The Toronto Maple Leafs announced on Friday that they have signed forward Alex Nylander to a one-year contract with an AAV of $775,000.
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In a corresponding move to fit in his contract, the Leafs also announced that they had placed forward Matthew Knies on injured reserve. He was already ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Utah Hockey Club due to an upper-body injury he suffered on Wednesday against the Vegas Golden Knights. It was retroactive to the date of the injury meaning the earliest Knies is eligible to return is next week when they face the Florida Panthers.
Nylander had previously joined the organization earlier this summer via an AHL contract with the Toronto Marlies. He has quickly emerged as one of their leading point scorers with 12 points (eight goals and four assists) through the first 14 games of the season. His strong play combined with the mounting injuries and some of the remaining options in the bottom six not producing has opened an opportunity for Nylander.
While he took an unconventional path to join the Leafs’ roster, he accomplished his goal of working his way back to the NHL through an AHL deal and now has the chance to fulfill his dream of sharing a line with his older brother, William.
“It was best to go here, they really care about the development of players and they can make me a better player,” Nylander told media back at training camp on why he signed with the Marlies first. “If I get the chance to get that NHL contract it will be really good for me.”
“Obviously he was a big influence,” he added on how much of a factor William played in his decision. “My dad and my agent talked to me a lot over the summer, we thought this was the best option for me and my career, so we’re feeling really good and I’m really happy about it.”
With a proper NHL deal secured, Nylander will now have to pass through waivers if the Leafs choose to send him back to the Marlies. It is unclear how long his stay with the Leafs will be but he has the talent to make an impact as was evident last season during his brief stint with the Columbus Blue Jackets. Getting a chance to be on the same team as his older brother will add fuel to his fire to remain with the team long-term.
Back at training camp, Nylander stressed his desire to improve his two-way game and be more consistent while trying to stay present in the moment. It’s safe to say he was able to do exactly that and his hard work has paid off as he has earned his chance to get back into the NHL for good.
“When that time comes, I’ll have to prove myself,” he said back in August in preparing for the moment he signs an NHL deal. “The injury and all that is in the past. I’m more determined than ever. I’m ready for this.”
