New York Rangers: Early impressions of Filip Chytil and Lias Andersson

In a lost season that will result in missing the playoffs for the first time since 2009-2010, there isn’t much to be excited about as a New York Rangers fan.

However, 18 year-old Filip Chytil and 19 year-old Lias Andersson are two rookies that showed a lot of promise for the future in their brief stint in the NHL. No one expected the Rangers to be prioritizing development over winning at this point in the season, but here we are.

Chytil and Andersson were both recalled for a game against the Washington Capitals on March 26, 2018. It was Andersson’s NHL debut, while it was Chytil’s third game.

Both have been impressive considering they were drafted just last offseason. Their skill and skating ability is apparent. Yet, both bring a little something different. Let’s take a look at what each brings to the table, and analyze a little further.

Filip Chytil

Chytil is definitely the more flashy player. He’s a deceiving 6-foot-2, 192 pounds, elusive and possesses a ton of skill. In nine games, he has one goal and two assists and he could’ve had more. He’s had numerous chances on breakaways due to his impressive offensive instincts.

His play in Hartford certainly warranted a second look at the pro level. In 45 games with the Wolf Pack, he scored 11 goals and 20 assists for 31 points while being deployed as one of the team’s top centers.

Chytil has shown he has a place in this teams future top-six. A player with his skillset is meant to mesh with skilled players like Pavel Buchnevich or Mats Zuccarello because he can move the puck with ease.

Chytil has the ability to go for the home-run play, and is a much needed addition to a Rangers team that is struggling to produce high quality chances. I wouldn’t expect him to light the world on fire next season, but at such a young age, the ceiling is high for the Czech native.

Lias Andersson

Andersson was drafted at number seven as the safe choice, and the most “NHL ready.” In the seven games he’s played at the NHL level, it’s clear to see what the Rangers brass was thinking. Andersson plays a very reliable, two-way game. While he’s not as noticeable as Chytil, he’s certainly just as efficient.

Andersson does a good job making tough decisions with the puck, engages well on the fore-check, works hard, and adds an offensive punch. He wasted no time, scoring in his NHL debut right in front of the net. Andersson started the season with Frolunda HC, and spent 24 games with Hartford. He had 14 points in 24 games with the Wolf Pack.

There’s no reason Andersson can’t be an effective third-line center with the Rangers next season. His versatility makes him even more valuable in killing penalties, and playing on the power play.

Andersson hasn’t gotten any power-play time from coach Alain Vigneault yet. In fact, he’s only averaging 11:23 time on ice. But, there’s no doubt he can fill a hole on a team that has many. He reminds me a lot of Derek Stepan, the player they traded away to draft him with the seventh selection.

The Future is Bright

It’s important not to rush the development of the two highly-coveted prospects. But it’s clear both are ready to be everyday NHL players.

Next: Fans should expect more against the Islanders

The Rangers will have to make a lot of important decisions going forward in terms of competing next season.

Will they sign some veteran free agents as bridge options? Or will they let the youngsters play? Regardless, there’s no doubt Chytil and Andersson should play.

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