Travis Sanheim was one of the few bright spots in the lost 2021-22 season that sparked change in Philadelphia.
The 26-year-old recorded seven goals and 24 assists for 31 points in 80 games played.
For a defenseman not particularly known for his offense, a 31-point campaign coupled with a plus nine rating on a team with a negative 87 goal differential is nothing short of spectacular.
Sanheim’s stellar season earned an eight-year, $50,000,000 contract from Chuck Fletcher, locking things up through 2031.
Since the beginning portion of this season, however, things just don’t seem right for the 2014 first round pick.
Sanheim has found himself at the center of criticism from the fanbase.
With his recent extension not even underway until next season, the consistent high-end play we saw last year has vanished. A more 2021-esque version has reemerged.
Whether it be a routine play resulting in a turnover or poor coverage resulting in a goal against, Sanheim clearly is not playing at the level he is expected to. Especially if he’s to live up to the big contract he signed hours before puck drop on opening night.
Through 57 games, the Canadian blue liner has managed four goals and 12 assists. Not too far off his pace from last season. What really tells the story is his minus seven rating on a much more competitive team than the year prior.
Travis Sanheim has been tried with several different partners this season.
Even Tortorella is trying him out on the right side last game against Vancouver, but his prior success has yet to be replicated.
Prior to signing the extension, his current contract was set to expire at the end of this season. This would have made him a valuable trade chip at this year’s trade deadline.
The Flyers could have been looking at an additional first round pick in the 2023 NHL draft as part of the return. It’s around this time of year we see teams hand out early round picks to fill holes in a playoff roster.
Being a risk versus reward scenario, however, Sanheim’s value could have dropped off with his play as of late. Quite possibly resulting in an underwhelming return.
Chuck Fletcher and company elected not to take that risk and locked up the Elkhorn native long-term.
Regardless of whether fans believe Sanheim should have been dealt or re-signed, everyone can agree that we need to see more.
On paper, there are eight more years to figure it out.
Travis Sanheim, 26, only 16 points in 58 games this season is being benched today against the Flames. His 8-year contract with an AAV of 6.25M$ is only starting next season. pic.twitter.com/opShC6IG2C
— SlapshotAlerts (@SlapshotAlerts) February 20, 2023
Here’s to hoping John Tortorella, Brad Shaw, and most importantly Travis Sanheim, are able to do so sooner rather than later.
Paul Jackson is a Contributor for HW Hockey
Photo: Heather Barry ©
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