In our first edition of “Predicting Flyers Lines” we covered the top forward line. Lead by a healthy Sean Couturier, last seasons top scorer Travis Konecny, and 2018 first round pick, Joel Farabee.
This week we’re talking line two, a line with just as much scoring potential as the first.
LEFT WING – Cam Atkinson
Atkinson underwent a significant neck procedure back in December and missed the entire 2022-23 season. The 34-year-old winger was expected to play a key leadership role for the Flyers since he played for John Tortorella previously and could help mold the team’s identity.
Despite being a year later, I would expect Atkinson to fulfill that veteran leadership role this season. Atkinson could slide over from his natural right wing spot to accommodate the glut of right wingers the Flyers currently have on the roster. This could open a spot for a younger right winger to make the roster.
CENTER – Morgan Frost
In a breakthrough 2023 season, Frost ended up with 19 goals and 27 assists for 46 points in 81 games played. Good enough for fourth on the team in scoring. With a dearth of options available at the center position, the 24-year-old saw a steady diet of top six minutes.
I would expect that to continue in 2023-24 as Frost found consistent success playing alongside Owen Tippett. According to Natural Stat Trick the former 2019 World Junior Classic teammates spent over 520 minutes of ice time together last season.
Frost brings a skill-set to the Flyers that stands out and something the club needs more of. His craftiness with the puck and vision to create plays remain his best qualities, especially on the man advantage.
RIGHT WING – Owen Tippett
The crown jewel of the Claude Giroux trade had himself a banner season in 2022-23. Tippett’s 27 goals were second only to Travis Konecny and 16 of those tallies came at even strength.
The 24-year-old’s underrated speed and sizzling snapshot made him a favorite of John Tortorella’s with his ice time reflecting such most nights.
If flanked by Frost once again next season, I would expect the two players to continue to pull each others games along like they did last season. Tippett and Frost two are a natural fit to play with one another.
If the Frost/Tippett duo can reach an even higher gear, the Flyers could enjoy a little more success than they did last season.
Keep it locked on High & Wide Hockey for part 3 of predicting Flyers lines next week.
MARK RAMOS IS A CONTRIBUTOR FOR HW HOCKEY
PHOTO BY MATT SLOCUM/ASSOCIATED PRESS
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