Scouting Report: William Nylander, C, Sodertalje (Sweden)

Central Scouting Rank: 2nd

Bio

2013-14 Stats

Overview

Nylander opened the season with Sodertalje SK, moved to Rogle BK, and finished the season with Modo Hockey Ornskoldsvik. The second-ranked European skater showed his offensive prowess, scoring 34 points in 57 games.

Nylander is a gifted playmaker but will likely need to add some bulk to survive at the NHL level. With his vision, he would be a great fit with the New York Islanders working alongside John Tavares, or feeding Taylor Hall and Jordan Eberle in Edmonton.

Pro Comparison

Joe Thornton, Martin St. Louis.

Scouts are saying

Craig Button, TSN

Nylander boasts high-end skills highlighted by excellent puck control. His confidence with the puck is outstanding and he has as much patience with it as any player in the draft.

Gordan Stubb, NHL Director of European Scouting

They both have great tools and excellent offensive instincts. Kapanen [ranked No.1] is a bit taller than Nylander [5-11, 169] and perhaps more mature as a player, but there is a very small difference between the two.

Highlights