Photo Credit: Jose Moreno/Philadelphia Inquirer
Chuck Fletcher meant business is all season, and it started as soon as it began, “It’s about trying to create a new group, a new leadership group, new chemistry. All these guys we have acquired besides being good hockey players bring a lot of those qualities, bring a lot of experience, bring a lot of professionalism to our roster.”
Fletcher continued, “Obviously, we have to add a goalie. I think I would certainly look at another defenseman and another forward up front to add some more depth and yet we know we have some good kids that are going to push for opportunities. We’re excited. I think we’re going to be a deep team. We’re going to have maybe a little bit more experienced, particularly on the blue line. I think we’re going to have some guys coming back hungry and energized, ready to go. I’ve spoken to several players in the last 24 to 48 hours and they’re fired up. They’re excited. They finally feel like last year’s in the past and that it’s going to be a different world, a different camp, a different and, in my opinion, a better team.”
As mentioned above Flyers blueprint for the rest of the offseason is a backup goalie, another veteran defenseman, and a depth fourth line Center. It is likely that Fletcher will prioritize the fourth line Center position, and of course the backup goalie situation. If there is enough cap space available after these two positions have been filled, then I think he would add a depth defenseman. Here are some names to look for to fill the voids in these particular positions:
Goalie– Jonathan Bernier, Antii Raanta, Braden Holtby, James Reimer
Fourth Line Center- Derek Stepan, Tyler Bozak, Mikael Granlund would be perfect if the cap would work and he could be a 3C.
Veteran Defenseman– Brendan Smith, Ian Cole, Braydon Coburn
The good news is Fletcher is not banking on any young prospect to shine right out of the gate like he did last season. Each Prospect takes time, and yes this includes Cam York and Egor Zamula. It is better if that young prospect out plays the veteran for a spot in camp, rather than just banking on a young prospect to take the spot.
This philosophy above could help push the young players with competition. Competition is healthy and it can be a good thing in terms of production. The Flyers will add via free agency, but do not look for a blockbuster type deal, those have been handled already in the offseason thus far.
