The Philadelphia Flyers are back on the ice after a 20-day hiatus due to the NHL's break for the 2026 Winter Olympics. As they face off against the Washington Capitals, there's a buzz around head coach Rick Tocchet's lineup choices, which have left many fans scratching their heads.
Let's dive into the lineup unveiled during Wednesday's morning skate:
Forwards:
- Trevor Zegras - Christian Dvorak - Travis Konecny
- Matvei Michkov - Noah Cates - Bobby Brink
- Denver Barkey - Sean Couturier - Owen Tippett
- Nikita Grebenkin - Carl Grundstrom - Garnet Hathaway
Defense:
- Travis Sanheim - Rasmus Ristolainen
- Cam York - Jamie Drysdale
- Nick Seeler - Noah Juulsen
Goaltender:
- Dan Vladar
The lineup raises questions, especially given the expectations post-Olympics. Fans are eager for a fresh start, but this arrangement feels like a gamble between potential brilliance and familiar frustrations.
Starting at the top, Trevor Zegras was anticipated to have a solid run at center, but it seems Tocchet has shifted gears, opting for Christian Dvorak in the middle. This is a surprising move considering Tocchet's recent comments about Zegras' role.
Matvei Michkov finds himself on the left wing, a departure from his usual spot. While this might boost his north-south game, it could also curb his offensive flair. Pairing him with Noah Cates and Bobby Brink suggests a slower pace than some might hope for.
Denver Barkey, who previously clicked with Michkov, is now alongside Sean Couturier and Owen Tippett. While this line is solid, it might not maximize the wingers' potential.
The fourth line sees Carl Grundstrom stepping in as center, a role dictated by injuries and AHL assignments. With Rodrigo Abols out and Lane Pederson with the Phantoms, options are limited. Yet, one can't help but wonder if Zegras at center could have been a smoother solution.
On defense, Rasmus Ristolainen's top-pairing role seems designed to showcase him for a potential trade, with Cam York and Jamie Drysdale forming an intriguing second pair. Meanwhile, Nick Seeler and Noah Juulsen will focus on shot-blocking as they defend their zone.
The notable absence is Emil Andrae. Despite not having a standout season, his continued sidelining raises eyebrows.
It's been over a month since the Swedish blueliner last played, and despite Tocchet's assurances of trying to get him in, Andrae remains benched. This lack of opportunity stifles his development and leaves fans questioning the strategy.
As the Flyers return to action, the lineup choices set the stage for a game that could either surprise or frustrate. With so many moving parts, tonight's matchup against the Capitals promises to be anything but predictable.