Philadelphia Flyers: 5 Under the radar preseason players to watch

1. Mike Vecchione

After signing as an undrafted free agent in 2017 and re-signing this past offseason, it seems like Mike Vecchione has gotten lost in the shuffle a bit. He was a dynamic, two-way player for Union in the NCAA prior to signing with the Flyers but was sent to the AHL last year.

Vecchione did have a cup of coffee with the team, playing in just two games and registering zero points at the end of the 2016-2017 season, but spent the majority of the season in the AHL. He’s seen NHL level play, something other prospects he’s battling with for a roster spot don’t have.

His play in the AHL was also very solid. Vecchione netted 40 points (17 goals, 23 assists) in 65 games for the Lehigh Valley Phantoms last season. He also played a big part in the Phantoms playoff run, scoring 7 points (3 goals, 4 assists) in 12 games of Calder Cup action. It’s worth noting that Vecchione played right-wing as well as the center-ice position last year with the Phantoms.

Vecchione’s more than likely battling for a fourth line spot come training camp. He may get a look at the 3C, but it’s likely the Flyers choose a player with a better offensive skill-set or more NHL experience to play the position. Whether he slots in at 4C if Scott Laughton gets promoted or nabs either of the wing spots, Vecchione would provide solid, two-way hockey on the Flyers fourth line.