Photo Credit: Our very own Michael Reaves
Travis Sanheim has finally evolved into a number one defenseman, paired alongside Cam York until his recent injury. For his efforts, Sanheim has started the season out strong. He may not be putting points up on the board, but he’s playing very well defensively. Sanheim there’s also skating very well, which is a great sign.
He logs big minutes, and especially right now with the recent injury rash on the blue line. Sanheim registered 30:23 of ice time this past Monday night against the San Jose Sharks. Of course, that led all skaters in ice time, and it was his second consecutive back to back to game with 30+ minutes of ice time.
Sanheim came to camp in great shape. He looks well conditioned, calm, poised, and has not made many mistakes. Flyers’ General Manager Danny Briere said that Sanheim came into camp in great shape, and was one of the most fittest players in that locker room. Flyers’ Head Coach John Tortorella says that Sanheim has taken his game to a whole different level:
“He’s bringing It on the ice One thing he has stepped up in leadership. The way he’s carried himself in all facets, on and off the ice, he’s turned into that,” Tortorella says.
Tortorella continues, “He’s got a good engine, and I think he’s brought his game to another level.”
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The sky is the limit for Sanheim, as expectations of consistency will be surrounding him throughout the course of the year, “I’m here today. There’s a reason I signed here for eight years. I want to be in Philadelphia, I’m excited. I like the group that we have,” Sanheim said last season.
Tyson Foerster’s struggles
There is no denying that Tyson Foerster is struggling offensively, much like he did for the first 20 games last season. Foerster had only netted two goals and one assist through 15 games this season.
The main problem with Foerster this season is his play, defensively, is lacking a bit. Flyers’ Head Coach John Tortorella alluded to that yesterday following practice:
“It’s a concern,” Tortorella says. “I think the last game was one of his best games with being hard on the puck. It’s been a different season for him (Than last year), and it’s a concern.”
Tortorella continues, “It’s not like it was like last year, there has to be more to it.”
Last season, Foerster was able to stay in the lineup, due to great play at both ends of the ice. Not so much this season, as at times he loses his man, coupled with the fact he’s struggling offensively. It’s tough to make a case for him not to receive a few games worth of benchings.
Hopefully, Foerster comes out, and plays well. Foerster is a key cog to the lineup.
