Philadelphia Flyers Begin Training Camp with Focus on Young Defensemen

What's Happening?

The Philadelphia Flyers are starting their training camp with a focus on several key players, including Emil Andrae, a young defenseman who played 42 games last season. Despite modest scoring numbers, Andrae led all Flyers defensemen in Corsi For and Expected Goals For percentages, indicating his potential as a strong NHL defender. The Flyers are also considering Helge Grans, another young Swedish defenseman, who offers a significant size advantage over Andrae. The team is evaluating these players as they prepare for the upcoming season, with competition for roster spots intensifying.

Why It's Important?

The Flyers' focus on young defensemen like Andrae and Grans highlights their strategy to strengthen their defensive lineup. Andrae's performance metrics suggest he could be a valuable asset, despite concerns about his size. Grans' physical presence offers a different advantage, potentially influencing the team's decision-making. The development of these players is crucial for the Flyers as they aim to improve their overall performance and address gaps in their defensive strategy. Success in training camp could lead to significant roles for these players in the regular season.

What's Next?

As training camp progresses, the Flyers will continue to assess the performance of Andrae, Grans, and other players vying for roster spots. The team's decisions will be influenced by their preseason performances and the overall needs of the roster. The Flyers are also dealing with the potential absence of Rasmus Ristolainen due to injury, which could impact their defensive lineup. The outcome of training camp will determine the final roster and set the stage for the Flyers' strategy in the upcoming NHL season.