This is not how the season was supposed to go for the Flyers. Most people would say last night’s game against the St. Louis Blues was a meaningless hockey game. However, for some players like Brian Elliott it was anything but meaningless. Not only was he showcasing himself for teams with free agency looming, but Elliott was also showcasing himself for a possible extension with a team that he has come to love in the Flyers. Unfortunately, the Flyers lost 7-3 to the St. Louis Blues, but none of the 4 goals scored again at Elliott were his fault. It’s not his fault his teammates came out flat.
Elliott has been a class act in his two years here in Philadelphia. Yes, he has had his fair share of injuries, but when healthy Elliott has definitely been an asset. For example, Elliott was 5-3-1 when he returned from a major groin injury on February 19, 2019. Carter Hart and Elliott were two major factors that the Flyers even had a shot at the playoffs late in the season. Moreover, for his career with the orange and black, Elliott owns a 34-22-8 record, 2.73 GAA, and a .910 Save Percentage. Not bad at all by any means. It doesn’t scream Vezina Trophy, but they are solid numbers.
It might not be a bad idea for the Flyers to resign Elliott to be a mentor for Hart next season. Elliott knows that Hart is the future, and he is comfortable with being the backup for the Flyers next season. He understands his role within the Flyers organization, and Elliott said last week after practice that he wants to play for the Flyers next season. Elliott has been through it all, and he could help the young Hart through some growing pains next season.
If this was indeed the last game for Elliott donning a Flyers sweater…Thank you. Thank you for giving your all for this club. It’s not easy for a player to return from two major injuries in two seasons, and be a a major reason why the Flyers even had a chance of sniffing the playoffs late in the season. The fans appreciate all you have given them in your two years as a Flyer.
