Josh Anderson: The Canadiens’ Calculated Gamble

On October 8th, 2020, Josh Anderson put a pen to paper on a seven-year deal with the Montreal Canadiens. Two days prior to agreeing terms on a long-term contract, the right-winger joined the Habs from Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for Max Domi. Upon making the switch, many Canadiens’ supporters saw Anderson’s arrival as a gamble, especially given his injury history.

However, at six-foot-three and 26-years-old, Marc Bergevin saw potential in the Burlington-born right-hander. Although early into his tenure under Claude Julien, Anderson’s game has returned to expectations. As such, supporters are wondering whether this bright promise is sustainable or merely the blush of being with a new-team. Well, let’s analyze his current progress and consider what the future holds.

Exceeding Expectations for Le Bleu-Blanc-Rouge

In recent years, Anderson has fallen victim to injury issues, which has hampered his career progression. During the 2019-20 NHL campaign, the 26-year-old was sidelined for six months following a posterior tear in his left shoulder back in 2019. Initially, Jarmo Kekalainen, the Blue Jackets’ general manager, declared that non-surgical rehabilitation was an option, although Anderson’s camp didn’t agree.

Because of his injuries and their lack of depth, the Blue Jackets sought to move him on and bring in Domi to further their centre depth. Prior to his injuries, Anderson played well for Columbus. In 2018-29, he enjoyed his best season in the NHL, scoring 27 goals in 82 matches. Furthermore, the 26-year-old also provided 20 assists and boasted a shooting percentage of 11.74, his second-highest total during his time with the Blue Jackets. The year before, he had a 30 goal-campaign, while, in 2016-17, that total sat at 29.

The severity of Anderson’s injuries in the recent past sparked debate over the Habs’ decision to offer him a $5.5 million-a-year contract for seven years. On talent alone, the potential was always there. However, his ability to stay healthy and to be a reliable long-term option saw some question the decision.

Thus far, Anderson’s on course to enjoy his best season in the NHL. In the Canadiens’ opening 12 matches in the North Division, they won eight games and scored 28 goals. During that time, the 26-year-old scored eight goals and provided two assists. He also recorded a 21.6 shooting percentage. At his current rate, he’s heading the best season-long return of his NHL career, just 19 goals behind his 2018-19 tally. Of course, whether or not he can remain fit will be a pivotal factor behind whether he can sustain his existing form.

The Task of Replacing Domi

Prior to his departure, many believed that Domi would become a leader for the Montreal Canadiens. As such, there’s pressure on Anderson to step up and be a presence both on and off the rink. In Domi’s final season for the Canadiens, he produced 17 goals and 27 assists in 71 games, boasting a 9.5 percent shooting percentage.

In Anderson, the team captained by Shea Weber have a player that is arguably less creative than Domi. Back in 2018-19, the new Blue Jackets left winger recorded 44 assists, which is thus far the best of his career. By comparison, Anderson’s best campaign in this regard came in the same season, although his total sat at just 20 assists.

More often than not, Domi led the Canadiens to victory in closely-fought contests. Crucially, that’s something that Anderson will also have to do. To his credit, he hasn’t shied away from that challenge thus far. Against the Ottawa Senators on February 6th, the 26-year-old scored the match-winning goal in a 2-1 victory for the Habs. Because of their impressive start, it’s not out of the question that the Canadiens may challenge for the Stanley Cup this year. Although they aren’t among the favourites in NHL predictions, they undoubtedly have the talent to continue surpassing expectations and shock the current joint-favourite picks: Colorado Avalanche and Vegas Golden Knights.

Encouraging Signs, but Consistency is Key

Few can argue that Anderson hasn’t enjoyed a fruitful start to the 2020-21 campaign. Now, the challenge is finding the consistency that’s long eluded him. If he can steer clear of any long-term injuries, he can play a leading role in the Habs’ success this year. Ultimately, the 26-year-old has surpassed all expectations so far, and there’s nothing to say that he can’t continue to do so.