Buffalo Sabres: Alex Nylander gets another shot

Alex Nylander has three games to show how much he’s developed since he made four appearances for the Buffalo Sabres at the end of last season.

Alex Nylander had big goals for himself entering this season, including starting the campaign with the Buffalo Sabres. However, an injury during a prospects challenge game against the New Jersey Devils put paid to that ambition.

At least Nylander will get to finish the NHL season in Western New York. As reported by Brayton Wilson of WGR 550, he has been called up from the Rochester Americans.

Amerks captain Kevin Porter has also been recalled by the Sabres. However, with all due respect, it’s his teammate who will draw most of the attention.

This will be Nylander’s second opportunity to show what he can do at the NHL level. He was called up for the end of last season and notched one assist in four appearances.

It’s fair to say the 2016 eighth overall draft pick hasn’t progressed as much as expected in his two seasons with the Sabres franchise. It doesn’t help that his brother, William Nylander, has been performing so well in Toronto.

In that respect, the 2017/18 campaign has been particular frustrating for the younger Nylander. Injuries definitely compromised his impact at the AHL level, and he has just seven goals and 26 overall points in 48 games, along with a +2 plus/minus rating.

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Ironically though, this still represents an improvement from last season with the Amerks. During the 2016/17 campaign, the 20-year-old had 28 overall points in 65 games and a -24 rating, which was actually worst on the roster.

As per Wilson, Nylander enjoyed some success at the 2018 IIHF World Junior Championship in Buffalo. He helped Sweden claim silver, with a goal and six assists in seven games.

Overall, no one is denying the Calgary, Alberta native’s talent. He has been described as a creative, highly skilled scoring winger with excellent upside.

However, Nylander still has a long way to go and will be eager to prove himself to Phil Housley. In what has been another disappointing season for the Sabres, at least the fans have someone to take an interest in during the final three games.

Next: Reinhart goes from strength to strength

Have you seen much of Nylander with the Amerks this season? What kind of production are you projecting for him over these final three games? In addition, do you predict he will be with the Buffalo Sabres at the start of next season? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.