Alex Nylander on signing with the Leafs organization, what it means to him, and his mindset going forward:
“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,” he said. “But 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.”
J.D. Forrest, who coached Pittsburgh’s farm team at Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, described Alex to the local Tribune-Review as having “loads of talent, offensively gifted (but) just kind of needs to round out his game. He can certainly do some things not everyone can.”
Many were shocked Alex didn’t get a qualifying offer from new Jackets’ general manager Don Waddell after his strong spring, three multi-goal games, including a hat trick, the fastest in club history.
While there’s no sure pathway back to the NHL through the Marlies, the team has often taken advantage of veterans wishing to restart their careers in the Leaf orbit. Last year, another former 2016 first round pick, Kieffer Bellows, signed with the Marlies, came close to 30 goals and earned a two-way deal with Nashville this season.
Alex will likely be practising with the Leafs veteran and prospects in Toronto in the coming weeks.
