Josh Anderson, a Canadian professional ice hockey player, has been known for his physical style of play and scoring ability. Born on May 7, 1994, in Burlington, Ontario, Anderson began his journey in hockey at a young age, eventually making his way to the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) where he played for the London Knights. His performance in the OHL caught the attention of NHL scouts, leading to his selection by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the fourth round, 95th overall, of the 2012 NHL Entry Draft.
Anderson's professional career began with the Blue Jackets' American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Springfield Falcons, during the 2014-2015 season. His time in the AHL helped him develop his skills and adapt to the professional level of play. Anderson made his NHL debut with the Columbus Blue Jackets during the 2014-2015 season, appearing in six games. Over the next few seasons, he gradually became a regular in the Blue Jackets' lineup, known for his speed, size, and ability to play a power-forward role.
The 2016-2017 season marked a turning point for Anderson as he established himself as a full-time NHL player. He played in 78 games and scored 17 goals, demonstrating his potential as a goal scorer. His performance earned him a three-year contract extension with the Blue Jackets in 2017. Anderson continued to be a valuable asset for Columbus, contributing both offensively and defensively.
In the 2018-2019 season, Anderson achieved a career-high 27 goals and 47 points, further solidifying his role on the team. His physical play and ability to score made him a fan favorite and an important part of the Blue Jackets' roster. However, the following season was challenging for Anderson due to injuries. He was limited to just 26 games and scored only one goal, which led to uncertainty about his future with the team.
In October 2020, Anderson's career took a new direction when he was traded to the Montreal Canadiens in exchange for Max Domi and a third-round draft pick. Shortly after the trade, Anderson signed a seven-year contract with the Canadiens, signaling the team's confidence in his abilities. In Montreal, Anderson quickly became an integral part of the lineup, bringing his physical presence and scoring touch to the team.
During the 2020-2021 season, Anderson played a key role in the Canadiens' surprising run to the Stanley Cup Final. He scored 17 goals in the regular season and added five more in the playoffs, including crucial goals in the later rounds. Anderson's performance in the playoffs highlighted his ability to perform under pressure and contribute in important moments.
The following season, Anderson continued to be a consistent performer for the Canadiens, despite the team's struggles. His ability to play a power-forward game and contribute offensively remained valuable assets for Montreal. Throughout his career, Anderson has been recognized for his work ethic and ability to play a physical, north-south game that is well-suited to the NHL.
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