Early 2022 predictions for Axel Jonsson Fjallby

Next up on our Washington Capitals early player predictions, we’ll take a look at Axel Jonsson Fjallby. Last season he scored two goals and two assists for four points in 23 games, averaging 11:11 minutes per game.

The big question for AJF is whether or not he’ll get an expanded role this upcoming season. If you asked me a few months ago, I would’ve said yes. Now that I’m hearing Carl Hagelin is making steady progress, it might make things all the more interesting.

Hagelin had eye surgery and initially took the informal skates in a light blue non contact jersey. But he was recently cleared for contact and has looked good. But there’s still some hurdles Hagelin has to go through.

AJF made his NHL debut on Nov. 8 at home against the Buffalo Sabres last season, ironically the team that claimed him off waivers in the preseason before putting him back on waivers, allowing the Caps to snatch him right back.

So what could we expect from AJF? I think he’ll crack the opening day lineup as Hagelin continues his road to recovery from the eye injury.

That being said, if Hagelin is out skating and participating in contact drills we could see him back in the lineup sooner rather than later.

I could see AJF increasing his numbers to five goals and 10 assists for 15 points when all is said and done. He’ll be a good backup depth forward this season on the fourth line until Hagelin returns.

AJF had some good years in Hershey and he’s ready for more NHL game action. But what happens when the Caps are fully healthy one year from now?

I’m talking about not just Tom Wilson coming back but Nicklas Backstrom as well as Hagelin. Then what does the future hold for AJF? We’ll see.