Axel Andersson

May 2022 – Andersson is rounding into a solid stay-at-home defender. The Ducks withheld from calling him last season because they wanted to see more offense and a little bit more aggression. But two years into his pro career it’s becoming apparent that he won’t be running any top power plays, and likely not seeing much time on the second unit. It’s still early though, as he is only 22. – Dobber

February 2020 – Andersson has been traded from Boston to Anaheim.  Jokke Nevalainen

January 2020 – Andersson has managed one goal and 19 points in 34 games for second-place Moncton this year in the QMJHL. Given his offensive ability, more might be expected out of the former second-rounder, especially on a talented Wildcats team. However, Andersson is still just 19 years old, and is in the midst of his first year after transitioning to North America. With Boston’s defensive depth, he will have plenty of time to develop his game and given his skillset. There is every reason to believe that his offensive production will continue to grow moving forward. He might still be a few years away from cracking the NHL roster, but playing for a competitive Moncton team can only benefit his efforts to reach the highest level. Chris Mazza

November 2019 – Andersson has seven points through 14 games for the Moncton Wildcats of the QMJHL. After being selected by the Wildcats in last summer’s import draft, Bruins GM Don Sweeney assigned the former second-rounder to the QMJHL, ultimately deciding that it would be the best spot for him to begin his transition to North America. Moncton currently sits first in their conference, so Sweeney appears to have found the perfect landing spot for him to develop his game. As he becomes more comfortable with his new team, look for Andersson to continue to establish his offensive game. Chris Mazza

March 2019 – Too good for Sweden’s junior league but not quite ready to play against men, Andersson spent the majority of this season in a decreased role with Sodertalje of the Allsvenskan. His team missed the playoffs, while Andersson saw the 8th most ice time among his squad’s defensemen. He managed just five points through 41 games but should see an increased role next season. Chris Mazza

November 2018 – Andersson was the Bruins’ second-round selection in last June’s NHL Draft, and joins a deep group of defense prospects in the organization. He has great puck skills and offensive instincts, which allow him to excel as a power play quarterback. He will likely spend the next few years developing in Sweden, as there is currently a long list of young, promising defensemen that are hoping to break through in Boston. Andersson has a chance to play a prominent role for his country at the upcoming World Junior Championship, which could act as a platform for the young defenseman. Chris Mazza

June 2018 – Axel fell to the Bruins in the second round and Boston was thrilled to get him. He is a quick, agile, highly creative and offensively inclined defenseman. Andersson has spent the past two seasons plying his trade with the Djurgardens IF U20 team in the Swedish SuperElit League. He followed up a decent rookie campaign in 2016-2017; where he posted 11 points in 29 games, by nearly tripling his offensive totals this season. The 57th overall pick racked up 31 points in 42 games in his draft year. A right-handed shot, Axel is more of a puck-distributor as is evident by his 25 helpers. Though his passing ability is at the forefront, his shot is nothing to balk at, it is deceptive and accurate. The Bruins are also attracted to his ability to lead and join the rush, he can skate like the wind and has some very deft hands. He came to the Bruins development came following his draft selection and earned himself a three-year entry level contract with Boston. He is a few years away but he is an exciting addition to the Bruins prospect cupboard and will put up numbers when he makes it. Sid Osmond