In his preseason debut last night, Lias Andersson had two goals, 3 shots, 1 shot that missed the net, 1 hit and was 4 and 8 on faceoffs in 19:11.
Andersson played 19:11, with 9:45 at even strength, 6:03 on the PP and 3:23 on the PK. He played 5:24 in the first, 6:38 in the second, 6:33 in the third and 33 seconds inOT.
Speaking before the game on Monday, David Quinn said that Andersson has gotten better each day and that the two had a conversation about playing a simple game and doing what got him to this point. (SNY via NYR)
Following the game last night, Quinn said that he thought Andersson "had a good night."
Andersson said after the game that he wants to be an "all-around player" that takes important faceoffs in the defensive zone,blocks shots and scores goals. (NYR)
He added, "I want to do everything." (NYR)
Andersson spent time this summer working with Ben Prentiss on adding explosiveness to his skating, adding that he doesn't think he would have been able to score the shorthanded goal that he did last year. (The Athletic, NY Post)
Jeff Gorton said that he thinks Andersson is "really close" and brings a lot of different things that the Rangers need.
He said that the Rangers need Andersson's competitive edge, 200ft game and described him as a "win at all costs kind of guy." (NHL Network)
Henrik Lundqvist said that Andersson's time with the Rangers gave him "a lot of insight" into what is required to play in the NHL but noted that it's important that not too much pressure is put on him this season. (Hockey Sverige)
Andersson said that he has to be "stronger and faster" this year to play in the NHL and that while he thinks he has the "tools to be a good NHL player," it's about learning the game and being ready physically.
While speaking after Traverse City, Andersson said that the wants to play with the puck more this year, make smart plays and "be a player that can change games."
Andersson said that he thinks he is ready to play in the NHL and worked hard this past summer to put him in this situation. (NY Post)
Quinn added, "we know what kind of player Lias is, he is a guy we are going to count on moving forward here. (NYR)
Adam Rotter: It was very exciting to see Andersson perform like he did. It's one-game, a preseason game at that, but that was a big part of the Rangers future last night. Talent evaluators don't consider him to be the first-line offensive type of center that Filip Chytil may turn out to be, but Andersson is the one who will be playing in all situations, playing the tough minutes and defending leads late in the third. He's going to make the team this year though his spot and role are still to be determined. Even if it's a fourth line role, I think that would benefit Andersson and allow him to get experience in many different situations.