After A Month Of Hockey Are The Flyers Better Than Expected?
The underlying question returns when it comes to the identity of the Philadelphia Flyers. After a month of hockey, are the Flyers better than expected? Despite not being able to win games against the Dallas Stars and Las Vegas Golden Knights earlier in the month, the team did put up a big fight. The Flyers pushing the contest against Dallas to overtime was a testament to a team considered one of the worst in the league heading into the season. This offseason, Philadelphia did make moves, but none of which could be “team-changing.”
Although the Flyers can battle with the best of the west, unfortunately, when it came to the Anaheim Ducks, Philadelphia struggled tremendously. This is why there is confusion surrounding the state of the Flyers. How are they battling aggressively against the better teams but falling short against the worst teams? After a month of hockey, are the Flyers better than expected?
Despite the confusion, head coach John Tortorella said it best when stating that the Flyers’ success is more of a treat since they had low exceptions with the current rebuild. Unfortunately, the 2024 NHL entry draft will not be as strong as the free agency market. This is beneficial for Philadelphia if they do continue to gain more points than expected, as it can draw in more talent. The Flyers also have trade value with forwards Travis Konecny, Owen Tippett, and Garnet Hathaway. Although the March 8th trade deadline is a while away, it’s not too soon to think about players that could benefit the orange and black.
THE BUFFALO CONTEST DREW CONCERN
In the contest against Buffalo, Carter Hart left the ice only playing 10 minutes. Backup goalie Samuel Ersson took over. While the injury is unknown, it is considered a mid-body injury.
Carter Hart with a mid-body injury. He will not return tonight.
— Haley Taylor Simon (@Haleytsimon) November 2, 2023
While Hart has been solid in the net, the possibility that he could be out with a tough slate of games approaching does put the pressure on backup goalie Ersson. After the match, Ersson said, “I just want to win.” This has not been the best start for Ersson, as he struggled in net against the Anaheim Ducks this past weekend.
The powerplay is struggling. Ironically, the Flyers play better short-handed rather than having the one-person advantage. Cam Atkinson spoke on the powerplay, “I think just execution. We have all the best players out there. We must bear down and realize it’s an honor and privilege to be out there. You have to try harder, execute, and shoot the puck.”
Tortorella touched on the power play as well: “The decision-making needs to be simplified. They are being able to shoot the puck and look for rebounds. There are shots to be taken. I watched Tippett. He’s slopping around, even Bobby Brink. We need to simplify that and generate more to the net. I believe other things will open up for other plays after that.”
“What we need to do is stay with it. That’s the most important thing. Don’t over think and just keep trying to play the right way.”
— Philadelphia Flyers (@NHLFlyers) November 2, 2023
Hear from Flyers Head Coach John Tortorella following Wednesday’s 5-2 loss to Buffalo. #BUFvsPHI pic.twitter.com/iuEJdboFch
Rocky Thompson is the Flyers’ assistant coach who coaches the power play. With the Flyers only accumulating four goals so far with the power play, but yet they have four goals being short-handed, it does draw concerns. This has been an underlying issue for the past couple of seasons, which the Flyers need to change quickly. All in all, after a month of hockey, the Flyers are better than expected in some ways, but all together, this is the same team.
9 Things You Need To Know Before Going To A Philadelphia Flyers Game
Who Will They Be Playing?
It’s not always a no-brainer. You’ll have your Flyers gear on, but make sure a jacket, a hat, or any other clothes you wear don’t rep the visiting colors. Don’t risk getting stuck wearing yellow if it’s a matchup against the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Where Is A Good Place To Park?
Eight parking lots surround the Wells Fargo Center. Availability changes depending on your arrival time, but the F, E, and D lots between Xfinity Live and the Wells Fargo Center are typically the easiest to access. The arena lots no longer accept cash.
If you’d rather take public transportation to the game, NRG Station is the terminal stop on the Broad Street Line (Orange Line). It lets riders out at Broad Street and Pattison Avenue, just a quick walk from the Wells Fargo Center.
What Time Can You Get In?
The entrances typically open 1.5 hours before most home games. Concession stands and merchandise locations around the main concourse typically open at the same time. The Flyers don’t allow reentry.
How Will The Fan Screening Process Work?
Limit what you bring into the stadium to make the screening process simpler. Fans cannot bring any outside food and beverage items inside. The Flyers have made improvements to keep lines at the stadium entrance moving quickly.
How Do You Access Your Tickets?
Digital access has become the easiest way to enter the arena, and the Wells Fargo Center offers digital options through its official box office. The Ticket Transfer app has also made it easier for people to exchange tickets before the game.
What Time Does The Game Begin?
Weeknight games begin at 7 p.m. most of the time. However, the Flyers play some afternoon games at home. Plus, any nationally televised games can change the typical schedule. Make sure you check before heading to the game.
Is There Anything Special Happening?
The Flyers have plenty of great giveaways lined up for the 2023-24 season. The list this season includes a t-shirt, a Flyers beer stein, and Gritty earmuffs, They also put their alumni on full display as well as any professional sports team, so you could run into a famous Flyer from the past. Check their promotional calendar for all upcoming events.
Where Are the Best Places To Go After the Game?
If you’re looking for a night out after the game, head right over to Xfinity Live. The sports complex’s favorite bar offers specials after many games for fans who leave the arena. South Philly has plenty of other bars close to the stadium, including Chickie’s and Pete’s, and Philadium.
