2021 Top 25 Under 25: #3 - Rasmus Andersson

#3 - Rasmus Andersson

Age: 24

Position: Defence

2020-21 Team: Calgary Flames (NHL)

Stats: 56 GP, 5 G, 16 A, 21 Pts, 34 PIM, -9

Drafted in 2015, Round 2, Pick 53

2020 Ranking: #2 (-1)

Coming in at number three this year is number four on the Calgary Flames, Rasmus Andersson. Andersson fell one spot this year after an up and down 2020-21 season where he just didn’t take the step forward that many had expected him to. While his point totals were pretty good with 21 points in 56 games, he just lacked the defensive consistency needed over the course of the season and seemed to struggle regardless of if he was paired with Mark Giordano or Noah Hanifin.

Everything about his 2020-21 season screamed that he was “fine” but expectations were higher from fans, the team, and more than likely himself. He still did improve at some parts of his game, but Flames fans have to be holding our for more significant growth heading into this season.

One specific area to watch this year will be what sort of usage he gets on special teams, particularly on the powerplay. He was the quarterback of the top unit in the final preseason game and picked up three assists in the process. There is no doubt about his offensive abilities and he also possesses a wicked shot which the Flames will be aiming to use more this year with Mark Giordano off to Seattle.

There is still a lot of room for Andersson to grow, and after being tasked with increased responsibilities last year, he should be more comfortable when given tough minutes this season. He will definitely be one of the Flames X-Factors this season.