Flyers Young Defender Should Smash Career Highs
This Philadelphia Flyers defenseman could be in for a breakout season.
Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports - Flyers Young Defender Should Smash Career HighsThe Philadelphia Flyers made a massive move last season, trading former top prospect Cutter Gauthier to the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for defenseman Jamie Drysdale and a 2025 second-round pick. Gauthier was unwilling to sign with the Flyers, so GM Daniel Briere used him to land a promising young defender and a solid draft pick.
Drysdale's start with the Flyers was tough, as he posted two goals, three assists, and a minus-18 rating in 24 games. He also missed 16 games after an upper-body injury suffered on Feb. 25 against the Pittsburgh Penguins. Overall, it was a hard way for Drysdale to start his tenure in Philly, but the new season presents a fresh start for the 2020 sixth-overall pick.
Drysdale is entering the season fresh, having undergone surgery in April to repair a sports hernia he played through all of the campaign. He is expected to be ready for the start of the 2024-25 season, and he has the potential to break out in a big way because of it.
At 22 years old, Drysdale still has plenty of time to reach his full potential. He has already shown promise at the NHL level, posting four goals and 32 points in 81 games with the Ducks in 2021-22. If he stays healthy, he undoubtedly has the potential to smash those current career highs in 2024-25.
The Flyers will give Drysdale the opportunity to succeed. Looking at their current depth chart, he has a very good chance of being in their top four and on their power play. Thus, if Drysdale can avoid the injury bug this year, he could put together an excellent season for Philly.
It will be intriguing to see what kind of season Drysdale puts together from here, but there should be plenty of optimism surrounding the former OHL star. He has the tools to become a crucial part of the Flyers' core as they continue their rebuild.
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