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WN
Ice Hockey Biography

William Nylander

“Nylander”

Swedish flag Swedish · Winnipeg, Canada · Born 1 May 1996

Right Wing

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William Nylander is a Swedish forward for the Toronto Maple Leafs known for his speed and offensive skill.

The son of former NHLer Michael Nylander, William Nylander was selected eighth overall by the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2014 and developed into one of the franchise's highest-scoring wingers, his flair earning him the nickname 'Willy Styles' among a fanbase that has watched him become one of the team's most important players. The Toronto Maple Leafs selected Nylander eighth overall in the 2014 NHL Draft, and he developed into one of the franchise's most skilled and dynamic offensive players, nicknamed "Willy Styles" for his flair and speed. Nylander became one of the highest-scoring wingers in Maple Leafs history, forming a formidable top-six alongside Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner, and signed a lucrative long-term contract extension reflecting his standing as one of the team's most important players. Nylander has continued to represent Sweden internationally, and his younger brother, Alexander, also plays professionally in North America, continuing the family's hockey legacy that began with their father's own lengthy NHL career.

Famous For

Toronto Maple Leafs top scoring winger

Playing Style

How They Played

Nylander is known for his exceptional speed and smooth skating ability, allowing him to create separation from defenders and generate scoring chances. He possesses strong puck-handling skills and vision, making him effective both as a goal scorer and playmaker. His versatility allows him to play multiple forward positions and contribute on both even strength and power play situations.

Legacy

Lasting Impact

One of the most skilled Swedish forwards of his generation, known for his clutch performances and offensive consistency

Honours & Achievements

Career Honours

  • NHL All-Star 3x
  • World Junior Championship Gold (Sweden) 2014
  • Toronto Maple Leafs franchise scoring records
Team Career
Team Period GP Goals Jersey
Toronto Maple Leafs2016–202454236#88
Modo Hockey2013–2014227—
Södertälje SK2012–2013———
Mississauga Steelheads2014–201612261—
Swedish flag Sweden—458—
Career Journey

Timeline

2013 🎯 Began junior career with Södertälje SK
2014 🏆 World Junior Championship Gold with Sweden
2014 🎯 Joined Mississauga Steelheads in OHL
2015 📌 NHL Draft - 8th overall pick by Toronto Maple Leafs
2015 🎯 Selected 8th overall by Toronto Maple Leafs
2016 🌍 Made NHL debut with Toronto Maple Leafs
2016 🎯 NHL debut with Toronto Maple Leafs
2018 🎯 First NHL 60-point season (61 points in 82 games)
2019 🎯 Signed 6-year contract extension with Toronto Maple Leafs
2019 🎯 Signed 6-year contract extension
2020 🎯 First NHL 30-goal season (31 goals in 68 games)
2020 🎯 First NHL 30-goal season
2022 🎯 Career-high 80 points in single NHL season
2022 ⚡ Career-high 80 points in single season
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

3 common questions about William Nylander

William Nylander played as a Right Wing.

William Nylander's career honours include NHL All-Star 3x, World Junior Championship Gold (Sweden) 2014, Toronto Maple Leafs franchise scoring records.

William Nylander recorded 300 career goals, 380 assists, 680 points.