The Philadelphia Flyers have begun their season on the road, in the far west of Canada. They seem to feel right at home. In 3 games, against some of the best teams in the West, the Flyers have gone 2-1 after winning in Vancouver last night against the Canucks by an 8-2 score.

Daniel Briere is the first player in franchise history to record multi-point games in his first three contests as a Flyer. He leads the team in scoring and his line mate, Simon Gagne, is benefiting as well as he is right behind Briere on the points list.

  • Danny Briere 4 goals 3 assists 7 pts
  • Simon Gagne 2 goals 4 assists 6 pts
  • Mike Richards 2 goals 3 assists 5 pts
  • Mike Knuble 2 goals 2 assists 4 pts

Simon GagneAfter the lost season that they endured in 2006, it could be understood if the team were to take a while to gel all of the new faces.  Credit head coach John Stevens and GM Paul Holmgren with getting this team redirected in one off season.  I am interested to see how Stevens fares with a team that is well designed and healthy.   

The 3 opponents that the Flyers played on this trip are expected to be contenders in the West. 

  • W vs. Calgary Flames 3-2
  • L vs. Edmonton Oilers 5-3
  • W vs. Canucks 8-2

ESPN’s week 1 Power Rankings had the Flames at 8 and the Canucks at 10. The Flyers were ranked 22 and the Oilers were at 26.  John Buccigross’ preseason picks has the Canucks as the 2nd best team in the West. Adam Proteau of the Hockey news has picked the Flames to finish 3rd in the Western conference.  The Flyers have warmed up against some good competition and looked very good.  I hope the Phillies are watching.  This is how you should start a season.