The Philadelphia Flyers' offensive woes have become a cause for concern, especially after their recent struggles against the Toronto Maple Leafs and Calgary Flames. With only three goals scored across those games, the team's lack of penetration and presence in the 'dirty areas' has been highlighted as a key issue.
Flyers sources have indicated that the team's forwards need to be more willing to battle for those 'ugly' goals, reminiscent of players like Scott Hartnell and Wayne Simmonds. While the current forward group is considered more balanced, there's a clear need for players who aren't afraid to get physical and create scoring chances from the front of the net.
The Future of Owen Tippett: A Polarizing Presence?
Tippett, the 26-year-old winger, has had a hot and cold start to the season. Despite leading the team in goals with five, his recent form has been a cause for debate within the organization. His inconsistent play, characterized by peaks and valleys, has left some questioning his long-term fit with the Flyers.
"Tippett's game has become tiresome for some within the organization," a source revealed. "While he's a talented player, the team feels they may not have the right complementary players for his style."
And here's where it gets controversial...
Tippett's playing style seems to suggest he would thrive with a playmaker who can slow the game down and set him up with stretch passes. While Trevor Zegras possesses some of these qualities, the Flyers' front office is divided on his ideal position. Some believe Zegras has performed better as a center, but his faceoff struggles have given head coach Rick Tocchet pause.
So, who could be the perfect fit for Tippett? Well, William Nylander of the Toronto Maple Leafs comes to mind. Could this spark a potential trade scenario?
According to team sources, there are internal discussions about Tippett's long-term role with the Flyers. This isn't a new concern, as former head coach John Tortorella also struggled to find the right fit for Tippett last season.
The Flyers' abundance of right-shooting wingers has led to Tippett and Tyson Foerster playing almost exclusively on the left side. Interestingly, Tippett has arguably performed better on the left wing, receiving consistent top power play time under Tocchet.
Tippett's name has been loosely linked to trade rumors this season, but the Flyers aren't actively shopping him. However, with Marc Bergevin of the Los Angeles Kings attending recent Flyers games, speculation is rife. While the Kings could be interested, the Flyers aren't keen on their available assets, sources say.
If the Flyers were to make a mid-season trade involving players like Konecny or Tippett, it would likely be focused on acquiring younger, NHL-ready players as they exit their rebuild phase.
The Flyers are currently treading water in the Eastern Conference, but their offensive struggles could lead to changes in the forward group if things don't improve soon.
And this is the part most people miss...
The Flyers' offensive issues go beyond individual players. It's a systemic problem that requires a collective effort to address. Will the team find a solution, or will we see some big moves to shake up the forward group?
What do you think? Should the Flyers stick with their current roster, or is it time for some bold trades? Let us know in the comments!
