NYLANDER RETURNS TO GRIFFINS

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – The Grand Rapids Griffins on Sunday evening welcomed back center Michael Nylander on assignment from the Washington Capitals.

Nylander, 37, made a significant impact with the Griffins during a two-week conditioning stint (Oct. 21-Nov. 4) earlier this season, contributing one goal, five power-play assists and a plus-one rating in five appearances. The Griffins converted 30.3% of their power play opportunities (10-of-33) and posted a 5-0 record with Nylander in their lineup, compared to a 16.1% success rate (14-for-87) and a 12-10 mark in their other 22 games.

The native of Stockholm, Sweden, has played in 920 NHL games for Washington, the New York Rangers, Boston, Chicago, Tampa Bay, Calgary and Hartford during his 19-year career, totaling 679 points (209-470—679) and 468 penalty minutes. Nylander has yet to play in the NHL this season after totaling 33 points (9-24—33) and 32 PIM in 72 games with the Capitals last year.

Nylander will be available to play on Tuesday when the Griffins visit Peoria for an 8 p.m. faceoff against the Rivermen at Carver Arena.