In the arch of player development, there is no clear-cut checklist of benchmarks. There is no single checklist of accomplishments any prospect can hit and ensure that they will be a success at the professional level. Even the best players at the amateur and developmental level can struggle to find their footing as a professional and take years to do so.
In electing to send Lias Andersson back to the AHL after 21 games at the NHL level, the front office is sending a clear message: we have plenty of time let’s not rush this. Player development is somewhere between an art and a science and the Rangers’ organization knows that all too well based on its recent history.