There are still a handful of players that still remain in the free agency market that could catch the eyes of Flyers’ General Manager Chuck Fletcher. The Flyers could sure use a sniper, but that will put them over the top cap wise, so it appears unlikely at this time. Nonetheless, there are players like sharp shooters such as Anthony Duclair and Mike Hoffman still on the market, to pain in the arse type players like Corey Perry and Matt Martin. Perry more than likely wants to stay on the West coast, so this article will focus on Martin.
The 31-year-old in Martin wants to re-sign in Long Island to remain with the New York Islanders. With the Islanders like most teams in the NHL against the cap ($3.9 million of cap space remains according to Capfriendly), and with Mathew Barzal still left to re-sign. This may come off as a fantasy for Martin to return to the Islanders. If I’m Fletcher I would really consider throwing $1.5 million at Martin, with a take it or leave it type offer. Martin made $2.5 million last season, maybe Fletcher could sign him to a one-year $1.5-2 million deal. The Flyers would be left with approximately $3.2 million to re-sign a young blueliner in Philippe Myers if Martin accepted this offer.
Martin is a pest, and one player that every fan hates but would love to have him on your team. He can pot some big goals, but he is good with his craft of getting under the opponents skin. The Flyers could use a player that is relentless, annoying, and well can make some nice plays.
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In a previous article, I wrote about him being an under the radar signing that Chuck Fletcher could make if he came cheap enough. How many times have you watched Tom Wilson obliterate a Flyer, and you say to yourself I wish someone would go after him or stand up for themselves. This has been happening far too often, especially in the playoffs where some skilled Flyers were pushed off the puck against the Montreal Canadiens and the New York Islanders.
The 31-year-old in Martin would add some physicality and toughness to the Flyers lineup. Gone would be the days that Scott Laughton and Travis Konecny would be in the box for five minutes for fighting. Enter Martin, a player that would stick up for any one of his teammates without hesitation.
Regardless of what some may think. The physicality aspect of the game takes a toll on players, especially in a long grueling seven game playoff series. The Flyers at the moment have to rely upon Scott Laughton, Travis Konecny, and Nicolas Aubé-Kubel for some physicality. It would be unfair to leave this up to a young prospect like Wade Allison (If he plays for the big club), as he needs to get acclimated to the NHL before he can be relied upon for these services on a nightly basis. Do the right thing Chuck and offer Martin a contract. The worse he can say is no.
Considering how it went last season in case of Chris Steward, i would be opposed to bring in a only a tough guy, who otherwise can not stay on our line-up from skill point of view! I think we are better hoping that Wade Allison or Isaac Rattcliffe takes that role sooner rather than later!