2021-2022 Season Projections
For all my season previews, we’ll be utilizing my 2021-2022 team and player projections. You can find much more background on these models here, along with more on assessing value of contracts here. Today, we’ll preview the Philadelphia Flyers.
2021 Offseason
The Flyers had a relatively busy offseason, particularly on the trade front. Their defense has been significantly overhauled, with Rasmus Ristolainen (trade), Keith Yandle (FA) and Ryan Ellis (trade) heading to Philadelphia this season. The forward group remains largely the same as last season, but the Flyers did make a significant trade there also, acquiring Cam Atkinson from the Blue Jackets for Jacob Voracek.
2021-2022 Season Preview
Roster Strength
The Flyers forward group looks solid heading into the season, with all four lines looking like they can contribute. Although overhauled this offseason, the defense corps looks like a weak point with the top four just meeting the minimum benchmarks. Goaltending is also a concern, where the starter’s role could be up for grabs.
Forwards
The Flyers top six looks strong, lead by veterans Claude Giroux and Sean Couturier. Newly acquired Atkinson looks like a good fit for the second line. The bottom six is relatively strong as well, with a few options that can slide into the top six if circumstances require.
While the Flyers top six are well suited to their roles, the Flyers are generally getting worse than league median value for their top forwards. The only new addition to the group this offseason, Cam Atkinson, projects similarly to the rest of the group.
Defensemen
The Flyers’ defensive overhaul this offseason was a mixed bag. Ryan Ellis is an elite defenseman and will likely be the top defender in Philadelphia this season and he comes with a reasonable contract. Rasmus Ristolainen comes over from Buffalo and projects like a borderline 6th/7th defenseman, however the projected value on his contract is atrocious. After Florida bought him out, the Flyers were able to sign Keith Yandle to a good value contract and he should fit well as a depth defenceman.
Goaltenders
Carter Hart struggled for the Flyers last season. He needs to return to prior form to give the Flyers improved goaltending and ensure he holds onto the starter’s job. Martin Jones struggled in San Jose for the past couple of seasons and will come to Philadelphia looking to regain his form.
Team Performance
The Flyers goaltending holds them back in the team projections. With neither goaltender’s projection up to starter’s standards, Philadelphia needs one of them to return to form this season. With poor goaltending and defensive numbers, the Flyers land at the bottom of the Metropolitan standings in the model.
2021-2022 In Season Updates
Make sure to subscribe and check back for updates to the 2021-2022 season projections throughout the season. Watch for updates and enhancements to the models, updated player projections using 2021-2022 season data, analysis of trades and injuries, and more.
