NHL Insider Reveals the Next Forward Likely to be Called Up by the Montreal Canadiens

Lias Andersson Could Be Next Canadiens Forward Called Up

The Montreal Canadiens currently hold the 13th position in the Eastern Conference, seemingly outside the playoff contention unless they embark on a significant winning streak. It is anticipated that the team will continue to make trades leading up to the trade deadline. Sean Monahan has already been traded, creating a vacancy in the lineup for potential call-ups, but it is likely that the Canadiens will be active in further transactions.

With available spots in the forward position due to Monahan’s departure and other players’ injuries, the Canadiens are tapping into their developmental system by promoting players for evaluation. Recent additions include Joel Armia being recalled, along with Joshua Roy and Brandon Gignac being given opportunities.

Armia is an established NHL player, while there is excitement surrounding Roy’s progression in the NHL. However, Gignac is a lesser-known player. Typically, those who have demonstrated the ability to excel against higher-level competition are prioritized for promotion, as observed with the Canadiens and Laval Rocket. As more player movements are expected, or if Roy or Gignac do not remain with the NHL team for the season, attention may turn to the next potential candidate, such as Lias Andersson.

Andersson comes from a strong background

In the Canadiens’ system, Andersson stands out among the younger players who could be called up to play for Montreal this season due to his impressive draft history. Despite being 25 years old now, having been selected seventh overall in 2017, he still holds the highest potential for growth given the right opportunities. While some may view his age as a drawback, I see it as an advantage as he brings 110 games of NHL experience and potential for development.

At 25, many players have yet to reach their peak performance, and with the current scenario in Montreal providing space and chances, it could be the perfect moment for Andersson to shine. His addition to the team was low-risk, and with the right opportunity, he could prove his worth in the league.

The Canadiens have openings at center and wing, and if Roy remains in the NHL as a winger, it could lead to Andersson potentially taking over Gignac’s spot on the fourth line if Gignac underperforms or struggles to adjust to the NHL level. Despite Andersson’s production not meeting expectations in the NHL so far, he is known for his physical play and has more takeaways than giveaways throughout his career. Additionally, he has seen more ice time on the penalty kill compared to the power play, with an equal number of points on both special teams (just one). This indicates his ability to excel in a defensive role and suggests that he hasn’t had the ideal chances to showcase his offensive capabilities yet.

Andersson has been averaging less than 11 minutes of ice time per game throughout his career and has not found himself in favorable situations to thrive. Despite consistently posting solid numbers in the American Hockey League (AHL) season after season, earning him occasional NHL call-ups, he has only played one NHL game in the past season and a half. This season in the AHL, he has recorded 13 goals and 23 points in 28 games, and his performance with the Ontario Reign, the AHL affiliate of the Los Angeles Kings, was similarly impressive last season. He tallied 31 goals and 59 points in 67 games but was rewarded with just one NHL appearance, playing 8:37 minutes.

For two years now, Andersson has not been granted a significant opportunity in the NHL despite demonstrating his potential to make an impact if given the chance. The Canadiens have the roster space and potential openings for him, and passing on the opportunity to give him a shot on the third line this season could be a missed opportunity they might regret.