The Flyers faced off against the Boston Bruins in their sixth preseason game, and while the final score read 4-1 in favor of Boston, there were several key takeaways for Flyers fans. The Flyers fell to a 3-3 record in the preseason, but the performance of goaltender Sam Ersson stood out as a beacon of hope.
From the get-go, the Flyers struggled to keep up with the Bruins, being outshot 17-4 in the first period alone. Despite the onslaught, Ersson’s resilience in goal kept the Flyers within striking distance, allowing just one goal in the first period and stopping 30 of 32 shots overall. His performance was a reminder of the potential stability he could bring to a position that has been a significant question mark for the Flyers.
Ersson’s efforts were particularly noteworthy given the Flyers’ lineup, which was one of their most complete of the preseason. His ability to keep the team in the game against some of Boston’s top players is a positive sign as the team heads into the regular season. Ersson himself has expressed feeling more mentally prepared for the load this season, a sentiment echoed by Flyers broadcaster Jason Myrtetus.
But Ersson wasn’t the only player under the microscope. Anthony Richard, a 27-year-old forward with a knack for speed, also caught my eye. Richard, who has spent most of his career in the AHL, showed flashes of potential that could make him a valuable asset for the Flyers, especially if injuries become an issue. His ability to create scoring opportunities with his speed was evident, even if he didn’t convert on his chances.
On the other end of the spectrum was Jett Luchanko, the Flyers’ 2024 first-round pick. While there’s a lot of excitement around Luchanko, it’s clear that he’s still adjusting to the pace of the NHL. In the two games he’s played, Luchanko has shown moments of promise but also signs that he’s not quite ready to make the leap to the NHL. His performance against the Bruins, where he logged significant ice time but also made critical mistakes, highlighted the gap between junior hockey and the NHL.
Luchanko’s development is something to watch closely. Sending him back to juniors, where he can play top line minutes and grow, seems like the most prudent move. This experience in the preseason will undoubtedly be invaluable for his growth, and fans can look forward to seeing a more prepared Luchanko in future seasons.
As the Flyers head into their final preseason game against the New Jersey Devils, the focus will likely remain on fine-tuning the roster and solidifying the goaltending situation. Ersson’s performance has certainly given the team something to build on, and with a solid mix of veterans and young talent, the Flyers are poised to enter the regular season with cautious optimism.
Don’t miss our postgame show where we dive deeper into these performances and discuss what they mean for the Flyers’ upcoming season. Join the conversation, share your thoughts, and let’s get ready for an exciting hockey season ahead!
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