Lost Rookies: 1987-88 OPC Anders Carlsson

  Anders Carlsson was the first Swedish player to be drafted in the 1986 Entry Draft, 66th overall by the New Jersey Devils.  Anders, whom had played professionally in Sweden since 1979, was 25 years old when he was drafted.  In the spring before the draft, Anders led Team Sweden to a Silver medal in the World Hockey Championships.  Anders led team Sweden, and finished 7th overall, with 12 points.
  Anders started the season on the second line with Aaron Broten and John MacLean but did not produce as expected.  He was held pointless until Nov 6th, and did not score a goal until Jan 26th, which occurred after a brief demotion to the AHL.  Anders spent more time in the minors than the NHL the two following seasons.  He did see action in 3 play-offs games during the Devils Cinderella run to the Conference Finals in 1988.  He was credited with the game-winning goal against the Washington Capitals during Patrik Sundstrom's NHL play-off record 8 point game.
  Anders was never able to secure a full-time position in the NHL, and would return to play in Sweden in 1989.  He retired in 2000, at the age of 40.
  While Anders Carlsson had a few cards produce of himself in 90s while in the Swedish hockey league, he never had a NHL hockey card during his short NHL career, or after.  Below is my version of a 1987-88 OPC Anders Carlsson rookie card.

1987-88 OPC #266 Anders Carlsson (RC)

1987-88 OPC #266 Anders Carlsson (RC)