3 disappointing Philadelphia Flyers players who are bounce-back candidates for next season feat. Sean Couturier

By Nestor Quixtan

Modified Aug 02, 2024 04:29 GMT

The Philadelphia Flyers were very close to a playoff spot last season, especially when no one was expecting them to contend for one. But having a legendary coach like John Tortorella behind the bench can bring out the best in players.

However, some players had disappointing years despite the positive influence of a top-level coach. But there’s hope these Philadelphia Flyers can have bounce-back years. So, here’s a look at three Flyers due for a bounce-back season in 2024-25.

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Three disappointing Philadelphia Flyers players who are bounce-back candidates for 2024-45

#3 Noah Cates

Cates had a fantastic first full season in 2022-23, playing all 82 games. He registered 13 goals and 38 points, averaging nearly 18 minutes per night. That performance prompted the Philadelphia Flyers to place high hopes on the young winger.

However, Cates hit a down year last season. Overall, he was limited to 59 games, notching 18 points. More significantly, his ice time dropped to just under 14 minutes per game.

Considering that Cates projects as a bottom-six forward, there’s reason for optimism. If he can stay healthy and find his stride, he should get an opportunity to play a more significant role. So, it may not be a stretch to envision a 20-goal season for Cates.

#2 Rasmus Ristolainen

Ristolainen had a rough season in 2023-24. He dealt with several ailments, the most severe being a ruptured triceps tendon. The injury-plagued season limited him to just 31 games.

However, after having surgery to repair the rupture, Rsitolainen is expected to be at full speed come training camp this fall, which bodes well for the 29-year-old blue liner.

The Flyers hope Ristolainen can return to the form that saw him rack up four consecutive 40-point seasons with the Buffalo Sabres. Assuming he’s at full strength, Ristolainen is a prime candidate for a big bounce-back year.

#1 Sean Couturier

Couturier was at the center of controversy last season. The Philadelphia Flyers captain found himself healthy and scratched several times due to inconsistent plays. Unfortunately, his declining production has been a trend over the last few seasons.

The 2018-19 season marked the last one where Couturier had a strong showing, with 76 points in 80 games. But there’s cause for optimism. He’s still 31 and should have plenty left in the tank. If he can play a full, healthy season, Couturier should continue to be a meaningful contributor to the Flyers this upcoming season.

However, there’s one key issue for concern. He saw his average ice time drop from over 20 minutes per game to about 17 and a half. That reduction in ice time is partially due to Tortorella’s preference for deploying four regular lines each game.

Nevertheless, it could be that Couturier needs to regain Tortorella’s trust. As long as he works hard, Couturier should get his chance to contribute.