The eighth overall pick in the 2014 NHL entry draft, William Nylander has progressed about as well as could’ve been expected since his draft year.
There is a compelling argument to be made that Nylander was deserving of a higher draft choice in the first place.
Born in Calgary, Alberta, Nylander is the son of long-time NHLer, Michael, and brother of Alex, the 2016 eighth overall pick of the Buffalo Sabres. Playing in North American leagues growing up, William showed a freak aptitude for the game of hockey at an early age.
In almost every single league growing up, the case can be made that Nylander has been the most talented player on his team and one of — if not the — best player in his respective league, often times while playing one or two years up from his age group.