To-do list for the Flyers new GM
TSN: Bob McKenzie on Insider Trading on what newly appointed GM of the Philadelphia Flyers might look at doing first.
McKenzie notes that Chuck Fletcher’s first priority is to get the Flyers back in the playoff this year as they are in a “win now” mode.
“That’s true to a certain degree, but don’t expect Chuck Fletcher to come in and start trading first-round picks or a prospect like Morgan Frost for immediate short-term help to try and get himself in the playoffs.
I think there are two things on the to-do list for Fletcher.
No. 1 is maybe finding a short-term fix in net. The goaltending hasn’t been good enough. And it could be a short-term but might even be a longer-term fix, but that is something they absolutely have to look at.
The other one would be giving Dave Hakstol, the head coach, a fair amount of time for evaluation. Fans and media wanted this guy fired before Hextall. He needs to have the opportunity now to get something done.”
Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: Flyers GM Chuck Fletcher said they will look at “in-house solutions” first with regards to improving on their 3.52 goals against average.
AHL defenseman Philippe Myers could be an option on the blue line or goaltender Anthony Stolarz could get a run of games.
Fletcher will be watching closely for the next couple weeks and will likely then start exploring the trade market.
Defenseman Shayne Gostibehere may no longer be untouchable with Fletcher taking over.
Another defenseman who could be closely watched by Fletcher is Travis Sanheim.
Fletcher met with the team before practice yesterday.
“He laid out what he wants from us to do,” Gostisbehere said. “It’s simple. It’s win. Win games. We’ve got a good team in here, and that’s what we’re going to do.”
“His message to our team was very clear, very positive,” coach Dave Hakstol said.