The Flyers selected a sturdy, powerful winger in the 4th round of the 2020 NHL Draft. They selected a physical goal-scorer in Zayde Wisdom, who compiled 29 goals, and 30 assists for 59 points last season for the Kingston Frontenacs. It appears Wisdom has been a Philadelphian for a while one would think:
“I always knew Philly was in consideration. I play their type of hockey. Big body. The Broad Street Bullies as they’re known. Big body, kind of gritty hockey. They’re always there for me in my mind. I was like maybe these guys. It was never strong or anything like that. I had no clue who I was going to in the draft. No clue who I was going to coming into this. Super excited to hear my name by the Broad Street Bullies for sure.- Zayde Wisdom said on draft day
Watch this Broad Street Bully goal that he scored tonight as an 18-year-old in the AHL:
The Flyers drafted this powerful sturdy Winger with the hopes he could use his goal-scoring abilities, combined with a physical element to deliver a one-two punch to opponents in the future. Wisdom has quite a journey to get where he is today with his hockey career and Scott Wheeler of the Athletic did an amazing write up on the challenges he endured when he was younger.
Wisdom is fortunate to be in the AHL this season with the uncertainty to the OHL season, but he is taking full advantage of this golden opportunity. This type of goal above is exactly what is missing currently from Flyers forwards, and this was all skill. Could Zayde earn a call-up in the coming weeks? Well, if he keeps producing like he is (Tied for second in the AHL with five goals) then it becomes hard to say no.
Let’s get this kid up here and give him a look. 5-8 games to see if he can stick!
Jamie, I hope you are happy and well. I just want to thank you for being the perfect Flyers writer. You teach Flyer fans about what the future holds for the team, not just the present. Your stories on the draft and Flyer’s prospects, give fans a reason to be excited about the future. Thank you so much.
Zayde Wisdom. How did Chuck Fletcher ever become Ron Hextall when he drafted this kid. Not only is Wisdom a throw back to the once physical play of 1970’s Flyers hockey, but the kid has a skill set too. His story is just what we need in these difficult times. . A great kid, from a great family, down on their luck.This kid may be the next Wayne Simmonds. Let’s hope he is. A young leader is always appreciated in Philly. He may just wake up the the people sitting in the lower bowl beginning next year.
It may be a bit too soon to bring an 18 year old up. Zayde Wisdom needs to learn how to play the pro game first. Rushing him could set back his progress. He will benefit playing in the AHL for the rest of the season. Come playoff time, maybe he can be added to the roster and given a quick look on the 3rd or 4th line. A taste of the NHL might be good, but he is still a raw young player. Let’s see what happens. Gregg L. Bucks County Pa