The Swede would be an expensive acquisition, but he could be worth a look for the Capitals.
It's no secret that the Washington Capitals will likely be a much different team come October, as they are expected to make changes in an extended offseason after failing to make the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time in nine years.
How big of a splash they'll make remains a question, but one interesting name being thrown around may be someone that general manager Brian MacLellan wants to take a look at: William Nylander.
With the Toronto Maple Leafs again failing to find success and winning just one more game after finally making it past the first round, the Leafs could be looking to shake things up with the core, especially with Kyle Dubas no longer at the helm. In turn, Nylander's name has emerged on the scene.
The 27-year-old right wing has one year left on his contract at $6.96 million and will have 10 teams on his no-trade list on July 1. He will be an unrestricted free agent next summer.
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Nylander has had his moments and growing pains, but he has come into his own over these last few seasons. He has recorded 80-plus points in back-to-back seasons and, for the first time in his career, hit the 40-goal mark this season while recording a career-high 87 points.
The son of Capitals alumnus Michael Nylander and former Team Maryland forward has been showcasing his speed, high hockey IQ, quick hands and wicked shot, and he has proven that he can be an impact player when he puts in the effort.
That's something that Washington needs. MacLellan said he wants to revamp the top-6 and get younger and faster, and Nylander is the type of player that fits the bill. And of course, if Spencer Carbery does become the next bench boss in D.C., it would be a familiar face.
He doesn't come cheap, though. The Swede will be a popular commodity and likely require core players and top-6 contributors in return.
Of course, Evgeny Kuznetsov is a popular All-Star caliber name Washington has on the roster, but his value has gone down after a disappointing campaign saw his points-per-game rate take a nosedive. Anthony Mantha's name has also reportedly come up in "a few different" trade talks across the league, but his value is not that high, either.
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The rumor mill had thrown Tom Wilson's name out there, but that's all just white noise and speculation. Wilson said he can't imagine playing for any other team and won't play hardball when it comes to an extension, which he's eligible to sign starting July 1. The feeling is mutual for management, who want No. 43 to finish his career with the Capitals.
So, if there is interest surrounding Nylander for Washington, MacLellan may have to spice up the package with retained salary, picks or even prospects.
Still, for a proven top-6 forward and All-Star caliber player who has shown more consistency over time -- and it may be worth at least looking into for a team that wants to retool on the fly and be back in playoff position as soon as possible.