An unexpected player could cause a surprise during training camp

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Elias Edmonson
August 25, 2023 (5:09 PM)

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Just a few weeks away from training camp, all indications suggest that Kent Hughes has finalized his lineup (aside from a potential transaction involving Casey DeSmith) for the upcoming season. Indeed, one should not expect the Canadiens' general manager to announce any new acquisitions in the coming days.

Many experts are taking advantage of this quieter period to predict the trio combinations that coaches will use on the sidelines of the pre-season games, but especially for the first matchup of the regular season.

Moreover, while many observers say that Jesse Ylonen could be the only forward with a two-way contract in Martin St. Louis' lineup, journalist Allan Mitchell doesn't quite agree.

In a recent column published on The Athletic, Allan Mitchell listed 32 players who are currently flying under the radar but might eventually earn a spot in their respective teams.

He particularly believes that newcomer Lias Andersson might surprise everyone and carve out a spot in the Montreal Canadiens' lineup.

"Andersson, picked 7th in the 2017 draft, is now with his third organization. At 24, with only 110 NHL games under his belt, his signing with the Canadiens feels like a 'last chance' for the centerman. Andersson had his best season in the AHL (31 goals and 28 assists in 67 games) with the Reign in 2022-23, and if he can bring those skills to the Canadiens' training camp, he should stick with the team for a while. Andersson is the perfect player to fill a role among the bottom six forwards, and Montreal might give him a shot at some point this season." - Allan Mitchell

While some believed that Owen Beck, Joshua Roy, or Logan Mailloux might force the management's hand, it will be essential to keep a close eye on Lias Andersson, who could be one of the last cuts for the Tricolore.

Certainly, if the former New York Rangers and Los Angeles Kings player can replicate last year's performances with the Laval Rocket, it's hard to see how he wouldn't get a chance with the main team during the 2023-2024 season.

It's worth noting that his 31 goals in the AHL last year placed him sixth among the league's top scorers, ahead of a certain Anthony Richard.

His offensive contribution will be crucial if the Rocket hopes to succeed, especially since many good veterans like Anthony Richard, Peter Abbandonato, and Joël Teasdale left the organization this summer.

However, surrounded by young offensive prospects like Joshua Roy, Emil Heineman, Sean Farrell, and Filip Mesar, all eager to showcase their full range of talents to the Canadiens' management, we are convinced that Andersson will be able to produce offensively.

Do you believe Lias Andersson should start the season in Montreal?

Credit: Habs et LNH

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In your opinion, should Lias Andersson start the season with the Montreal Canadiens or the Laval Rocket?
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