Flyers Prospect Defenseman Ready for the NHL?

Rebuilding teams do not exhibit the same loyalty towards their players as teams are focused on a championship run. Rather, players are viewed as commodities that can facilitate progress.

Secondly, rebuilding teams often keep a few spots open on their roster, providing younger players and prospects an opportunity to compete for a spot in the upcoming season. This may be the case for Flyers defensive prospect, Emil Andrae.

Andrae, a 21-year-old from Sweden, stands at 5 feet 9 inches and weighs 181 pounds. He was drafted in the second round, 54th overall, in the 2020 NHL draft.

According to eliteprospects.com, Andrae is an impressive defenseman with a knack for winning puck battles. He excels at shooting the puck from the point and possesses excellent vision, allowing him to set up great plays.

These sentiments were echoed by Assistant General Manager Brent Flahr, who confidently stated that Andrae should be ready to compete for a roster spot next year. Flahr expressed his belief, saying, "To me, he's pretty close to challenging for a full-time spot," during the close of the Development Camp.

With the departure of Tony D'Angelo and the strong possibility of Helgs Grans, acquired from the Los Angeles Kings in a three-way deal with the Columbus Blue Jackets, the Flyers' defence core continues to grow younger and more agile.

It is important to note that if Andrae does not make the Flyers this year, he will return to Sweden following the rules set by the Swedish Ice Federation.

Once training camp begins, Flyers fans will look at Andrae's abilities, hoping that he can secure a spot on the team this year.