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Buffalo Sabres: Alexander Nylander Gets His Chance

By Paul Taylor

Jun 24, 2016; Buffalo, NY, USA; Alexander Nylander is congratulated in the stands after being selected as the number eight overall draft pick by the Buffalo Sabres in the first round of the 2016 NHL Draft at the First Niagra Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 24, 2016; Buffalo, NY, USA; Alexander Nylander is congratulated in the stands after being selected as the number eight overall draft pick by the Buffalo Sabres in the first round of the 2016 NHL Draft at the First Niagra Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports /
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Alexander Nylander has been recalled by the Buffalo Sabres and will make his NHL debut against his brother and the Toronto Maple Leafs on Monday night.

The moment has finally arrived for Alexander Nylander to show his stuff at the NHL level. As reported by John Vogl of The Buffalo News, the youngster has been recalled by the Buffalo Sabres.

As a result, Nylander is set to make his Sabres’ debut on Monday night, against the Toronto Maple Leafs. And in a delightful twist, this means he will be facing his brother William Nylander, who has just been named NHL Rookie of the Month for March.

In some respects, it could be argued the 19-year old hasn’t really done enough to earn his recall to Buffalo. His season with Rochester has not been as productive as anticipated, as evidenced by just 27 points (nine goals and 18 assists) in 62 games for the Amerks.

Regardless, it’s not surprising that Nylander will get an opportunity at this stage of the season. The Sabres are out of the playoff hunt, thus providing the ideal opportunity to give him a taste of NHL action.

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Hopes are high for the Calgary, Alberta native. In fact, the belief is the Sabres actually got a steal, by being able to select him eighth overall in the 2016 draft.

Phrases such as “ridiculous set of hands” and “jaw-dropping passes” have commonly been used in reference to Nylander. It is this talent which saw him named both OHL and CHL rookie of the year last year.

With a resume such as this, it is understandable why some people are disappointing by the winger’s level of play in Rochester this season. However, that does not mean it has been a total loss, with him gaining valuable experience which can only help him in the long run.

Further, Nylander did impress at the 2017 World Junior Hockey Championships. Although Sweden lost in the Bronze medal game, he tied for the scoring lead in the tournament, with five goals and and 12 points in seven games.

Now, we get to see how Nylander responds to the pressures of the NHL level. It’s going to be an interesting night on Monday, at KeyBank Center.

Next: Jack Eichel is Not the Saviour

How would you rate Nylander’s season in Rochester? Further, do you believe he deserved to be recalled to Buffalo? Regardless, how do you think he will respond during the final four games og the Sabres’ season? Share your thoughts in the comments section.

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