Emil Andrae Making Strides at Flyers Rookie Camp
Emil Andrae took to the ice for the first practice of the Flyers rookie camp with a new sense of speed and determination. After making the Flyers out of training camp last season, Andrae struggled to keep up with the fast pace of the NHL and was eventually sent down to the AHL’s Lehigh Valley Phantoms. Head coach John Tortorella recognized that Andrae needed more development before making a return to the NHL.
Andrae spent the rest of the season with the Phantoms, playing a total of 71 games and gaining valuable experience. This offseason, he focused on improving his speed and explosiveness, working with a personal trainer to enhance his skills. When Andrae arrived at camp this week, Phantoms head coach Ian Laperrière immediately noticed the difference in his performance.
“They went home and put the work in,” Laperrière said. “And Andy looks like he lost a little bit of weight, put a little bit more muscle on, and it shows on the ice. It’s great maturity to see him realize the importance of offseason training.”
Developing His Game
Andrae, a second-round pick in 2020, was drafted for his puck-moving defensive game. He showed promise last season with the Phantoms, tallying five goals and 27 assists in 61 regular-season games. However, to make a return to the NHL, Andrae knew he needed to work on his speed.
Laperrière praised Andrae’s commitment to improving his weaknesses and looks forward to seeing his progress during the upcoming exhibitions. “It’s easy to think you’ve figured it out, but Andy went back home and worked on his quickness. I’m excited to see him play tomorrow,” Laperrière commented.
Setting the Intensity
During rookie camp, defenseman Hunter McDonald showcased his physicality, setting the tone for a competitive environment. Laperrière emphasized the importance of intensity and praised McDonald’s aggressive play.
“He brings the intensity. He’s in your face. He’s physical. He looks great, and that’s why he was intense today,” Laperrière said. McDonald’s physical presence adds a new dimension to the Flyers’ defensive lineup.
As for top prospect Matvei Michkov, his early display of fight and determination impressed Laperrière, showing the potential for a strong camp. “It brings the intensity. I’m sure those guys are gonna go next week—we have to worry about a rookie camp right now—but next week when main camp starts, they’ll crank it up,” Laperrière added.
It’s clear that Andrae, McDonald, and Michkov are determined to make a statement at rookie camp and earn their spot in the future of the Flyers organization.
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