Philadelphia Flyers preview: James van Riemsdyk revamps lethal offense

PHILADELPHIA, PA - APRIL 07: Claude Giroux #28 of the Philadelphia Flyers celebrates one of his two second period goals against the New York Rangers with Shayne Gostisbehere #53 and Sean Couturier #14 on April 7, 2018 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Len Redkoles/NHLI via Getty Images) /

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Photo by Len Redkoles/NHLI via Getty Images /

Season Prediction

Last season, the Philadelphia Flyers were an extremely good, but flawed team. That remains the case for the 2018-19 season. Except this time around, the Flyers are going to be an even better team. James van Riemsdyk should score at least 25 goals, possibly 30, and give their second line that dynamic threat on the left side that it lacked last season.

That said, the Flyers have some pretty clear weaknesses. Unless Hart can wow us all, their goaltending is going to remain an issue. While Elliott has twice led the league in save percentage, he appears to be far away from those days. Neuvirth’s injury is going to make things interesting, especially if Elliott struggles early. How quickly would the Flyers turn to Hart, who is still very much a greenhorn?

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Their power play struggled at times last season, but they finished the season strong and, again, the addition of JVR should help there. The Flyers still need to figure out their third line, but that’s something they should be able to do. And it’s not the worst question mark to have. It’s certainly better than having questions about your top two forward lines, both of which have the potential to be great.

I think the Flyers are a year away from seriously contending. But Philly has surprised us before, and likely will again.

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