3 Philadelphia Flyers who might see a performance dip next season feat. Travis Konecny

By Nestor Quixtan

Modified Sep 01, 2024 04:20 GMT

The Philadelphia Flyers are a team looking to re-emerge from what’s been a largely painful rebuild. Despite making significant strides last season, most analysts don’t expect the Philadelphia Flyers to contend for a playoff spot this upcoming season.

While the long terms plans look bright for the Flyers, three players stand out as candidates for a potential regression this upcoming season. So, here’s a look at three Flyers who might see a dip in their performance this upcoming season.

3 Philadelphia Flyers who might see a dip in their performance

#3: Sean Couturier

Couturier’s performance has declined over the last couple of seasons. In fact, Couturier’s inconsistency prompted coach John Tortorella to bench the veteran player in March.

He had back-to-back 76-point seasons in 2017-18 and 2018-19. Last season, Couturier scored only 11 goals and 38 points in 74 games, the first time he has played this many games since his 2018-19 season.

Based on those numbers, there’s room to believe that Couturier’s numbers will continue to decline. While he is still 31, it seems that Couturier’s overall effectiveness may lead the Philadelphia Flyers to seek a more diminished role for the long-time Flyer.

#2: Travis Sanheim

Sanheim had a sort of breakout year last season. The former first-round pick from 2014 topped 40 points for the first time in his career.

While Sanheim has not established himself as a high-end blueliner, his numbers have gradually risen. Moreover, his durability has enabled him to play at least 80 games over the past three seasons.

Nevertheless, there’s room to believe that Sanheim’s numbers may regress more toward his career averages somewhere in the 20- to 30-point range.

Of course, the Philadelphia Flyers hope that the 28-year-old will continue to increase his production, potentially surpassing the 50-point plateau. But given his history, fans shouldn’t be surprised to see Sanheim’s point totals dip slightly this upcoming season.

#1: Travis Konecny

Konecny has emerged as the Flyers’ best player. He’s top 30 goals in back-to-back season while delivering strong play across the board.

Last season, Konecny scored 33 goals and notched 68 points, both career highs. As such, fans hope Konecny can make the next level, potentially breaking 40 goals and topping 80 points.

However, there’s always the possibility that Konecny may regress. Barring significant injuries, Konecny is projected to play with Owen Tippett and Morgan Frost. So, if Konecny’s linemates can’t play at the same level, Konecny may see a decline in his numbers.

That situation may prompt Tortorella to shake up his lines, potentially moving Konecny to the top line with Couturier.

It’s worth noting that the Flyers lack a true number-one center at this point. Couturier is no longer an effective top-six forward. Thus, Konecny may struggle to bump up his numbers unless he gets the support he needs to reach the next level.