Philadelphia Flyers: 5 biggest questions for the 2020-21 season
The Philadelphia Flyers are primed for another Stanley Cup run in 2021
Had the 2020 season not abruptly stopped and later re-started in the playoff bubble, the Philadelphia Flyers were among the favorites going into the Stanley Cup playoffs.
Philadelphia had won 9 of their last 10 games of the regular season, including three consecutive five-goal games against the Washington Capitals and New York Rangers.
Not too much has changed for the orange and black this offseason, with 10 of their top 11 scorers and both of their two goalies returning for head coach Alain Vigneault.
With the first puck drop of the 56-game regular season on Jan. 13, we’re taking a look at the Flyers’ biggest additions, subtractions, and questions for the 2021 season.
Notable Offseason Additions/Re-Signings
- Philippe Myers
- Erik Gustafsson
- Derrick Pouliot
- Justin Braun
- Robert Hagg
- Brian Elliott
- Nolan Patrick
The Flyers were strapped for cash and largely re-signed their young homegrown talent, particularly their restricted free agents, Phil Myers and Nolan Patrick.
General manager Chuck Fletcher did sign free agents Derrick Pouliot and Erik Gustafsson for blueline depth, which is crucial with the loss of Matt Niskanen. Gustafsson contributed 60 points for the Blackhawks two seasons ago but saw his scoring drop off last year.
Robert Hagg, Brian Elliott, and Justin Braun all signed contract extensions before hitting free agency.
Notable Offseason Subtractions
- Matt Niskanen
- Derek Grant
- Nate Thompson
- Tyler Pitlick
Losing Matt Niskanen was a big loss for the Flyers both on and off the ice. The veteran defenseman abruptly retired at 34-years-old after a 33 point season where he lined up with young defensive star Ivan Provorov.
The losses of Grant, Thompson, and Pitlick are also a hit to the Flyers’ depth on offense, which they hope to fill with young, highly-touted prospects going forward.