Photo Credit: Our very own Rob Windfelder
Samuel Ersson struggled early last season with momentum saves, when used as a backup netminder, that would eventually turn the page on the game in the Flyers favor. However, when he took over the helm as a number one netminder, following the departure of Carter Hart Ersson became a stone wall for the most part. Sure he struggled a bit down the stretch, in large part due to workload, however, he managed to still put forth a good season.
Flyers’ Head Coach John Tortorella noticed his increased workload down the stretch, and he managed to use him more effectively over the course of the past month of the season. Ersson was pretty impressive with his rebound control, and he made timely saves most notably against the Toronto Maple Leafs. He moves laterally from post to post well, and he also donned a new goalie mask in the same token.
For his efforts, Ersson had a good year last year. So much so, he owns the 19th best GAA in Flyers history with a 2.87. That’s actually better than Carter Hart’s career 2.94 GAA as a Flyer.
Fast forward to pre-season, where he pitched a 36 save shutout in his pre-season debut as a number one netminder. He was spectacular for the Flyers just like you was last year at times. Ersson made timely saves after being peppered trying to keep his team in it early, and also key saves in big moments to keep the Flyers engines going. For his efforts, Ersson managed to save 25 shots through two periods of play last night. Matvei Michkov was the star of the game after netting one goal and one assist, but Ersson looks like the netminder he was when he took over for Carter Hart last season.
“It’s always nice to have a good game. I’m taking it step by step, keep building. It was nice to see a full 60 minutes,” Samuel Ersson said following the game.
Ersson continues, “Last year was last year, I think I stopped thinking about that a couple months ago. Obviously, it’s a new year, very excited as a as a team.”
I’m really poised to see how Ersson fares this season as the number one netminder. He knows what to expect, and Ersson now had a full offseason to prepare for the rigors ahead.
“It’s not really a surprise. He’s looked good throughout camp, it’s nice to see him get some shots there,” Owen Tippett said of Ersson.
Check out our Flyers Nitty Gritty Store
