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Alex Nylander addresses the reality of having to prove himself in Toronto
Photo credit: David Kirouac-USA TODAY Sports
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.
"We all had a lot of talk before free agency. (Michael and William) were both in the conversation and Leafs management was really good. We all thought it would be the best to get the (AHL) contract, turn that around, build on last year. It was important I'd shown with the Blue Jackets what I can really do and strive to get even better."
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.
"To be with him on the Leafs would be amazing, a dream come true. I've watched him and the Leafs play a lot over the years and know a lot of what they do. I can't wait for that chance to come."
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.
"I know I have to prove myself first. It's been a long wait to get back on the ice. I hope to come to Toronto in early September to join the summer skates prior to the main training camp. When that time comes, I'll have to prove myself. The injury and all that is in the past. I'm more determined than ever. I'm ready for this. I can bring the scoring, but I want to be more consistent day in, day out, move my feet more. Keep those offensive instincts, but be a better two-way player."
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
Alex Nylander Stats
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AOUT 6 | 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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