. It was fun to see him in his element during the trip to Sweden. While we already know he's a star in Toronto, it was eye-opening to see just how big of a superstar he is back home in Sweden.
POLL | ||
22 NOVEMBRE | 302 ANSWERS William Nylander's wardrobe choice for a talk show appearance during Sweden trip cracked his teammates up William Nylander is currently on pace for 57 goals. Do you think he surpasses the 50-goal plateau this year? | ||
Yes | 209 | 69.2 % |
No | 93 | 30.8 % |
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