Sunday night was unforgettable for the Nylander family as brothers William and Alex Nylander made history with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Playing together for the first time, the siblings became the 13th brother duo in franchise history and only the fifth to share the ice in the same game.
The Leafs celebrated the occasion with a 3-2 comeback victory over Utah HC at Scotiabank Arena. The Nylander family, including father Michael and sister Ella, witnessed the memorable night from the stands.
Michael Nylander, a former NHL player with a 920-game career, beamed with pride as his sons shared the ice. Ella captured the evening’s highlights on Instagram, showcasing her excitement with posts of the game-winning goal and snaps of her “big big bro” William and “lil big bro” Alex on the ice together.
“The entire day was special,” William Nylander said. “Seeing him [Alex] out there in the first period felt pretty crazy. Then it settled in and felt more normal.”
William Nylander scored his 14th goal of the season, which also became the game-winner. This milestone tied him for sixth in Leafs history with 43 career game-winning goals. Reflecting on the night, William said it was “pretty crazy” to share the ice with Alex, calling it a memory they’ll never forget.
“Felt pretty crazy,” William said. “Words can’t really describe it. I think this is what every hockey-playing brother pair probably wishes for as kids.” [H/T Sportsnet]
Called up from the AHL Marlies just days before, Alex Nylander embraced his NHL opportunity with enthusiasm. The 26-year-old winger, who previously played for four NHL teams, shared his brother’s excitement, calling it an “amazing” experience he will “remember forever.”
Mitch Marner puts up yet another masterclass at Scotiabank Arena
While the Nylander brothers stole the spotlight, Mitch Marner’s stellar performance was another highlight. Marner scored twice during a second-period surge and moved into 14th place on the Leafs’ all-time goal-scoring list with his 202nd career tally.
Mitch also made sure to acknowledge the Nylanders’ special night and the uncanny similarity between the brothers. “I think you see it from how they dress to on the ice — you kind of get lost at times thinking who’s who,” he said. “They both have a lot of swagger and a lot of confidence.”
Mitch Marner and John Tavares stayed hot on Sunday night vs. Utah 🔥@GordStellick explores whether #LeafsForever should keep Marner and Tavares together upon Auston Matthews' return with @SportsnetBen and @Gunning590.
— Sportsnet 590 The FAN (@FAN590) November 25, 2024
🎧 https://t.co/uTEY0zbJwt pic.twitter.com/nCzfPpoC4W
The Nylanders joined an exclusive group of brothers to play for the Maple Leafs, including the Jacksons, Metzs, and Cullens. The duo last played together for Sweden in the 2016 World Junior Championship, making their reunion even more meaningful.
The Leafs, now riding a four-game winning streak, head to Florida for their next matchups.