They need guys who can score the puck, and Martone is just that. Are we wing heavy? Oh god, yeah. But Hagens was looking a bit passive to many people in Boston, and one of the two most talented goal scorers fell into your lap. Take the talent, I guess. I think fans will like Martone.
now would that 12th pick have been better used on Aitcheson or Smith? Mhm. But you got a center via trade, so that’s something.
Look, let’s not fool ourselves into thinking Philly will be good next year. They won’t be. It’s still a lottery team, so you can still go center next year and take some swings tomorrow.
I’m not sure Martone goes into the NHL right away. regardless the team should be more fun to watch. Still bad, but entertaining. Shabanov could make it even more fun.
I think this team gets pesky in two seasons.
By then you’ll see another center and some defensemen via both draft and free agency.
As for goalie, who honestly knows? We don’t. I think Danny just has hope n prayers planned.
Just a shame they couldn’t move up enough to get McQueen. Once you get a Martone, you can absolutely take a swing on a guy like McQueen despite his back concerns. It woulda been all gravy.
Ah well. It’s moot.
Overall, I think the Flyers earned a B+ today, and an A or A- overall since the Zegras trade.
Zegras is worth the chance. Might be good. Might not. If he doesn’t work out, you get picks back in RFA compensation and more cap room, so why wouldn’t you roll the dice?
