Player Spotlight
William Nylander
Toronto Maple Leafs — Right Wing
Background & Bio
Full name: William Andrew Michael Junior Nylander
Born: May 1, 1996 — Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Junior: Södertälje SK, Modo Hockey (Sweden, SHL)
Drafted: 8th overall, 2014 NHL Draft by the Toronto Maple Leafs
NHL Debut: February 29, 2016
Career Highlights
- 2017 IIHF World Championship gold medal with Sweden and named tournament MVP.
- 40-goal, 98-point season in 2023–24, setting career highs.
- Maple Leafs franchise record 17-game point streak to start the 2023–24 season (12 G, 15 A, 27 P).
2024–25 Season Snapshot
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Goals | 2 |
| Assists | 9 |
| Points | 11 |
| +/− | +2 |
| Career G/A/P | 264 / 359 / 623 |
| Games Played (Career) | 691 |
Strengths & Role
Nylander’s elite shooting, speed, and playmaking make him a key offensive driver for the Maple Leafs. Often paired with top centers like Auston Matthews or John Tavares, he excels in creating high-danger chances and delivering in clutch moments. His consistency has cemented him as a cornerstone of Toronto’s forward group.
Fun Facts & Moments
Holds the Maple Leafs record for the longest point streak to start a season (17 games in 2023–24).
Son of former NHL player Michael Nylander; the two once played together in Sweden.
Earned MVP honors at the 2017 World Championship with Team Sweden.
“William Nylander is the heartbeat of our offense — a sniper with vision who elevates everyone around him.
In a city that demands excellence, he delivers it night after night.”