Flyers Prospect Emil Andrae is Blossoming at Right Time

In the 2020 NHL draft, Emil Andrae was selected by the Philadelphia Flyers in the second round with the 54th overall pick.

At the time, it was thought to be an interesting choice. The talent was there, but like most players in his situation, he would have to prove he can play in the rugged NHL despite his small stature.

Andrae is 5-foot-9, 181 pounds, and he plays with an edge. I don’t usually do comparisons, but I’m sure some will say — and have said — he’s in the mold of Torey Krug, who is now with St. Louis after seven strong seasons with Boston.  They do that because he’s the blueprint for smaller defensemen finding a path to the NHL. 

The Swede has a four-assist game already this year while playing for HV71 in the SHL, one of the best leagues in the world. In his first 25 games, the talented Andrae has 17 points. His penalty minutes are up because he’s had some major penalties. Andrae has that feistiness that fuels his game.

Strong on PP

Andrae shines on the power play with his crossover ability; it loosens up the box that might be playing against him, and he can either make a good pass or show off his effective wrist shot. His skating has improved a lot since his draft year. In addition, he’s a very smart puck rusher who can really get things going when his team is on the attack.

He is a weapon on the penalty kill. The Philadelphia Flyers don’t have enough defensemen like him. 

Emil Andrae utökar i powerplay 💥🏒 pic.twitter.com/768ed6UUaK

— C More Hockey (@cmorehockey) October 22, 2022

Soon to be 21, he should be ready to come over to North America in the next year or two. The key is not rushing him regardless of what’s happening at the NHL level. The Philadelphia Flyers must make sure he’s ready. 

EMIL. ANDRAE. AGAIN.

2-1 SWEDEN. #Flyers pic.twitter.com/pIWtd5oE3y

— TLY (@TheLibertyYell) August 17, 2022

The smart thing to do is start Andrae in the AHL. Let him get used to the difference in the game on smaller ice. It matters. I think he has top-four ability. He’s a left-shot defenseman, so that could make him a third-pairing guy at first, depending on whom is on the Flyers’ blueline when he’s ready. Cam York is also a left-shot defenseman, though he has been playing on the right side recently. 

Andrae should get a chance to play in the World Championships this season for Sweden, adding to his international resume. Then let’s see where he’s at in his development.

You can listen to prospects expert Russ Cohen on SiriusXM NHL Network Radio.

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