William Andrew Michael Junior Nylander Altelius Bio
William Andrew Michael Junior Nylander Altelius is a Swedish professional ice hockey forward born on May 1, 1996, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. He plays for the Toronto Maple Leafs in the National Hockey League (NHL) and is recognized for his offensive skill and speed. Drafted eighth overall in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft by the Maple Leafs, Nylander has become one of the league’s top forwards, noted for his scoring ability and clutch performances.
Early Life and Background
Nylander was born in Calgary while his father, Michael Nylander, was playing for the Calgary Flames. He holds dual citizenship in Sweden and Canada. Growing up, Nylander spent much of his youth in the United States where his father played for several NHL teams, spending summers in Sweden. His family relocated to Sweden when he was 14 years old, providing him with strong ties to Swedish hockey culture.
He has six siblings, including his younger brother Alexander Nylander, who was also drafted eighth overall in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft and currently plays for the Toronto Maple Leafs. William’s early exposure to professional hockey through his father and family environment helped shape his development in the sport.
Path to Hockey
Nylander began his hockey career playing in youth tournaments such as the 2009 Quebec International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament with the New York Rangers minor team. He made his professional debut in HockeyAllsvenskan in 2013, playing alongside his father with Södertälje SK. He then advanced to the Swedish Hockey League (SHL), where he impressed during his rookie stint with MoDo Hockey in the 2013–14 season.
Ranked as a top prospect for the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, Nylander was selected eighth overall by the Toronto Maple Leafs. His offensive talent and puck-moving skills were highly praised, although his defensive game and smaller stature at the time drew some criticism. His transition from Swedish leagues to North American professional hockey marked a key step in his career progression.
William Nylander Career
Early Career (2013–2015)
Nylander made his professional debut in 2013 with Södertälje SK in HockeyAllsvenskan, earning an assist in his first game. He then played 22 games in the SHL with MoDo Hockey during the 2013–14 season, gaining valuable experience at a high level. In January 2015, he was reassigned to the Toronto Marlies, the Maple Leafs’ American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, where he scored 32 points in 37 games and helped the team reach the Calder Cup playoffs.
His strong performance in the AHL demonstrated his readiness for the NHL, and he was considered a candidate for the SHL Rookie of the Year award before moving to North America. These formative years established Nylander as a promising young talent.
Toronto Maple Leafs Breakthrough (2016–Present)
Nylander made his NHL debut on February 29, 2016, against the Tampa Bay Lightning at age 19. He scored his first NHL goal shortly after, on March 5, 2016, assisted by Brooks Laich. The following season, Nylander secured a full-time roster spot with the Maple Leafs, forming a productive line with Zach Hyman and Auston Matthews. He was named NHL Rookie of the Month in October 2016 after recording 11 points in nine games.
Despite some scoring droughts, Nylander finished his rookie season with 61 points and helped the Maple Leafs reach the 2017 Stanley Cup playoffs. He continued to be a key contributor in subsequent seasons, matching his 61-point total in 2017–18 and overcoming contract disputes to sign a six-year deal in late 2018.
Nylander changed his jersey number to 88 for the 2019–20 season and saw a marked improvement in performance, setting career highs in goals and assists. He maintained elite production through the pandemic-shortened 2020–21 season and beyond, achieving his first 80-point season in 2021–22 and a 40-goal campaign in 2022–23. In January 2024, he signed an eight-year, $92 million contract extension, the largest in Maple Leafs history by total value, and was named to his first NHL All-Star Game.
Driving Style and Strengths
William Nylander is known for his offensive flair, speed, and puck-handling skills. His ability to create scoring opportunities and perform in critical moments distinguishes him as a top forward. Nylander excels on various ice surfaces and has developed strong chemistry with his linemates and coaching staff, enhancing his strategic impact on the game.
Notable Events and Milestones
Nylander has recorded multiple hat-tricks, including his first in February 2017 and a second in February 2025. He set a franchise record for the longest point streak to start a season in 2023 and became the Maple Leafs’ all-time leader in overtime goals in November 2025. Internationally, he was named MVP of the 2017 World Championship, where Sweden won gold.
William Nylander Career Wins
Throughout his career, Nylander has accumulated numerous points and accolades across NHL and international play. His consistent scoring and playmaking have made him a vital player for the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Swedish national team.
Toronto Maple Leafs Highlights
Nylander has been a key offensive contributor for the Maple Leafs since his NHL debut in 2016. He has achieved multiple 40-goal seasons and set franchise records, including the longest point streak to start a season and most overtime goals. His playoff performances have included leading the team in goals and points during multiple postseasons.
Other Wins & Performances
Internationally, Nylander led Sweden to a gold medal at the 2017 World Championship, earning tournament MVP honors. He also led scoring at the 2014 World U18 Championships and was named to the all-star team at the 2019 World Championship. He is slated to represent Sweden at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
William Nylander Family
Family Background and Hockey Lineage
William Nylander comes from a hockey family; his father, Michael Nylander, was a professional NHL player. His younger brother, Alexander Nylander, also plays professionally for the Toronto Maple Leafs. This family background has been influential in William’s development and success in hockey.
Personal Life
Nylander has six siblings and maintains close ties to his family. He has not publicly disclosed marital status or children. In 2025, he launched a personal YouTube channel, expanding his presence beyond the ice.
2025 Season Performance
In the 2024–25 NHL season, Nylander set a new career high with 45 goals, finishing second in league goal scoring, and totaled 84 points. He recorded his second career NHL hat-trick and led the Maple Leafs in playoff goals and points. Despite the team’s elimination in the second round, Nylander’s individual performance earned him the Guldpucken award as Sweden’s top ice hockey player for the first time.
Nylander continues to be a cornerstone for the Maple Leafs, demonstrating leadership and elite skill. His contract extension through 2032 secures his role as a franchise player, and he is expected to maintain his high level of play in upcoming seasons.