Future Watch: William Nylander Rookie Hockey Cards, LeafsFuture Watch: William Nylander Rookie Hockey Cards, LeafsWilliam Nylander is one of the top two prospects in the Toronto Maple Leafs system. 2016 first overall pick, Auston Matthews is the obviously the first and Nylander, who was drafted 8th overall in 2014 is next on the list.

As we head into the 2016-17 season the talented Swede came off a very successful season with the Toronto Marlies of the AHL. He managed 45 points in 38 games. He did finish out the season in Toronto getting 22 games experience scoring six goals and 13 points.

When the Leafs season was over he played deep into the playoffs with the Marlies, scoring seven goals and getting 11 points in 14 games. If you count his one game in the World Junior Championship (he got a concussion and never returned in the tournament) he played in over 70 games.

He can play forward on the wing or center. He’s expected to go deep into training camp and the preseason to see if he can make the Leafs squad. At 5′-11″, 190lbs the question will be is he strong enough to play up the middle? That’s the likely position that coach, Mike Babcock will want to place him in so his summer training program will tell the story.

If he starts the season in the AHL it won’t be due to a lack of talent. At 20 he’s very close, but the Leafs, who aren’t expected to be a playoff contender this season, will most likely not rush one of their best prospects.

William’s father, Michael, had a long and prosperous NHL career. His measurables are the same but the league has changed a lot since he broke in around the same age.

William Nylander’s NHL licensed rookie cards will be found in 2016-17 Upper Deck Hockey products. Currently, 2016-17 Upper Deck MVP Hockey is the only release of the new season to date.

Nylander’s base rookie card in MVP Hockey is card# 238 and is a short-print.

A tentative schedule of other 2016-17 hockey card releases from Upper Deck are as follows:

William Nylander NHL Player Profile

Future Watch: William Nylander Rookie Hockey Cards, Leafs – Image Gallery

Russ Cohen

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