The New York Rangers have a solid amount of prospects on their hands. While this is a good issue to have, they still need to narrow it down. And Lias Andersson needs to make the cut.
There are a few predicted lineups out there for the New York Rangers. However, a lot of them are based on the assumption that players such as Ryan Spooner stay on the team.
Perhaps most important part of the lineup, though, is which prospects will make the team. Last season both Filip Chytil and Lias Andersson played a few games for the Rangers down the stretch.
While both are obviously highly anticipated, Andersson needs the opportunity more than Chytil next year. This makes most sense for Andersson and the Rangers in respect to the different points they’re at.
The Argument
Andersson has the advantage in age on Chytil by one year, turning 20 this year. However, a comparison between the two players isn’t the most important part of explaining why Andersson should make the roster.
The most vital reason Andersson needs to be on the roster this next season is because he is ready. Yes, the current 19 year old is ready to compete at an NHL level. Now, no one should be expecting him to transform into Connor McDavid overnight. However, he possesses the tools necessary to grow at an exponential rate.
Andersson is known for his speed, hockey IQ, and heavy shot. At 5’ 11”, 205lbs, he isn’t the biggest player on the ice. But that doesn’t mean he doesnt make his presence known. His puck-handling abilities make it easy for him to weave in and out. That’s a skill players such as Kevin Hayes and Chris Kredier are still trying to master.
In 25 games with the Hartford Wolf Pack, he recorded five goals and nine assists for 14 points. He also played for Frolunda in the Swedish league, recording seven goals and seven assists for 14 points in 22 games.
Of course, those stats are only from this season. He has been incredibly consistent for the past number of years, dating back to mid teenage years. Also, in the season where he played the most amount of games, 37, he posted the most points, 59. That included 24 goals and 35 assists.
The Takeaway:
Andersson is a skilled forward that needs time to get adjusted to NHL level play. Keeping him in the AHL will only stunt his growth. Now, of course, this doesn’t mean he’s going to be excellent the second he starts out. However, he needs to be given the chance to showcase his talent.