There is a reason for excitement surrounding the future of the New York Rangers. Lias Andersson’s first game as a member of the team is right around the corner and expectations will start swirling quickly.
The future of New York Rangers hockey is around the corner. As the 2017-18 season comes to a close, the next era ushers in. Part of the new era of the franchise will be Lias Andersson.
Last season, the Rangers used the earlier of two first-round draft picks on the Swedish prospect. At 18-years old, Andersson was playing among men in the Swedish Hockey League.
Initially, there were mixed reviews on the selection. It was the Rangers’ earliest draft pick of recent memory and such a “safe” pick was criticized extensively. Almost a year later, Andersson has done everything to endear himself to Rangers fans and management alike.
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What to expect
Andersson’s performance and the World Juniors tournament as Team Sweden’s captain was his rise to fame. His controversial, yet refreshing, competitiveness was on display during the medal ceremony.
That competitive nature and leadership ability are two aspects of Andersson’s game that will translate immediately at the NHL level. Unlike his first-round counterpart Filip Chytil, who will have loft expectations offensively, Andersson has an opportunity to contribute in other areas.
Since leaving Sweden, Andersson has been playing alongside other Rangers prospects in Hartford. Over that span, he has recorded 14 points, including five goals, in 23 games with the Wolf Pack.
Even with the perfect storm, Andersson’s role should be somewhat limited next season. The Rangers will likely head into the year with at least two of three of Mika Zibanejad, Kevin Hayes, and Vladislav Namestnikov. That would mean the Swede’s rookie season would involve primarily bottom-six assignments.
By no means is that to be seen as an indictment of Andersson’s abilities. It will give the youngster the leniency to continue fine-tuning his craft as a player who is good on all ends of the 200-foot ice surface.
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Optimistic thinking
Then there is another potential line of thinking. As a fan of the team, it’s normal to assume the best out of homegrown prospects. Assuming the best or a player like Lias Andersson is easy considering his favorable playing style and history.
His AHL numbers, while not flashy, are a look at where his offensive skill set currently ranks. However, at 20 years old, Andersson’s body and game have plenty of room for growth. Entering the 2018-19 season with a roster spot all but guaranteed will give him the opportunity to show his full potential.
In my dream scenario, Andersson and Chytil surface together. The bond that has grown between the two 2017 first-rounders is already obvious to onlookers. That synergy should continue to foster as they play alongside one another on the big-league team.
It’s not far-fetched to hope that the team’s new franchise cornerstones will bring the best out of each other. Chytil’s high offensive upside along with Andersson’s IQ and awareness for the game will make them a match made in heaven. It would also allow them to split time at the center position.
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Lias Andersson needs to make his presence known for his new franchise now. Expectations should be sky-high, regardless of reality. It’s an exciting next step for a rebuilding franchise and it’s literally right around the corner.