The Philadelphia Flyers have a wealth of young talent, especially on defense. Last season, it was Shayne Gostisbehere, this season it’s Ivan Provorov’s turn. Could Philippe Myers be next on the horizon for the orange and black?
Myers was not drafted by an NHL team. In 2015 he went to camp with the Calgary Flames, but was not offered a contract. He then wound up in Philadelphia and the Flyers. The 6’5″, right handed shooting defenseman caught the Flyers eye. They wasted no time in offering Myers an entry level contract. Smart move.
Unfortunately for Myers, the 2016-17 has been one of ups and downs. He has battled concussions, but his on ice play has been nothing short of stellar. As a result, he was chosen to play for Canada at the World Junior Championships. Myers was playing top pairing minutes being partnered with Ottawa Senators prospect, Thomas Chabot. Myers chipped in with three assists in four games before suffering a concussion. He anchors the defense for the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies of the QMJHL where he has 22 points in 25 games this season.
TSN’s Bob McKenzie tweeted in early January “Based on what I saw at WJC, Phillipe Myers looks NHL ready, or close to it.”
TSN Director of Scouting Craig Button ranked Myers the 10th best player not playing in the NHL.
The accolades continue for Myers. He is young, he is mobile, smart and highly skilled. At 6’5, he definitely has the size..and that’s a dangerous combination for opponents. The Flyers future defense looks bright led by Gostisbehere and Provorov. Now add Myers to that list as the team looks to build a resurgent unit moving forward, that will prove problematic for the rest of the league, for years to come.
Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
