The Philadelphia Flyers are currently second to last in the Metropolitan Division with 2 points, both from shootout losses. Winning is something that is expected from the Flyers every year and although they had this horrendous start last year and still managed to make the playoffs it might not be that easy this year.
With a record of 0-2-2, the Flyers are winless through their first four games only losing by one goal every game. Talking about the netminder Steve Mason is a long conversation, but honestly this young goalie, who played outstanding last year, has not made any right moves giving up 6 goals against the New Jersey Devils in a game the Flyers should have won. It is hard to imagine the Flyers repeating a playoff berth like last year taking the New York Rangers to 7 games. Mason, Claude Giroux, Jakub Voracek, and Vincent Lecavalier all need to start stepping up.
Despite the awful start by the Flyers, Wayne Simmonds has been playing simply sensational tied for 1st in the NHL in points with 7 in 4 games 5 goals and 2 assists. Much is expected from the "Broad Street Bully" captain Claude Giroux who was an MVP candidate last year. Giroux, who is expected to make big plays night in and night out, has been giving steady point performances.
Other players who are still considered threats have not been playing up to their potential like Matt Read, Sean Couturier, and Brayden Schenn who all together have 5 total points. Losing a long time Flyers veteran Scott Hartnell in a trade over the offseason obviously took it's toll as the Flyers look disorganized and far from in sync.
Another huge absence is the Finish defensemen Kimmo Timonen, who may never see the ice again due to blood clots. Overall, the Flyers play needs to be picked up immediately in a division with teams know to make deep playoffs runs like the Pittsburgh Penguins, Washington Capitals, and Columbus Blue Jackets. It is very important to not fall behind early the Flyers may be in more trouble than expected.