The “Other” Nylander Is Still Fighting for an NHL Return
It’s kind of a nice story when you stop and think about it. One of the Nylander brothers is starring for the Toronto Maple Leafs, especially now with Auston Matthews out of the lineup. The other? He’s a few minutes down the highway, grinding it out with the Toronto Marlies and is putting together a pretty solid season.
Alex might not be the Nylander brother who gets your attention at first.
Alex Nylander might not be the name that jumps off the page the way William Nylander does. Still, Alex is carving out something of his own. In 53 games with the Marlies this season, he’s put up 17 goals and 39 points. That’s the kind of production that keeps you in the conversation, even if the NHL door isn’t wide open anymore.
And here’s where it gets interesting. The word around Alex has always been about consistency—especially on the defensive end of the ice. The skill has never really been the issue. But this season, there’s been a noticeable shift toward a more complete game. More effort defensively. More attention to detail. It’s the kind of thing coaches notice, even if it doesn’t show up right away on the scoresheet.
Both Nylander brothers have a pretty comfortable situation.
There’s also something to be said for comfort. Living in the same city as his brother, being around family, and having some stability matter. Hockey players don’t always talk about that side of things, but it’s real. And for Alex, Toronto might be the first place in a while where everything just fits a little better.
Now, the big question: can he get back to the NHL?
It’s not impossible, but it’s not a sure thing either. At this point, Alex probably sits in that in-between space. He’s a player who’s too good for the AHL to ignore, but is still trying to prove he can stick at the next level. The good news is that players have come back from that spot before. A strong finish, a good camp, maybe the right opportunity, and suddenly you’re back in the mix.
Right now, Alex Nylander is doing what it takes to stay in the conversation.
At the very least, Alex Nylander is doing exactly what he needs to do right now—producing, improving, and staying relevant. And honestly, there’s something pretty good about that life. Playing pro hockey, making a solid living, and doing it in the same city as your brother? Not a bad setup at all. If my research is correct, Alex’s contract with the Marlies likely pays him on the higher end of AHL pay—probably in the $150,000–$250,000 range. But that's an educated guess based on comparable deals for AHL veterans.
The rest? We’ll see. But for now, the “other Nylander” is worth keeping an eye on.