Alex Nylander addresses the reality of having to prove himself in Toronto
Alex Nylander signed an AHL deal with the Toronto Marlies last week and has finally addressed having to prove himself before earning an NHL contract with the Leafs.
Dealt to the Columbus Blue Jackets in February of last season, Alex Nylander seemed to have a bit of a career renaissance. He had a strong showing with the Blue Jackets, posting 11 goals and 15 points in 23 games, but it wasn't enough for the Jackets to tender him a qualifying offer, making him a free agent.
Initially, Nylander was hoping to find an NHL deal but revealed to the Toronto Sun's Lance Hornby that after discussions with his dad (Michael Nylander) and brother (William Nylander) that an AHL deal was the best option.
Ready to prove himself, the opportunity to turn his AHL deal into an NHL deal and play with his brother certainly played a role in his decision, as the last time the two played together was the 2016 World Juniors. Unfortunately, that opportunity lasted just one game when William got hurt. Now reunited I'm Toronto, albeit in different situations, Alex is hopeful that he can earn himself that NHL deal and have the chance to play with his brother again.
At 26, two years younger than William, Alex has been putting in a ton of work this off-season to build on a successful end to last season. Often working out with his brother, he is ready to prove he can be a full-time NHLer, he believes he just needs the opportunity.
In 121 career NHL games between the Buffalo Sabres, Chicago Blackhawks, Pittsburgh Penguins and Columbus Blue Jackets, Nylander has registered 25 goals and 49 points.
Source: Hockey DB Alex Nylander Stats
| POLL | ||
6 AOUT | 1055 ANSWERS Alex Nylander addresses the reality of having to prove himself in Toronto Will Alex Nylander get an NHL deal with the Leafs this season? | ||
| Yes | 781 | 74 % |
| No | 274 | 26 % |
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