It's tough seeing a big-name acquisition not work out the way you expected. You want them to succeed and thrive so you can win a Stanley Cup. Otherwise, the arguments for flipping them become louder by the day.
Certainly, nobody wants to see that. That's why Vegas Golden Knights fans are still waiting for the one big game from Rasmus Andersson (I almost took out the "R"). The former Calgary Flames defenseman hasn't done much for the Golden Knights since being traded to Vegas. The regular season numbers show how ugly it's been for the newcomer.
We're talking about a slow start that eventually ended up being seven goals and 10 assists in 33 games. Golden Knights fans know that he's capable of much more than that. They know that he's one of the most underrated puck-moving defensemen in the NHL, especially when he has premier offensive pieces.
So, let's explore what lies ahead for the Swedish defenseman. Why must he be dominant in Game 1 against the Colorado Avalanche? Who won't be around for the Golden Knights that require his services?
Rasmus Andersson must have a big game for the Vegas Golden Knights in Game 1 against the Colorado Avalanche and here's why
When the Vegas Golden Knights acquired Rasmus Andersson from the Calgary Flames, the notion was that he'd be a puck-moving defenseman. He was supposed to be the pass-specialist, ranging from one-timer setups to stretch passes. However, that hasn't come to fruition, leaving fans preferring a certain Russian to be extended.
That's especially true when you only have three assists in 12 playoff games this postseason. The Golden Knights need plenty of production from its defensemen, starting with Andersson carrying the load. So, how in the world can he do this?
Well, scoring a goal can't hurt. The Golden Knights haven't seen such a thing from the Swedish Olympian this postseason, nor have they seen one since April 13 against the Winnipeg Jets. What better time to do this than Game 1 against a solid Avalanche team?
Let's be honest for a second, too. Vegas will likely be down a few players. Mark Stone and Jeremy Lauzon haven't practiced with the team this week and it's growing less likely that they'll play. Therefore, all hands must be on deck for the Golden Knights in Game 1.
Fans saw that with Tomas Hertl between Games 4 and 6 against the Anaheim Ducks. The Czech Olympian erupted for two goals and two assists in that span, leading Vegas to the next round.
That's what fans should expect from Andersson when the action kicks off on Wednesday. When your team is short a few players, you need others to pick up the slack and step up. Otherwise, you're golfing early and planning tee times in Summerlin (and yes, I know you've heard that a million times, yet it still rings true).
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