Prospect Q&A: Josh Anderson
Defenseman is getting ready for his second pro season
by Kate Reed / ColoradoAvalanche.com
Josh Anderson, 21, is entering his second pro season with the Colorado Avalanche organization after spending the 2018-19 campaign with the ECHL Utah Grizzlies and American Hockey League's Colorado Eagles.
Prior to signing with Colorado on March 29, 2018, the 6-foot-2, 225-pound defenseman spent four-plus seasons playing in the Western Hockey League for the Prince George Cougars and Swift Current Broncos. In four seasons with the Cougars, he recorded 35 total points (nine goals, 26 assists) before being traded to the Broncos in 2018. Anderson went on to tally seven points (two goals, five assists) with Swift Current during the regular season and helped the club win the WHL championship.
The Nanaimo, British Columbia, native was originally drafted 71st overall in the third round of the 2016 NHL Draft. He recently sat down with ColoradoAvalanche.com to discuss his time in the WHL, his first pro campaign and the upcoming season.
You're heading into your second season of pro hockey, what are your expectations heading into this season?
"I think just play at the highest level possible is my first goal. For sure the American League, and then hopefully just go from there."
What was your favorite moment from last season?
"I think just playing pro hockey. You go from playing against kids to men and guys with families. It's a lot more fun playing with the older guys."
What is different playing pro hockey?
"I think last year knowing it was my first season of pro hockey, obviously you're a little bit more nervous. This year I have a little bit better mindset of how things work and how things roll in pro hockey."
What was it like to win the WHL championship with Swift Current?
"It was awesome. It was a life-changing moment, for sure."
What made that Broncos team special?
"Just the guys in the room. A super tight-knit group in there, and we just played for each other every night."
Do you have any pregame routines?
"Nothing too crazy. Have a coffee and tape my sticks."
How would you describe your style of play?
"I would say that I'm a steady, stay-at-home D-man."
If you weren't playing hockey, what would you do as a career?
"I would probably fish and dive."
What are you most excited about this year?
"Making new friends. You make new friends and brothers for life each time you go a new team."
How was your preparation for the season?
"I think my off-ice training this summer has really helped me. I was down in Colorado a couple times for development camp and stuff like that. I feel good right now, so just keeping things moving."