Alexander Nylander Bio
Alexander Maximilian Michael Junior Nylander Altelius, commonly known as Alexander Nylander, is a Swedish professional ice hockey forward for the Toronto Marlies of the American Hockey League (AHL). He was selected eighth overall by the Buffalo Sabres in the 2016 NHL entry draft. Born on March 2, 1998, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, Nylander has represented Sweden in international competitions despite his Canadian birthplace. He is also the brother of William Nylander, who plays for the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Early Life and Background
Alexander Nylander was born in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, while his father, Michael Nylander, played in the NHL for the Calgary Flames. Growing up in a hockey-centric environment, Nylander was exposed to the sport from an early age. His family moved frequently due to his father’s career, which allowed him to experience various styles of hockey. Nylander spent significant time in the United States and summers in Sweden, where he developed a strong connection to his Swedish heritage.
Path to Hockey
Nylander’s journey in hockey began when he was selected 12th overall by the Mississauga Steelheads of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) at the 2015 Canadian Hockey League Import Draft. He committed to the Steelheads on September 5, 2015, with his father joining as an assistant coach. Nylander’s decision was influenced by his desire to be close to his brother William and to play a Canadian style of hockey. In his only season with the Steelheads, he led all rookies in scoring, earning both the Emms Family Award as OHL Rookie of the Year and the CHL Rookie of the Year.
Alexander Nylander Career
Early Career (2016-2019)
Alexander Nylander was drafted eighth overall by the Buffalo Sabres in the 2016 NHL entry draft. He signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Sabres on July 15, 2016. Nylander made his NHL debut on April 3, 2017, against the Toronto Maple Leafs, playing 14:28 minutes in the game. However, after four games, he was reassigned to the Rochester Americans, the Sabres’ AHL affiliate. Nylander faced challenges early in his career, including a lower-body injury that sidelined him for part of the 2017-18 AHL season. He made a successful return, recording his first NHL goal on April 6, 2018, against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Breakthrough (2019-2021)
On July 9, 2019, Nylander was traded to the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for Henri Jokiharju. He opted to wear number 92, the same number his father wore during his NHL career. During the 2019-20 season, Nylander played 65 games, recording 10 goals and 16 assists. However, he faced setbacks due to a knee injury that caused him to miss the entire 2020-21 season. After re-signing with the Blackhawks on a one-year contract in August 2021, he began the 2021-22 season on injured reserve, missing the first half of the season.
Notable Works and Milestones
Nylander’s career has been marked by significant milestones, including his first NHL goal and his trade to the Chicago Blackhawks. He has shown resilience in overcoming injuries and has continued to develop as a player in the NHL.
Alexander Nylander Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Alexander Nylander has received recognition for his achievements, particularly during his junior career, where he earned awards for his outstanding performance.
Alexander Nylander Awards Won
Alexander Nylander has won several awards, including the Emms Family Award as OHL Rookie of the Year and the CHL Rookie of the Year during his time with the Mississauga Steelheads.
Alexander Nylander Family
Alexander Nylander is the son of Michael Nylander, a former NHL player. He has an older brother, William Nylander, who also plays in the NHL for the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Nylander family has a strong hockey legacy, with both brothers achieving success in professional hockey.
Personal Life
Alexander Nylander was born in Canada but has represented Sweden internationally. He spent much of his youth in the United States, where his father played for various NHL teams. Despite the challenges of moving frequently, Nylander has maintained a close relationship with his family and continues to pursue his hockey career.