By Sarah Berkowitz
The Flyers are wrapping up training camp with a preseason game tonight at the Wells against the Devils.
So, how will they do in the Metro Division, where they flopped last season, and, almost as important, who will their fantasy stars be?
Here’s ESPN.com’s take:
Versatile forward Sam Gagner leads a short list of noteworthy newbies for the Flyers. Jetting over from the KHL, veteran defenseman Yevgeni Medvedev is pegged to provide more of a defensive presence. And freshly signed backup goalie Michal Neuvirth is fantasy-relevant only if starter Steve Mason is hurt (or unexpectedly inept).
Sleeper
As touched on above, we’re optimistic about Gagner carving out a productive role with his new squad. Capable of serving as the center or on either wing, the 26-year-old stands a super chance of carving out a prominent scoring role at even-strength and on the power play. When surrounded by the appropriate cast mates — like oft-injured Martin Hanzal in Arizona last season — Gagner has put up impressive numbers.
Bust
Whoever skates regularly alongside Claude Giroux and Jakub Voracek should score plenty. And that somebody could be forward Michael Raffl, as was occasionally the case last season. But that fortunate figure could also be Brayden Schenn, Wayne Simmonds, Gagner, etc. And Raffl doesn’t carry much fantasy value away from the Flyers’ top line.
