Kevin Hayes and Sean Couturier met with the media this afternoon at the Philadelphia Flyers Training Center in Voorhees, NJ. They were two playmaking forwards affected by injuries during 2021-2022. Hayes played in 48 games, while Couturier only played in 29.
Both forwards play pivotal roles down the middle of the Flyers’ lineup. If Philadelphia is to rebound after their second worst season in franchise history, Hayes and Couturier must become the driving forces on offense during 2022-2023.
Here are five takeaways from today’s sessions with the media:
Couturier is cleared to compete
After undergoing season-ending back surgery in February, Couturier will be ready for the start of training camp.
“When I got back two weeks ago, I went to the doctors and everything seems good.”
Sean Couturier; 9/12/22
Couturier is looking ahead to 2022-2023, absolutely ready to put last season far behind.
Couturier believes the team can prove doubters wrong
It is easy to underestimate the Flyers ahead of the 2022-2023 season. Philadelphia did not make an attempt at the Johnny Gaudreau sweepstakes during free agency, and team management has received their criticism. Nonetheless, Couturier believes the team can work together and prove critics wrong.
“We don’t seem to have on paper that big superstar or big name guy, but as a team we can come together and do some damage and prove everyone wrong.”
Sean Couturier; 9/12/22
Hayes feels “way better”
Hayes had multiple surgeries during 2021-2022. Playing in only 48 games, Hayes scored 31pts (10G, 21A.) He played his best hockey as he recovered towards the end of the season.
“I feel way better. I think it was obvious to anyone who knows the game, that when I was trying to come back, I wasn’t fully one hundred percent. I think I was only one hundred percent of what I had in that time.”
Kevin Hayes; 9/12/22
Hayes reads the room
Tortorella has mentioned multiple times that he has concerns about the Flyers’ locker room. Accountability will be at the forefront of Tortorella’s stance in Philadelphia.
“Last year was embarrassing for our group, we weren’t very good at all. If we want to change the culture, Torts is the correct guy to have. Torts will hold all players that make this team accountable.”
Kevin Hayes; 9/12/22
Hayes excited for a fresh start
The 2021-2022 Flyers failed all expectations. The team might’ve fought for a playoff spot in a stacked Metropolitan division, but no one accounted for Murphy’s Law.
Preparing for 2022-2023, Hayes is excited about a fresh start.
“Every new season is exciting. I think when you have such a bad year like we did last year, it just adds to it. If you’re not excited, it’s probably not the spot for you.”
Kevin Hayes; 9/12/2022
(Photo Credit: Alex McIntyre)
