Flyers fans, the 2018 season was a headache to say the least. We saw heartbreak with Hart’s ankle injury, a new career high with Couturier (33 goals for the season), and some unbelievable shots by the one and only Claude Giroux.
Unfortunately, those ups and downs weren’t quite enough to take the team to the playoffs. With a total of only 82 points for the 2018-19 season, this has been the roughest season for the Orange and Clad since 2012, where they ended the season with only 49 points.
It’s time for a change. While many fans have voiced their disapproval of the $7.14M AAV contract with Kevin Hayes, we need to keep in mind that it’s part of a much bigger plan. The Flyers’ last Stanley Cup win was back in 1975, with the Broad Street Bullies amassing 113 points during the regular season.
Bobby Clarke may no longer be playing at center and Bernie Parent in goal, but the Flyers do have a number of players on the team who know the in’s and out’s of hockey- and leave it all out on the ice.
Philadelphia is “no longer developing the kids,” but instead, is focusing on being the best possible version of themselves in hopes that it will be enough to lead them to another Stanley Cup victory. ‘Winning now’ if you will.
So why wouldn’t the Kevin Hayes move make sense? Regardless of how big his contract is, it’s all about winning from here on out and Hayes brings the experience, leadership, and efficiency to build around for years to come.
In response to how he felt about the Flyers giving up a draft pick for him, Hayes stated “I think it was a good fit for both sides. What I bring to the table and what they had to offer. It was an easy decision ultimately.”
This is the Flyers third major change to the roster this offseason, following on from the trade for Justin Braun. Add those players with Van Riemsdyk, Gostisbehere, and Konecny, and all of a sudden, it’s not hard to see why the sudden spike in aggressive moves has become a priority. With a redesigned blue line and a hunger for victory, Philadelphia fans should be nothing short of excited for what this season has to offer.
Mandatory Credit: James Carey Lauder-USA TODAY Sports
