Zayde Wisdom indeed turned his season around in the second half with the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, showing significant growth that carried into the 2025 Calder Cup Playoffs.
After a slow start to the 2024-25 AHL season, where he faced inconsistency and was even a healthy scratch early on, Wisdom found his stride, becoming one of the Phantoms’ most reliable players. His regular-season stats reflect this surge: in 68 games, he posted a career-high 32 points (13 goals, 19 assists), including two shorthanded goals, three game-winners, and a +10 rating, tying for the team lead in plus-minus. His first professional hat trick on January 30, 2025, against Bridgeport was a highlight, showcasing his offensive spark.
In the playoffs, Wisdom’s impact has been undeniable. He tallied three points (three goals) in five games, with a standout performance in Game 2 of the Atlantic Division Semifinals against the Hershey Bears on May 2, 2025. Wisdom scored two shorthanded goals in the third period, including the game-winner, leading the Phantoms to a 3-1 victory and tying the series at 1-1. This made him the first Phantoms player to score two shorthanded goals in a single postseason game. His +6 playoff rating was among the AHL’s best, trailing only one player league-wide. Wisdom’s role on the top line with Olle Lycksell and Jacob Gaucher, combined with his penalty-kill contributions, highlighted his all-around game.
His turnaround was fueled by a renewed commitment after a tough 2023-24 season, where he managed just three points in 49 games. Wisdom’s Summer training with teammate Elliot Desnoyers in Montreal and a bold promise to coach Ian Laperrière to secure a lineup spot paid off. Laperrière noted Wisdom’s leadership and work ethic, calling him a player who “walks the walk.”
This resurgence has rekindled hope for his future with the Flyers, positioning him as a potential bottom-six NHL forward known for grit and energy. Despite the Phantoms’ 6-4 loss in Game 4 to Hershey on May 9, 2025, Wisdom’s goal in that game underscored his continued playoff presence.
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