The Philadelphia Flyers motto is to remain patient and await the course. This is an uncommon practice in year’s past for the Flyers organization. However, Flyers fans are now beginning to see the transformation of a young Flyers team that is trying to stock up defensively for long-term success. Fans are hoping it pays off within the next few years with a parade down Broad Street.
General Manager Ron Hextall is hoping that the defensive liabilities will become a thing of the past. With the likes of young defensive prospects such as Travis Sanheim, Philippe Myers, Samuel Morin, and Robert Hagg, could the Flyers be looking to stock the farm system with right-handed Defenseman? If they are, then a right-handed Defenseman from the USHL in Bode Wilde will be a first round target on draft day for the orange and black.
As Wilde states while on the cusp of being a top Defenseman for the draft, “It’s something that you try not to focus on too much while you’re still playing, but it’s definitely a super exciting feeling for me, my family, and friends.”
Wilde was born on January 24, 2000, in Montreal, QC, CAN. If the Flyers are looking to bolster their blue line in the future, then this young Canadian native might be the key to success. Wilde found himself playing for the USNDTP Juniors of the USHL for the 2016-17 season. He amassed 3 goals, and 3 assists for a total of 6 points in 34 games played. Moreover, Wilde continued his decent play for the US National U17 Team of the USDP in the same season amassing 8 goals, and 11 assists in for a total of 19 points in 56 games played. These numbers were very strong, and Wilde showed his improvement from the USHL. So who exactly is this young man?
“I’m a good skater, I control the puck well, and I have a good shot, but I’m going to spend the summer working on all that stuff in order to be as dominant as possible next year.”
This young carefree prospect in Wilde continued, “I’m one of the more easy going guys in the locker room before a game. I’m meticulous in my preparation but I like to have fun, I’m usually laughing with the guys until puck drop.”
The young USNDTP USHL Defenseman, Wilde has become quite a stud. In the 2017-18 season for USNDTP Juniors Team, he amassed 3 goals, 13 assists, and was a boom bostic +19. Wilde continued his success for the US National U18 Team by eclipsing 11 goals, and 25 assists for a total of 36 points in 53 games played. He shows time and time again how he has become a solid two way puck moving Defenseman. Wilde just focuses on getting stronger in the off-season.
“I know what I’m walking into next year and I’m comfortable playing at that next level. In terms of preparation I’m just going to work hard in the gym this year to get stronger and be ready to compete against older guys.”
If a person has seen Wilde play in the USHL, then one would instantly notice his smooth skating ability. Wilde has gotten better in every facet of the game. Moreover, Wilde’s overall hockey IQ, and vision of the ice is impressive. There’s one special person that helped him along the way, and Wilde hasn’t forgotten that.
“A former coach and mentor of mine, Marcin Snita, really helped me come out of my shell as a player elevate my game over the past 6 years or so. I learned more than just how to become a better hockey player from him, I learned some life lessons that will stick with me for a long time.”
Hopefully, Wilde will still be on the board when the Flyers are ready to make their selection with the St. Louis Blues pick (14th at the moment). Hextall has had great success at the draft with his deep knowledge of each individual player. Remember Wilde’s name as he says, “I would just say that no matter where I get drafted I will be absolutely ecstatic to be a part of that organization, and that I look forward to putting on that jersey and performing in front of all the incredible fans.”
Wilde continued his last message to the fans of Philadelphia, “They can expect a defenseman who is suited for Philly style hockey. I’m a big, mobile, offensive defenseman who likes to get involved in the rush and make plays all over the ice. My game has a lot of the speed, skill, and toughness that Philly teams have been known for.”
Mandatory Photo Credit: Rena Laverty (Via The Draft Analyst)
