So Flyers hockey has finally returned after a 5 month layoff after the worse season ever for the Philadelphia Flyers.
I’m partially excited to finally be able to watch hockey again, partially concerned that I have another season from hell to watch. Last night the Flyers where shutout 4-0 in London Ontario by the Ottawa Senators.
The game itself doesn’t count standings wise being preseason, obviously. Lets go over some likes and dislikes.

Likes
The physical play, even though the Flyers played the night before there was a ton of hitting. With players fighting for jobs that would be expected.
The fights, 3 fights during the game last night while nothing spectacular it was nice to see players take exception to borderline hits.
One of the fights

Hatcher not playing.
Brian Boocher in goal the third period. Although he did give up a goal he seemed more relaxed in goal then Nitty did the first 2 periods.
All 4 lines getting decent chances in the offensive zone.
CN8 carrying the game.

Dislikes
Being shutout.
Mike Rathje playing.
The defensive zone play.
Being minus-2 on special teams. A poor penalty kill and a worse power play.
Picard, I don’t want to pick on the guy too much since he is a youngin, but I did notice some bad decisions on his part that led to turnovers in or near the defensive zone.
The play by play commentators, but thats just par for the course.

What should I take way from the game? Probably not much since a decent handful of players didn’t play. It was good to see the young guys play, Downie, Parent, Giroux, Ruzicka.

Flyers still need to trim at least 2 defenseman and currently there is no room for Downie, Giroux or Ruzicka with the Flyers if they make enough of an impact in the preseason.