JUST IN:Maple Leafs Identified as Best Fit for William Nylander’s Brother
The NHL free agency’s peak spending period has passed, with most of the high-profile players now signed. However, this doesn’t mean that all teams, including the Toronto Maple Leafs, have addressed every roster need.
According to hockey analyst Josh Wegman from The Score, “there are still a handful of potential hidden gems available.” One of these “hidden gems,” in Wegman’s opinion, is Alexander Nylander of the Columbus Blue Jackets.
“It was somewhat surprising that the Columbus Blue Jackets chose not to tender an $814,000 qualifying offer to retain Nylander after his strong finish to the 2023–24 campaign,” Wegman wrote. “Nylander will likely secure only a one-year deal for under $1 million. This is great news for the Maple Leafs, who are nearly at the salary cap but could use more competition for a middle-six winger spot. The potential for him to play on a line with his brother, William, is intriguing for everyone involved.”
Nylander recently completed a one-year, $775,000 contract. He originally signed with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2023 but was traded to Columbus. The Blue Jackets acquired Nylander from the Penguins on February 23.
Alexander, who turned 26 in March, is two years younger than his brother William of the Maple Leafs. In 2024, he scored 11 goals and provided 4 assists in 23 games with the Blue Jackets after going pointless in five games with Pittsburgh.
