Sunday night at Scotiabank Arena is going to be a special night for the organization and specifically, for the Nylander family. The Maple Leafs signed Alex Nylander to a one-year NHL contract on Friday and he’s set to make his debut in blue and white against Utah HC.

With all the injuries up front to the Maple Leafs, having six forwards unavailable for various reasons, Alex gets a chance to live out a dream of playing alongside his brother William in the NHL. It’s something very special, not only for the family but something that’s felt throughout the entire dressing room. Leafs’ defenceman Morgan Rielly spoke to reporters before practice Sunday and reiterated how much he can tell it means to both Alex and William.

“They’re pretty excited, I think William more than Alex, if that makes any sense. We had a chance to chat the other night. I think it’s awesome, I think it’s a great opportunity for them,” stated Rielly. “A really special thing for both of them and their family. And, they’ve earned it. This isn’t something to do for good karma or anything.”

Alex has recorded 12 points in 14 games with the AHL’s Toronto Marlies. He’s a dynamic talent who has the ability to get streaky, and while it’s certainly a feel-good story for the Nylanders and the Maple Leafs, it’s not something that was handed out to feel all warm and fuzzy. Rielly reiterated it has everything to do with Alex’s play of late, and his abilities to make the Maple Leafs better right now, a team very shorthanded due to injuries.

“Alex has earned it. I thought he had a good camp, he’s obviously playing well with the Marlies. So, come up here and get an opportunity, I think that’s special.”

When asked by TSN’s Mark Masters if Rielly has ever had the chance to play with his brother on the ice. It became quite obvious quickly, that not all families are lucky enough to have this much skill in their blood lines.

“I don’t think he’d be offended if I said this, but we were playing different levels. So no, but we did everything together, we played some street hockey, but we never played on the same team, or anything like that.”