Six of the last ten seasons, the Philadelphia Flyers have made the playoffs. As of late, the Flyers seem to make the post-season every other year. Last year, Philadelphia was on the outside looking in. With Alain Vigneault at the helm, the Flyers are strong, young, and ready to make a real push. “Be a f***ing Flyer” are the words that resonated with the players, and now it’s time to cash in on that ticket.
Over the last seven seasons, the Philadelphia Flyers have been in and out of the playoffs every other year. This 2020 season marks ten years since the Flyers were in the Stanley Cup Finals against the Chicago Blackhawks. If you believe in superstitions, the stars could align, ironically beginning this season with a win against the Blackhawks in Prague. On 97.5 The Fanatic, Alain Vigneault was a guest on the 97.5 Morning Show with Marc Farzetta. One thing that was apparent at the end of his time on the radio show is that Vigneault believes this Philadelphia team is a playoff team.
“Talent has no age” is what Alain Vigneault said back on April 18th, 2019. That’s apparent as there are eight players on the Philadelphia Flyers who were born in 1996 or later. Vigneault made it known that it isn’t just on the blossoming youth, but the accountability stands on the veterans. “For the Flyers to be successful this year, we need Claude and Jake to be great role models and to perform.” While Flyers fans are happy with the recent play of Claude Giroux and the youth on the promising offense, the current wish is for a resurgence from Jakub Voracek.
Alain Vigneault recognizes the strength of the Philadelphia Flyers as a good coach should. The daunting TLC Line of Travis Konecny, Oskar Lindblom, and Sean Couturier can dazzle the opposition. “Those guys have stepped into those roles because he’s earned it,” Vigneault said of Konecny. The extra work Konecny put into his preparation for this season didn’t go unnoticed. “He plays a 200-foot game and he’s improved some of his puck decision and been a real productive player for us.”
In all, Alain Vigneault has the same feeling that the Flyers faithful can’t help but feel. Meaningful hockey may be on its way back to Philadelphia in April 2020. The Flyers have two goaltenders that compliment a high octane attack that has bested good opponents this season. “Oh, we’re a playoff team. There’s no doubt in my mind.” Tell ’em, Vigneault! “We’re gonna get in and then anything is possible.”
Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports
