Ed Snider Fulfills a Promise

When the Flyers got spanked in Buffalo back in October, 9-1, A infuriated Ed Snider let loose on a rant about how this will never happen again (a few weeks later the Flyers lost to Pittsburgh 8-2 at home). Some people think Ed Snider is full of hot air, but he was right when he said this: "The old Flyers will be back."


The first move was the re-acquisition of Todd Fedoruk from Anaheim for a 4th round pick. Todd was someone who came in and held people accountable, but the Flyers still had terrible lulls, two 10-game losing streaks (if you ask the NHL it's 2 0-9-1 slumps) led the Flyers to find themselves out of the playoffs by the New Year.

Ben Eager was made a regular. His work ethic, fights, and in-you-face attitude quickly made him a fan favorite in Philly.

Then came Dimitry Afanasenkov, a curious waiver release from Tampa, picked up by the Flyers and put in a chance to succeed, and has recently found himself on a very effective energy line with Sami Kapanen and Mike Richards. He works hard, controls the puck well and has added a scoring touch the Flyers don't always find on their 3rd line. 8 goals since being picked up in late December.

Scottie Upshall, was the ace in the hole though. Assumed a throw in to the Peter Forsberg trade, Scottie Upshall has taken a chance and run with it. After scoring in his first game with the Flyers, Upshall has 5 goals and 4 assists since the trade and his attitude and heart has given hope for the rest of this season and next season. Upshall has been put on the top line with Jeff Carter and Simon Gagne and most nights has been the best, or should I say, most effective player on the ice. Upshall has drawn some comparisons to John LeClair as far as being able to finally flourish in Philly, and some will tell you that he's been better for the Flyers than Peter Forsberg is for Nashville. Upshall will fit nicely with other players who fit that Flyers attitude such as Mike Richards, Sami Kapanen, Martin Biron, Mike Knuble and other aforementioned players. With some adjustments, the Flyers have a team the fans in Philly will love to watch.