According to an official release from the Philadelphia Flyers, forward Simon Gagne is very questionable for Tuesday’s game in Washington due to a lower body injury.  The good news is —  it’s not his groin.

As it stands now, center Blair Betts is set to return off the IR on Tuesday, moving either Darroll Powe or Mika Pyorala to a top-3 line to replace Gagne.

More injury is the last thing Gagne needs.  After missing most of the preseason with a groin injury suffered in Team Canada’s conditioning camp, the 29-year-old winger has not been the same. Scoring 34 goals last year for the Flyers, Gagne has just one goal and four assists in nine games.

But it isn’t his statistics that are the issue — it’s his ice presence.

Gagne has noticeably floated aimlessly around the ice and has purposely not taken contact, to the point where many speculated a lingering groin problem.

Tonight the Wachovia Center in Philadelphia will pay host to one of the greatest rivalries in sports, the Philadelphia Flyers will host the Pittsburgh Penguins in their first match up of the season.

The rivalry has always been alive, but was sitting dormant for a couple years as the Flyers found great rivalries with the likes of the Devils and Rangers. Once Sidney Crosby put on a Penguins jersey the rivalry erupted to what it is today.

You can point point the Crosby’s first game in Philly on November 5, 2005. Derian Hatcher made it his goal of the game to end Crosby however he could. This included a scene where Hatcher literally drug Crosby across the ice with his stick. In another scene, Crosby took it upon himself to facewash Peter “The Great” Forsberg. Never a good thing to do when trying to earn respect.

From that day the rivalry has been quicky escalating. I have been to multiple games where the Penguins have entered my home of the Wachovia Center, and I can tell you, I am getting goosebumps right now thinking about it. I have left all of these games with pounding headaches from myself, and everyone around me, screaming so loudly.

Nobody on this earth hates Crosby more than Philly fans. There is booing everytime he touches the puck. “Crosby Sucks!” chants will fill the building. There will also be chants that frankly, I cannot even write in this blog because I would like to keep it PG.

One of the best Flyers-Penguins match-ups I’ve been to was on December 11, 2007. This game included two hat tricks by Joffrey Lupul and R.J. Umberger. The Flyers won the game 8-2. The last 10 or so minutes of the game, Crosby did not play a single shift. Michael Therrien was trying to rest his star player and save him from the tough way the Flyers were playing. Flyers fans were not having any of this. Chants of, “We want Crosby!” filled the building.

Another rivalry to look at tonight is the more personal rivalry between Crosby and Mike Richards. Both young captains are likely to be seen on each others case all night.

The last two post seasons the Flyers have been put out of the playoffs by the Pittsburgh Penguins. The Flyers know they have something to prove and to fight for, especially after being kicked out of the playoffs in the first series last year. The Flyers have started their season 3-0. The Penguins are currently 2-1, the loss coming last night against the Phoenix Coyotes.

That’s right, the Stanley Cup Champion Penguins lost to the ownerless Coyotes. Furthermore, not only did they lose, they were shut out with a final score of 3-0. Expect the Penguins to come into this game with a lot of attitude and determination.

We already know Chris Pronger is ready for Crosby. From day one of being a Flyers, at his press conference, he has already said he plans on being very tough on Crosby. This obviously won the hearts of Flyers fans.

With Blair Betts out and James van Riemsdyk questionable, Riley Cote and Arron Asham may see their first ice time of the season tonight. Have these two tough guys in for this game is exactly what the doctor ordered.

This game will be a grudge match from beginning to end. I would recommend it to any and all hockey fans. GO FLYERS!

If I were to ever get a heart attack in a non-playoff game, last nights game would have been it. Both teams came out, to this nationally televised game,  knowing it would be a tough one.

The first period went by scoreless. The second period would be completely opposite.  Mike Richards scored a minute and a half into the period to give the Flyers a 1-0 lead. This lead would not last long with a goal by Alexander Ovechkin a minute later. There would be 5 more goals scored in the period. These were scored by Kimmo Timonen,  Ovechkin, and Alexander Semin respectively. Richards scored two more in the period getting the first hat trick in Flyers home opener history. This brought 19,567 fans to their seat, as the Wachovia Center erupted.

The Flyers took their lead into the third and kept it until 8:18 into the third Semin scored to tie up the game. Brendan Morrison scored  little over a minute later to give the Capitals a 5-4 lead. In the last 5 minutes of the game the Scott Hartnell scored to tie up the game. A scary moment came in the the last 50 seconds of the game when the Flyers were issued a hooking penalty.

The game went into overtime. Danny Briere, the birthday boy, scored the game winning goal at the 3:52 mark.

Loose Pucks: JVR passed a baseline test today but is likely to sit out Thursday against the penguins… Blair Betts be out for at least a month with a dislocated should, sustained after falling awkwardly after a faceoff…  Riley Cote and Arron Asham, who have been scratched, maybe make their season debut this Thursday… The Flyers are inviting all fans to come early to the game on Thursday to watch the Phillies-Rockies game… Danny Syvret practiced as a Winger today instead of Defense.

Bad news for the Penguins on Thursday — Arron Asham has something to prove.

The rough-and-tough Asham, who scored eight goals, 12 assists and 155 penalty minutes in 78 games last season, will make his 2009-10 season debut on Thursday and is expected to be on the third line aside Claude Giroux and Darroll Powe.

“I’m hoping to stay in the lineup for the rest of the year,” said a very serious Asham, who was scratched for the team’s first three games. “I’ll get my chance, I’ll work hard and keep my spot.  I’m definitely not going to give it up easily.”

Asham was an effective player for the Flyers last season, chipping in offensively as well as adding some serious toughness.  Not always considered a fighter, Asham is very physical when he wants to be and wins a good majority of the bouts he takes.  A player like Asham with a chip on his shoulder is not going to be a fun opponent.

The 31-year old, 10-year NHL veteran is just part of the influx of toughness the Flyers will activate against the Penguins.  Enforcer Riley Cote will see his first action of the season replacing injured Blair Betts.  The new fourth line is expected to also feature Dan Carcillo and Ian Laperriere and should be nicknamed “Line of the Apocalypse.”

Tonight the Philadelphia Flyers took on the Carolina Hurricanes in their first game of the 2009-2010 season. The game started out pretty slow with no goals scored in the first period, despite the fact that the Flyers had 15 shots on goal. There were many penalties taken by both teams. A fight broke out between Dan Carcillo and Tim Gleason a little after the half way point of the first. Another highlight was an excellent hit by Scott Hartnell on former Flyer, Andrew Alberts.

The Flyers came out quick in the second period scoring two goals within the first minute of the period. The first was notched by Jeff Carter, assists by Danny Briere and Scott Hartnell. The second was scored by Mike Richards. Simon Gagne had an assist, as did James van Riemsdyk, notching his first NHL career point.

Ray Emery had a very solid third period and stopped 12 shots. Keeping the Canes scoreless in the period, and the game. Emery had a total of 28 saves in the game. Emery was a big question coming into this season, and if he can keep up for the whole season the way he played tonight, it will greatly help the team go far this season.

Starting out the season with a win was very good for the Flyers and will definitely help for when they play the Devils tomorrow.

Loose Pucks: Alternate captains will be Simon Gagne and Kimmo Timonen at home games. Jeff Carter and Chris Pronger will where the A at away games. If any of these players are scratched, Danny Briere will where the A…. Riley Cote, Arron Asham, and Marc-Andre Bourdon were scratched in this game…. Flyers have already landed in New Jersey for the game tomorrow. Only the scratched players will skate tomorrow morning.

New Flyers Goalie - Ray Emery - Yong Kim / Staff Photographer (Daily News/Inquirer)

There is nothing better than the start of hockey season.  The Flyers face off tonight against the Carolina Hurricanes to start their season.  As discussed many times, the Flyers made a flurry of trades and moves designed to bolster their team.  In fact, some major hockey publications are selecting the Flyers as the eventual Stanley Cup champions.  I wouldn’t go that far, yet.  We haven’t seen them play, nor have we seen these Flyers develop an always win mentality.  I hope it pans out, but I think there are many variables.

The goalie situation in Philadelphia has not been stable since Ron Hextall manned the pipes.  This year, the Flyers start the year with Ray Emery and Brian Boucher as their primary goaltenders.  Both of their contracts are salary cap friendly and they both have a lot to prove.  Emery has had a tumultuous past with his former teammates and with the police.  He needs to have a great and behaved year to get his career and life back on track.  Flyers GM Paul Holmgren took a large chance handing the starting job over to Ray Emery.  If it works out – Holmgren is a genius.  If it doesn’t, we can all kiss this season goodbye.  One thing Emery has going for him is the defense.

I don’t think that you can find very many teams in the NHL with a better top four defensemen than the Flyers have.  With the addition of Chris Pronger to Kimmo Timonen, Braydon Coburn, Matt Carle and Ryan Parent, the Flyers defense should provide protection in front of the net, skills on the power play and provide some offensive puck movement.  The offense is going to greatly benefit from this backline unit.

With the core of the Flyers, Mike Richards, Jeff Carter and Scott Hartnell coming off career seasons, the sky is the limit.  A healthy Danny Briere added to youngsters James van Riemsdyk, Claude Giroux and Darrell Powe.  Simon Gagne, should he remain healthy, will get his standard allotment of points.  Interestingly, the Flyers added proven penalty killers and checkers, Blair Betts and Ian LaPierrere.  These two guys should take a significant burden off of Mike Richards as the lead penalty killer.  Richards then should be able focus on his excellent two way 5 on 5 play and leading the top power-play unit.  Even better, the Flyers are only going to have to dress one of Riley Cote, Aaron Asham or Dan Carcillo.  This will allow the Flyers to have more skilled players on the ice.  

Finally, the Flyers learned their salary lessons from a year-ago.  By putting Randy Jones on waivers and sending him to the Phantoms, they freed up his cap space allowing them to keep the young players on the roster and leave room for an emergency call-up or if they want to make a trade.  Also, it would prevent them from having to pull the Scottie Upshall trade of 2009-2010.

PhilaTude’s take on the Flyers season – they will win games, but I am still concerned about the intensity around this team and their ability to stay out of the penalty box.  If they can reduce the penalties and show a desire to play tough for wins, watch out, because this team has talent.

I apologize for my week-long hiatus, sometimes a sports fan actually has to do some work throughout the course of a college semester.  Regardless, I am back and ready to give all the loyal Philly Phour readers the low-down on the Orange and Black for the 2009-2010 season.

Training Camp is all but over, and the Flyers’ roster is taking shape.  The season opener is this Friday, at the RBC Center in Carolina against the Hurricanes.  However, before we direct any attention to that game – or any other game for that matter – it’s necessary to look at the big picture.  Hence my season preview.  I’ve broken each skill position down into three categories: Forwards (Today, 9/28), Defensemen (Tues, 9/29), and Goaltenders (Weds, 9/30) (creative, I know).  In those categories, I will list four different sub-categories: Who’s Out, Who’s In, Who Will Shine, and Who To Keep An Eye On, with an overall preview after the four subcategories.  Ready? Good, ’cause here we go!

FORWARDS

Who’s Out: Mike Knuble (Washington Capitals), Joffrey Lupul (Anaheim Ducks)

Who’s In: Ian Laperriere (Free Agency), Mika Pyorala (Free Agency), James van Riemsdyk (Rookie)

Who Will Shine: Claude Giroux, Right Wing

Book it: Giroux will be a star in '09-'10

• To be completely honest, Giroux is one of many players that could be picked for this category.  After Jeff Carter’s campaign in ‘08-’09, it’s safe to say that there’s nowhere to go but up for the sniper, and players like Mike Richards, Danny Briere, and Simon Gagne all should have solid statistical years in the 2009-’10 season.  However, Giroux is perhaps the most important to a Flyers offensive equation that had 52 goals subtracted from it this past offseason with the departures of Knuble and Lupul.  The twenty-one year old Giroux showed flashes of his highly-publicized offensive prowess as the regular season wound down into the playoffs last year, and gained a large following in The City of Brotherly Love as a result.  In 42 regular season games with the Flyers, Giroux found the back of the net 9 times, to go with 18 helpers, giving him 27 points on the year.  Obviously, these stats won’t open anyone’s eyes, but this fact should: Claude Giroux was – hands down – the best player in a Flyers uniform during the first round series against Pittsburgh last season.  He tallied five points (2 G, 3 A) in the six game set, but his prowess extended far beyond his offensive production.  He mixed it up with the Penguins players, instigating them into stupid penalties, and working hard to create turnovers in the offensive zone.  However perhaps the best part about Giroux’s situation heading into this season is that his future is clear, as well as bright.  Last year, #28 came into camp not knowing if, or when, he’d even don a Flyers sweater in the upcoming season.  This year, there’s no worries as to his security on the squad – he is a definite lock.  Giroux was flip-flopped around a lot during Training Camp and the better part of pre-season, but I really believe that he will produce his best hockey this season as a line-mate of the flashy, speedy playmaker, Danny Briere.  Don’t be shocked to see Giroux fly on to the NHL’s radar in a big way in this upcoming season.  You heard it here first: a 40-45 goal season is NOT out of the question for this talented young gun.

Who to Keep An Eye On: James van Riemsdyk, Left Wing

'09-'10 = JVR's Time to Shine

• It’s 2009, which means it’s JVR’s time.  Whether he begins the season with the big club or not, he will be skating on the Wachovia Center ice at some point this season.  But after watching JVR look incredibly comfortable, and, dare I say, dominate, at times during the pre-season, it’s hard for one not to think his chances of cracking the Flyers’ line-up in the beginning of this year are high.  JVR likely will play alongside the combination of Mike Richards-Simon Gagne, or Jeff Carter-Scott Hartnell, which means that he will automatically be counted on to produce when he joins the Flyers, but, to his defense, those two combinations will definitely provide plenty of offensive opportunities.  JVR upset a lot of people in the Flyers’ brass when he decided to return for his Sophomore season at the University of New Hampshire instead of going pro, but it seems to have seasoned the forward quite a bit.  He is finally starting to fill into that 6′3” frame, weighing in at Training Camp at a solid 200 pounds, and being observed as looking very fit and in shape.  JVR won’t take this opportunity for granted, either.  He’s seen the success that the pick ahead of him in 2007, Patrick Kane, has had with the Chicago Blackhawks; if he hasn’t all he has to do is order a copy of NHL 2010, then he’ll realize the kid’s achievements thus far.  However, unlike Kane, JVR really used the college level to jump-start his professional career.  He’s played in some very rowdy environments as a member of the Hockey East conference with UNH, and he’s faced top-flight international competition as at two-time member of Team USA at the World Junior Championships.  To put it simply: JVR is one battle-tested SOB.  He’s faced adversity before, and he has shown he’s more than willing to stand up to the challenge.  His next task: succeeding at the NHL level as the most touted Flyer prospect this team’s seen in a long time.

THE PREVIEW

On paper, this Flyers team is as deep and talented as any other team the National Hockey League has to offer.  However, cue the old cliche: it’s all about the on-ice performance.  With that being said, it’s pretty apparent that this club will bring their A game to the rink each and every night this season.  Last year, a big issue was made about off-ice partying, which General Manager Paul Holmgren abruptly put an end to, effectively instituting a rule that sends players back on the road after a game, and not to the hotels to prepare for a night on the town.  Another aspect that this club felt the heat for a lot last year was their offensive complacency.  They had the potential to score five goals a night, yet sometimes would only register 20 shots a game.  That, on top of the fact that the Flyers finished 1 F#@%%*** point behind the Penguins last year, will lead to a more “Every Game matters” approach, as opposed to “I’m pretty hungover, let me half-ass it”.

Laperriere mixed it up against Detroit earlier this Preseason

When people read that last line, they may be reminded of the old 70’s Flyers teams – the Stanley Cup Champion Flyers teams.  They’d go pound an opponent all night, then go out on the town and have a beer with their loyal fans.  Obviously, sports are completely different today as far as player-fan interaction is concerned, but when it comes to a physical, intimidating aspect, the Flyers have truly gotten away from their “Bully” mentality the last few seasons.  Fear no more, Flyers fans: this year’s club is, fast, big, and most of all, MEAN.  They will be a very physical and damaging date for opponents every night and a big part of that has been the movements through the club’s forwards by Holmgren over the past few months.  Knuble and Lupul are gone, but Ian Laperriere is in.  Lappy brings an instigator element, while also being a locker room leader and someone who’s traditionally been incredibly well-respected by his teammates.  It’s assumed that style will translate to the Flyers dressing room.  On top of Laperriere, throw Dan Carcillo, Arron Asham, and Riley Cote into the mix and many NHL clubs would likely run and hide, rather than face-off against the Orange and Black.

Mike Richards will lead the Flyers in a Quest for The Cup

On the scorer’s front, the Flyers’ brass has been incredibly impressed with Mika Pyorala’s performance over the preseason, so much so that he likely will crack the opening-night roster as a third or second line winger.  If JVR does make the trip to Carolina, look for him to appear alongside Richards and Gagne on the first line.  The second line would likely feature either Pyorala or Ian Laperriere with Carter and Hartnell, and whoever doesn’t land that spot on the second line will fill the remaining hole on the third line, playing alongside Briere and Giroux.  The fourth line will be no push-over, and likely will feature something to the extent of Darroll Powe, Arron Asham and Dan Carcillo, with Riley Cote traveling with the team as a healthy scratch.  All in all a very deep line-up, and as I said earlier, a definite force to be reckoned with.  Last year, the Flyers featured six players with 25 or more goals – an unbelievable achievement.  Although two of them – Lupul and Knuble – are gone, full seasons from Danny Briere and Claude Giroux should help to erase the deficit created by the others departure.  Add JVR into that equation, and there is a possibility of seven 25+ goal scorers on this club in 2009-’10.  If healthy, this group should have explosiveness and depth unmatched by any other team in the NHL, which could lead to big things come May and June.  The Flyers have heard everything thrown their way this season: “Not good enough”, “Pittsburgh’s better”, “A 4-seed at best”.  Now, however, it’s time for the Orange and Black to prove that the squad they have assembled is worthy of an engraving on a certain Cup hockey players and fans are very familiar with.  To be honest, there aren’t many reasons to believe they wont prove their worth in ‘09-’10.

For much of the preseason, the major roster question was who general manager Paul Holmgren was going to decide to keep with the big club —  James van Riemsdyk, Mika Pyorala or Blair Betts.  But according to Holmgren, the Flyers want all three.

“If we were submitting rosters tomorrow, yeah, (Pyorala, JVR and Betts) would probably would be on it,” said Holmgren.

The news comes as somewhat surprising considering Betts and van Riemsdyk will not be healthy scratches.  Betts will take over fourth-line center and special teams duties, while JVR will become a top-9 scoring winger.  And with just one roster spot vacant heading into the regular season, logic says that someone on the current Flyers roster will need to be a scratch.

Some point to enforcer Riley Cote as the scapegoat, whiles others believe Arron Asham or Darroll Powe will be the odd-man out.  Either way, it appears that the early offseason conundrum of who the Flyers were going to covet — a shut down center or scoring winger — has been answered.

They chose both.

As the Flyers think about finalizing their roster as the end of the pre-season draws near, it looks like a final roster spot at the forward position may come down to a choice between enforcer Riley Cote and newly-signed Finnish prospect Mika Pyorala. The Flyers’ decision here could say alot about their direction as a team. Pyorala has looked good in camp, scoring some goals, showing some speed, and showing a knack for getting to the holes. He is a little older than most prospects at age 28 and has experience playing in Europe. I think he should have a roster spot. Typical Flyers’ mentality would give the spot to Cote, as they have always liked tough grinder/mucker/fighter types. That’s why they have three such players on the roster: Cote, Aaron Asham, and Dan Carcillo. They don’t need three fighters. Cote scored three points last season and lost half his fights. Asham and Carcillo provide enough toughness and have more offensive skill. They Flyers need scoring after losing Mike Knuble and Joffrey Lupul and it looks as though Pyorala can provide some. Now is the time for Cote to go. The team needs to change its thinking and choose skill over toughness in this case. It’s not the 70s anymore.

Flyers Training Camp starts September 13.  Mark Chris Pronger “Present and Accounted For”.

Pronger will be looking to help the Flyers reach hockey's highest throne this season

The future Hall of Fame defenseman and prized Flyers off-season acquisition broke in his new digs in the Philadelphia area this past weekend, moving in both he and his family.  Pronger spent the weekend getting to know the Philadelphia area, and even found himself in attendance alongside new Flyer teammates Riley Cote and Jeff Carter at an event most Flyers fans would likely find appealing: “UFC 101: Declaration” at the Wachovia Center on Saturday night.

Pronger, who is notorious for his rigorous off-season workout regiment, has always been one of the first to arrive in the area for Training Camp.  Back in July, when Pronger was introduced as the newest member of the Philadelphia Flyers, he claimed he was “feeling as good” as he ever has coming into a season.  With the burly defenseman in the area for good, Flyers fans can only hope that the acqusition will play up to it’s full billing.

Other than  being one of the top defenseman in the league, Chris Pronger was brought in by the Flyers to be an active leader and influence for the young core.  And with a month still remaining before training camp on Sept. 13,  the veteran defender’s job as a role model has already been put in motion.

“I’m usually here around this time trying to start skating and preparing for the season, and doing all the little things that it takes to be ready to go for the start of camp,” Pronger told the Flyers’ Kevin Kurz, about showing up to camp a month early.

At 6′6, 214 lbs., Pronger, in his 16th season in the NHL, doesn’t always enjoy showing up this early for camp workouts.  But he knows that’s what it takes to be a winner.

“Every year it’s always the same. You get to August, and wish that you could fast forward this month and get right to camp,” he said. “It starts to get a little old, when you go on three months of training and you get a little sick of riding the bike and doing all the other things you’ve got to do to prepare. You want to get on the ice and get skating with your teammates and do what you love to do.”

Teammates Riley Cote and Jeff Carter both accompanied Pronger to UFC 101, held at the Wachovia Center last Saturday. There, the bruising blue liner got a taste of what a blood-thirsty Philly crowd is like.

“It seemed like a pretty raucous atmosphere,” he said.

Thanks in large part to Riley’s wife, Holly, we here at The Philly Phour were able to conduct an interview with the Flyers forward.  In the interview, Riley touches on everything from his reaction to the Chris Pronger deal, his excitement for the Winter Classic, and even his annual event, the Cote Carnival.  Read and enjoy.  Special thanks once again to Riley and Holly Cote for their assistance in this interview.

THE PHILLY PHOUR: What was your initial reaction when you saw that the Flyers had acquired All-Star Defenseman Chris Pronger at the 2009 NHL Entry Draft?

Riley Cote: I had mixed feelings when I saw we traded for Chris Pronger.  I lost two good friends in (Joffrey) Lupul and (Luca) Sbisa, but we all got a great defenceman in Pronger.  Hockey is a business and trades happen.  But I do believe we are a better team now then before – no disrespect to anyone.

Cote is excited about the possibilites for the Flyers in '09-'10

THE PHILLY PHOUR: After sitting out last year’s playoffs with an injury, how are you feeling entering this season? Also, describe your excitement to contribute to the team again.

R.C.: I feel great right now.  My finger is fully healed; a little funky looking, but fully functional.  I am very excited to get started and help the Flyers win a Stanley Cup.  Last year for me was a lower part in my career.  I spent most of the season playing hurt and I feel our team underachieved.  So, that being said, I feel like I’ve got a lot to prove and just can’t wait to get back out there.

THE PHILLY PHOUR: Describe your reaction when you saw that the you and the Flyers would be participating in the 2010 NHL Winter Classic.

R.C.: I was very excited to see that we were going to be in the Winter Classic.  It’s a different atmosphere against a good, tough opponent.  So I just know it’s going to be a great time.

THE PHILLY PHOUR: When you look at this Flyers roster, what do you feel the Orange and Black can accomplish this season?

R.C.: When I look at our squad, I feel like this is the year.  We have a great team and we are going to be a hard team to play against – it’s Old School Flyers Hockey.  This team was built to win a Cup.

THE PHILLY PHOUR: Last but not least, for those Flyers fans (or hockey fans in general) not familiar with your off-ice activities, please talk about your Annual Cote Carnival and what the basis for the event is all about.

R.C.: I will be hosting my 2nd Annual “Cote Carnival” on August 23rd at Swanky Bubbles in Cherry Hill, New Jersey.  It is a charity event with all proceeds going to MSAA (Multiple Sclerosis Association of America).  My sister has Multiple Sclerosis, so doing something like this to raise money and bring awareness to the cause is the least I can do.  On top of that, it’s a great time.

Once again, I’d like to thank both Riley and Holly Cote for their help in organizing this interview.  As Holly told me, an athlete’s off-season can be as busy – if not even more busy – than the regular season!  That being said, we here at The Philly Phour greatly appreciate Riley taking the time to do this interview.  Thanks, Riley, and Let’s Go Flyers!

For those of you interested in Cote’s charitable event (in the form of contributing or even attending), The 2nd Annual Cote Carnival, check out some of the links I have posted below:

Riley Cote’s MySpace

Cote Carnival Official Site

It’s pretty clear that the Flyers are thin on the wing at this point; they need to add another forward who has some scoring ability. Pittsburgh has not yet re-signed Petr Sykora, who had 25 goals in 76 games last season. The latest talk has the Flyers interested in signing him, but they would need to dump some salary first. This leads to rumors that Randy Jones and either Dan Carcillo or Riley Cote may be traded to Los Angeles. Fueling this speculation was the Flyers’ recent signing of former Columbus defenseman Ole-Kristian Tollefsen. This may allow for them to trade Jones and his big contract, although Tollefsen has often been injured and played only 25 games last season. For that matter so has Sykora, who missed most of the playoffs last season with injuries. The Flyers may have to take a chance on him because they do need some additional scoring up front.

I have been doing a lot of numbers-crunching over the past few days trying to figure out how the Flyers can somehow fit a talented player at a bargain price under their cap-strapped situation.  As a result, I’ve come up with five players, who could be bargains if they fall into the Flyers’ lap, and are more than capable of bringing the “Bang for the Buck”.

Hopefully Holmgren isn't done in Free Agency

You have probably heard me come up with many names already throughout the whole free agency process as I – like most of the Flyer faithful – am hoping that the Flyers have not made their last move in free agency.  Therefore, it will quickly be noticed that some of these names are repetitive, but bare with me, these guys could definitely help the Orange and Black if they were to sign with the organization.

Ironically, the EXACT 5 players who I intended to write about, were all mentioned in Ryan Bright’s Flyers blog, Philabright.  Bare with me – even though the list of players may be the same, I have my reasoning.

I will present the five players and highlight their positives and negatives in two distinct categories: Good News and Bad News.  You’ll get the hand of it quickly.  Without further ado, my five free agents who really – actually – could – maybe – but maybe not – be Flyers in the 2009-’10 season (great title, right?).

FIVE FREE AGENTS WHO REALLY – ACTUALLY – COULD – MAYBE – BUT MAYBE NOT – BE FLYERS IN THE 2009-2010 SEASON

Mike Sillinger (CENTER)

• GOOD NEWS: Sillinger is the solid center the Flyers desperately need deep into their line-up and an incredibly strong Penalty Killer to boot.  He would be a welcome addition for Flyers Captain Mike Richards, who would see his Penalty-Killing time decrease, and, would therefore see his energy level increase late in games.  Sillinger has played for the Flyers before in his career, so he knows what a hockey-crazy town like Philadelphia demands from his players.  He’s been on just about every coast of the United States throughout his NHL career, and, at 38 years old, won’t demand too much of a contract, either.  In 1,049 games played – a rare feat to accomplish by anyone’s standards – Sillinger has accumulated 548 total points; basically a point every other game.  He’s the “Old, wily veteran” (Sillinger has played on more teams – 12 -than anyone else in NHL history) that we hear so much about in today’s game and would be a nice fit on the Flyers third or fourth lines and on one of the two Penalty-Killing units.

• BAD NEWS: I mentioned that Sillinger was a bit old, being 38 as he enters the upcoming season.  One thing that age tends to not do well with is coping with injuries, and lately, Sillinger has had a  lot of trouble staying healthy.  He missed all but seven games last season after undergoing hip resurfacing surgery in February 2009, and also had microfracture surgery for his hip in 2008.  Two consecutive years of injury plagued, hip surgery induced seasons can kill any players reputation at the professional level.  Sillinger’s age definitely is not a reassuring factor, either.  When healthy, Sillinger is effective as anybody as a third or fourth line shut down center.  However, before making a commitment to “Silly,” the Flyers must ask themselves, “Is it really worth the risk?

Chris Gratton (CENTER)

No, seriously.

• GOOD NEWS: OK, OK, I know.  Believe me, I do.  I looked at Gratton’s name about four or five times – laughing it off close to three – before finally coming to grips that Gratton could actually do some good as a Flyer this season.  I’m not trying to pull a fast ball here – Gratton was a complete bust when with the Flyers back in 1997, and I still can’t believe the Flyers brass gave him $9 million to basically play here for a little over one year – I admit that.  However, this is the good news part, and here’s the best of it – Gratton will come extremely cheap if the Flyers are interested.  Last year was a year from hell for Gratton – he bounced around between the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Norfolk Admirals – Tampa’s AHL Affiliate – before being waived and finally signing with the Columbus Blue Jackets.  Behind all that horror of a season, Gratton could help a team he once stole money from in a big way.  Playing as a third line center with the Flyers – in between, say, Danny Briere and Claude Giroux – Gratton’s game would rise and the Flyers would be the sole beneficiaries of his fruit.  Gratton’s big (6′4”) and strong (230 lbs), and could serve as an imposing presence down the middle for the Flyers.  He’s 34 years old, so there’s still some years of production left in him.  Who knows?  Maybe he’s the bargain the Flyers have been searching for.

• BAD NEWS: Chris Gratton is still Chris Gratton.  When I say that, I mean the obvious – he’s a player that has had the potential to do so much, yet has accomplished so little in what has been a long – albeit winding – NHL career.  Talent has never been the question with Gratton; he was the 3rd overall pick in the 1993 NHL Entry Draft, and was one of the most hyped NHL prospects coming into the big leagues.  However, a lack of determination, and often sluggish play, has hurt Gratton’s NHL image.  However, the one factor that remains with him – even at the age of 34 – is potential.  And that’s what’s kept him around in the NHL for so long.  The sad thing is that Gratton’s best years of hockey in this league – for what they were – are behind him.  The Flyers really need to think about this one before giving it serious thought because Gratton’s reputation is the only thing worse than that of an injury-prone player: a guy who just flat-out doesn’t care.

Brendan Shanahan (RIGHT/LEFT WING)

• GOOD NEWS: Shanahan is the ultimate package when it comes to veteran experience.  He’s won everywhere and anywhere he’s been and is an exclusive member of the Triple Gold Club, in winning the Stanley Cup, an Olympic Gold Medal, and a World Championship.  Shanahan would bring a great deal of leadership to the Flyers dressing room and is certainly capable of performing at a high level at this point in his career, even though he is 40 years old.  He is just two years removed from a 40+ point season with the New York Rangers in ‘07-’08 and would thrive as a playmaker with the speedy and shifty youth that the Flyers currently possess.

• BAD NEWS: I hate to contradict myself, but the guy is 40 years old.  He would be signed to a one-year deal, as would any of these possible signees, and may be counted on to do more than he can handle.  I can picture the Flyers signing Shanahan now, and then I picture seeing my dad cringe and start complaining about his age one second later.  I’m not sure if I can handle that.  Come to think of it, I’m not sure if the Flyers even will want to.

Todd Bertuzzi (RIGHT WING)

Bertuzzi can drop the gloves while also bringing a scoring element unmatched in most enforcers

• GOOD NEWS: Is there anyone on this list who fits the breed of a Flyer more than Bertuzzi?  He’s big, physical, and knows how to put the puck in the net when he has to.  Last season, Bertuzzi enjoyed a brief renaissance with the Calgary Flames, tallying 15 goals and 44 points on the year.  I am a strong believer in Bertuzzi being a dark horse in this year’s free agent market and feel that it would certainly behoove the Flyers to take a look at him.  He would thrive in a building like the Wachovia Center, with the energy and noise that resonates within the Wach’s walls, and the fans would take an extreme liking to him as well.  Bertuzzi made a mistake a few years ago that ruined his image, and I’m sure that he would be the first to tell you he regrets it; there’s no denying that he would be an integral player on the Flyers roster if they decide to sign him up for this season.

• BAD NEWS: The Flyers aren’t exactly the Darlings of the NHL, by any standards.  That title exclusively belongs to Cindy – er, Sidney – Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins.  This is a team that has formerly been known – and is still commonly referred to – as the “Broad Street Bullies” and have had the “Bad Boy” image from the minute they came on the NHL map.  The Flyers already have tough guys like Daniel Carcillo, Ian Laperriere, Chris Pronger, Riley Cote, and Arron Asham.  An addition of Bertuzzi would just hurt the Flyers’ image even more.  People would really start to believe that the Flyers were going for every other NHL team’s jugular, in a strictly physical sense.  With so much riding on this season, you have to question whether the Flyers really need him.

Maxim Afinogenov (LEFT WING)

• GOOD NEWS: Maxim is as pure as they come in skill.  He’s shifty, quick and can bring on the wheels as well as anybody.  Last season was the worst of Afinogenov’s career, notching only 21 points.  The Flyers have been rumored to be interested in Afinogenov’s services and I hope that the rumors are true.  Maxim enjoyed the best seasons of his career when he played alongside current Flyer Danny Briere on the Buffalo Sabres, and it’s my hope the Flyers are willing to give him a chance to re-invigorate his career and make the Flyers third line of Briere-Afinogenov-Giroux just as feared as their top unit.  We all learned it the hard way from Pittsburgh last year: a team is only as good as it’s third and fourth lines in the new NHL.

• BAD NEWS: Same deal as Gratton here – is there a drive in Afinogenov that will allow him to be the best player he possibly can?  It seemed early on that Maxim certainly had the drive, but since Briere and others left Buffalo, so too it seems has Afinogenov’s intensity.  He has become passive and has seem to have lost interest in the North American Game, even contemplating a return to Russia in the form of the KHL last season.  Does a change of heart come with a change of scenery?  Maybe the Flyers shouldn’t take the risk to find out.

Free Agency is well underway, and the Flyers have made a minimal splash on the market, aside from July 1st acquisitions of Goaltender Brian Boucher, and Winger Ian Laperriere.  Neither of these players automatically transform a team into a Cup winner, but they certainly serve as integral pieces to a strong puzzle that General Manager Paul Holmgren is building in South Philadelphia.  That being said, even with a team in place that is more than capable of contending for a Cup, it appears Holmgren is not yet finished fine-tuning his roster.  According to this article by NHL.com’s Mike Morreale, Holmgren has said he would like to add another scorer to the Orange and Black for the upcoming season.  So, who fits the Flyers?  Who can help off-set the 52-goal subtraction that has left Philadelphia in the form of Joffrey Lupul and Mike Knuble shipping out?  Basically, what happens now?

I’ve taken a quick look at the Flyers Salary Cap Crunch for the upcoming season, and given the money allotted to players on the current roster, the Orange and Black don’t have a whole lot to work with.  According to the information presented there, the Flyers have a Cap Hit of $54,646,250 set to be paid to everyone under contract entering this season, leaving them with a little over $2 million to work with, as far as free agency is concerned.  It has been rumored that the Flyers would be looking to trade either of their two bottom defensemen – Randy Jones or Matt Carle – who make $2.75 million and a little under $3.5 million, respectively, to free up more space under the cap so that they can pursue a scorer.  However, it would be logical to assume that the Flyers would feel comfortable adding someone else first into their top six on the blueline to keep the strong unit in tact.

One possibility would be to re-sign Andrew Alberts, who remains unsigned after entering the Free Agent market four days ago.  Alberts started off fairly shaky after being acquired from the Boston Bruins early in the ‘08-’09 season, but found his niche mid-way through the year and wound up having a nice season for the Flyers.  Another possibility would be, of course, to pull from within the family and bring someone up from the Phantoms.  Defensively, they don’t come better than Danny Syvret at Glens Falls, and the youngster showed he was more than capable of handling the professional level during a few brief stints last season.  However, Syvret is currently a Restricted Free Agent, meaning that he likely will be back with the Flyers organization, but nothing is definite.  Until that situation is cleared up, it’s hard to make any assumptions involving Syvret.  Other possibilities of Phantoms call-ups include Oskars Bartulis, who has proven himself dependable at the professional level, Mike Ratchuck, who just finished his first full season of professional hockey last season, and Patrick Hersley, a young Swede who has shown glimpses of skill in his brief minor league stint with Philadelphia.

However, suppose the Flyers don’t make any trades and keep both Carle and Jones.  To some this may not be such a bad alternative, but it would result in the Salary Cap picture once again coming into glaring view for Philadelphia.  So, with a little over $2 million to spend, who would make a good fit with the Flyers?  Here are five names to consider (NOTE: I have only included UFA’s, because, let’s be honest, RFA’s are going to be too much compensation-wise for the Flyers to handle).

5 FORWARD FREE AGENT NAMES TO CONSIDER (THAT YOU HAVEN’T ALREADY HEARD) (Last year’s team in parantheses)

1. Stephane Yelle (Boston Bruins, UFA):  Yelle is a name that has been talked about throughout Flyer circles for the past few days as someone the Orange and Black are looking to add to bolster themselves down the middle.  The 35 year old Center proved to be incredibly reliable for the Boston Bruins last season, but quickly lost his job due to Boston’s Free Agent signing of Steve Begin on July 1st.  Yelle isn’t quite the point producer he once was, as last season he went for seven goals and eleven assists, but he certainly would add another reliable man to the face-off dot for the Flyers.  As things are positioning themselves now, it appears the Flyers will utilize a combination of Mike Richards, Jeff Carter, Danny Briere, and Darroll Powe as their centermen.  The acquisition of Yelle would allow the Flyers to stack their first two lines, moving Briere to a wing, and solidifying their centers down the middle.
2. Maxim Afinogenov (Buffalo Sabres, UFA):  Acquiring Afinogenov would be pushing the financial envelope for the Flyers somewhat, but it’s definitely something worth looking into.  For some reason or another, the Flyers have always had a grudge against signing Russian players, so bringing in Maxim would have to come as an exception, but I think the Flyers should be willing to make an adjustment.  Sure, Afinogenov had, by far, the worst year of his career last season (6G,14A=20PTS), but the guy is incredibly talented and a very quick skater.  He’s reached the twenty goal plateau thrice thus far in his career, and a new environment could be exactly what a guy like Max may need to resurrect his career.  Plus, in today’s NHL it never hurts to add a guy with speed, and that is something that Afinogenov possesses.  As stated earlier, the Flyers would need a financial bargain to bring Afinogenov to South Philadelphia, but #61 jerseys would quickly become popular if the Flyers could bring Max to Broad Street.
3. Todd Bertuzzi (Calgary Flames, UFA):  Steve Moore may not be happy about this selection, but I think many Philadelphia Flyer fans would.
   

   Uh-oh.

   What’s not to like about Bertuzzi as a guy the Flyers could bring in?  He’s big, he’s tough, and he has the tenacity that would be able to electrify the Wachovia Center on a nightly basis.  He’s coming from a team in Calgary that made their mark by beating the snot out of their opponents, and he would bring a similar attitude to the Flyers.  Before shaking your head at this name, consider this: the Flyers’ GM is Paul Holmgren.  He, himself was a very physical presence back in his hay-day.  Therefore, he has a soft-spot in his heart for the NHL’s “Bad Boys” (Emery, Pronger, Carcillo, Cote).  Don’t be shocked if the Flyers make a push this winger, because, when healthy, he can produce for the type of position the Flyers would need him in: a guy that can camp out in front of a goaltender’s net night in and night out and make life miserable, while creating scoring chances in the process.  Last season, Bertuzzi had a very respectable campaign, scoring 15 goals to go along with 29 assists for a nice 44 point season.  Still not liking the idea?  Well, hope the Flyers can’t afford him, because if the money’s right and the shoe fits, it may just be a perfect fit on to Bertuzzi’s foot.

4. Manny Malholtra (Columbus Blue Jackets, UFA):  The proto-typical third line center if there ever was one, Manny Malholtra would be a very nice fit to the organ-EYE-zation.  Like Stephane Yelle, Malholtra is known for his face off prowess and is looking to join a big-market club after spending the last four post-lockout seasons in Columbus.  The price for Malholtra shouldn’t be too steep and that could play a large role in attracting the Flyers to directing a phone call his way.  Malholtra notched a career high in points last year, garnering 35 on 11 goals and 24 assists.  If signed by the Flyers, it would present the Orange and Black with the same type of scenario that was presented if Yelle were to sign: flexibility.  And when all a team has is $2 million to work with, a little flexibility could be the best thing they may ever get.
5. Robert Lang (Montreal Canadiens, UFA):  Remember when Robert Lang was one of the top players in the NHL?  Neither do I, but he has definitely had some glory seasons in this league.  Lang is OLD (38), and in the twilight of his career, but could come as a relative bargain to the Flyers, if they are so inclined to inquire about his services.  In an injury shortened season last year (50 games), Lang posted 39 points, notching 18 goals in the process.  It’s perceived that Lang will find an NHL job, whether with the Flyers or elsewhere, but it would be nice to see his career end in Philadelphia.  The Flyers should be able to afford him, and provided he stays healthy, he would be a nice pick-up.  The main question would be: if the Flyers can come to terms with a guy like Lang at 38, why couldn’t they make the move necessary to keep Mike Knuble at 37?
   

Keep and eye out on these guys and we’ll see if I end up looking smart (has to happen to everybody at some point) and one of them end up with the Philadelphia Flyers.  I’ll be attending the Flyers Press Conference tomorrow, as they introduce Chris Pronger and (I believe) Brian Boucher and Ian Laperriere to the media at the Flyers Skate Zone in Vorhees, NJ.  Expect a post on all the happenings surrounding that exciting day tomorrow.

Hope you all had a great holiday.

Philadelphia Inquirer writer Sam Carchidi wrote a piece designing the projected Flyers’ line combinations for the 2009-10 season.  He put Ian Laperriere on the second line wing and Mike Richards centering the third line with Arron Asham and Daniel Carcillo.  Being moved by the article,  I decided to take it upon myself to put together the groupings to start the season.

The Flyers are sure to acquire a semi-skilled right winger to replace Mike Knuble in the lineup.  But even with the future player yet to be plucked, the Flyers won’t have the depth they did in the past.

Carcillo – Richards – Gagne

The line that used to feature Knuble, suddenly needs a big body in front.  Carcillo isn’t as skilled as Knuble, but provides the energy and space creating ability to give Richards and Simon Gagne room.  Taking Carcillo off the third or fourth line also spreads out the team’s scoring depth.

Hartnell – Carter – UFA

The Scott Hartnell – Jeff Carter connection remands intact, but the player replacing Joffrey Lupul has yet to be acquired.  Laperriere is an option, but the team needs more of a sniper on Carter’s wing.  Danny Briere is another option, but the Flyers want to spread out the wealth, keeping Briere with Claude Giroux on the third line.

Briere – Giroux – Laperriere

Laperriere gives Giroux and Briere some space to work and a target up front.  Some believe that Giroux, Gagne and Briere will be the french connection for the Flyers, but it will actually be this combination that gives the Flyers the three scoring lines they desire.

Cote – Powe – Asham

Although the fourth line will be the toughest on the Flyers, Powe and Asham have proven they can put points on the board, as well as handle themselves in a fight.  Powe’s speedy forecheck and Asham’s ability to finish on turnovers will give the Flyers some potency from what is typically known as an energy line.  Prospect James van Riemsdyk is not ready for the NHL and regardless of what some writers say, is not in the Flyers’ plans this year unless he completely dominates camp, which is unlikely.

On defense, the Flyers also need to spread the talent, with four top-end defenders.

Timonen – Coburn

The former top pairing returns together, giving the Flyers size and puck-moving ability.  A pure shut-down line.

Pronger – Carle

Matt Carle may be the weakest defensive defenseman on the team and should be matched with the strongest.  Carle’s lack of size and ability to puck control, matches well with Pronger’s size and rangy defensive capabilities.

Parent – Jones

Not the strongest pairing, Parent is better defensively than Carle and will allow Randy Jones to work the puck more.  Parent’s poise has grown immensely since coming into the league and it will be a nice test for him to see how he does being the shut-down guy in his pairing.

If the Flyers want to load up the first-two pairings, it will likely change to Timonen – Parent and Pronger – Coburn, leaving Carle and Jones together.  However, with Pronger averaging 26 minutes and Timonen averaging around the same, the third pairing might not see that much time under this scheme.