William Nylander is a Swedish professional ice hockey forward currently playing for the Toronto Maple Leafs in the National Hockey League.
Born on May 1, 1996, in Calgary, Alberta, while his father was playing for the Calgary Flames, he holds dual Canadian-Swedish citizenship and is widely known for his exceptional skill, speed, creativity, and offensive flair.
Nylander was selected eighth overall by the Maple Leafs in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft and has developed into one of the league’s most dynamic playmakers and scorers over his career.
Siblings
William has five siblings in total, making him part of a close-knit group that has followed the game closely.
His younger brother Alexander Nylander, born in 1998, was also drafted eighth overall in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft by the Buffalo Sabres and has played in the NHL, including stints that led to him joining the Toronto Maple Leafs organization alongside William.
The two brothers have shared the ice as teammates for the Maple Leafs, creating memorable family moments for fans and the Nylander clan.
William also has an older sister named Michelle and three younger sisters: Jacqueline, Stephanie, and Daniella (sometimes referred to in family contexts as including Ella).
The siblings grew up moving across North America due to their father’s NHL career before the family settled more permanently in Sweden when William was around 14 years old.
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Career
Nylander’s hockey journey began in North America, where he split time between various cities as his father played in the NHL, before the family returned to Sweden.
He developed his skills in Swedish junior systems and made his professional debut in the HockeyAllsvenskan alongside his father with Södertälje SK.
After being drafted by Toronto, he spent time with the Maple Leafs’ AHL affiliate, the Toronto Marlies, before becoming a full-time NHL player.
Nylander made his NHL debut in the 2015-16 season and quickly established himself as a key offensive contributor for the rebuilding Maple Leafs.
He has spent his entire NHL career with Toronto, evolving from a promising young talent into a cornerstone forward.
Known for his slick hands, vision, and ability to produce in clutch situations, he has recorded multiple 80-plus point seasons and become a consistent point-per-game threat.
In the 2023-24 season, he enjoyed a breakout campaign with 95 points, and he continued producing at a high level into the 2025-26 season despite occasional injuries.
Off the ice, Nylander signed a long-term eight-year contract extension with the Maple Leafs worth $92 million in 2024, solidifying his future in Toronto.
Accolades
In the NHL, Nylander has earned selections to the All-Star Game and has consistently ranked among the league’s top scorers in recent seasons.
He has set franchise records for the Maple Leafs, including becoming the all-time leader in overtime goals.
His junior and early professional development included strong performances leading up to his draft.
On the international stage, Nylander has been particularly decorated while representing Sweden.
He won gold at the 2017 IIHF World Championship and was named the tournament’s most valuable player.
He has also earned World Championship All-Star Team honors and recognition as one of Sweden’s top players in multiple tournaments.
Additionally, he has participated in events such as the 4 Nations Face-Off and was selected for Sweden’s roster at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
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