This is my favorite part of the hockey season!!! Every team has a chance to win the cup and we have a full season of games this year!!! I think that part of what hurt the Flyers last year was not playing a full 80+ game schedule. I think that the forward corps of the Flyers is probably the area of the roster where there is the least concern moving forward.
The Key players this year: I don't see how Giroux doesn't improve from last year, and the same can be said for Scottie. Lecavalier will be a huge addition for this team, I think that people will love this signing after a few games. He is the sniper that this team has needed for a little while now, and he will be able to provide some more leadership in the locker room. Both Brayden Schenn and Sean Couturier HAVE to play much better then last year. One of the only ways for this team to get better is for these two young men to show some growth on the ice.
Youngsters on the rise: I really think that Laughton has a chance to be a really big contributor this year. I watched him in the rookie game earlier this week and he was the leader on the ice. There is no more hesitation when it comes to the decision to shoot or pass. Matt Read is going to have a huge this year too. This is one of those guys that I can't explain, but I just have a good feeling about.
Names that you shouldn't be surprised to see this year: Remember this name, because in the next two years he could be a very big player for the Flyers. Taylor Leier. This kid is fast, has fantastic control of the puck, and he can really shoot the puck.
Overall Evaluation: This team has the potential to have a top five offense this year, and the power play should really play well this year. In all reality I think that this team will settle in the top seven range. I am sure that Homer will make a move during the season to bring in yet another vet, instead of thinking about the future. I am pleased overall with how the lines will be formed. The ball is in Lavy's court and I wonder how he is going to shuffle the lines together.
The point has been made that Simmons is not on this list, and neither is Jakub. The reason for that is because they have both been very consistent players, and I expect them to have yet another great season.
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