The Philadelphia Flyers are exceeding expectations early in the 2025-26 season, currently sitting seventh in the Eastern Conference. Several factors contribute to their surprising success, including the performance of key players and some strategic roster moves.
Drysdale's Growing Independence
One of the Flyers' biggest strengths has been their defense. Jamie Drysdale, acquired in a trade with the Ducks in January 2024, is emerging as a true top-four defenseman. He's averaging close to 22 minutes per game and demonstrating his ability to drive play independently. Drysdale's expected goal share at 5-on-5 is an impressive 55.52%. Notably, Drysdale is performing well even when not paired with veteran Nick Seeler, indicating his growth and maturity on the ice. This newfound independence could influence the Flyers' potential pursuit of another defensive partner for Drysdale in the future. On October 31, 2025, Drysdale scored his first goal of the season in a game against the Nashville Predators.
Kolosov's Opportunity Arises
Goaltender Samuel Ersson has been placed on injured reserve after sustaining an injury before practice. In response, the Flyers have recalled перспективный вратарь Алексе́й Ко́лосов (Aleksei Kolosov) from the Lehigh Valley Phantoms. Kolosov, considered a promising prospect, now has a golden opportunity to demonstrate his readiness for the NHL. Kolosov made his first appearance this season against the Toronto Maple Leafs on Saturday, replacing Dan Vladar early in the third period and stopping all seven shots he faced. With Ersson sidelined, the Flyers will likely rely on Vladar and Kolosov in the net. This presents a valuable chance for the Flyers to assess Kolosov's potential as a future NHL goaltender.
Zegras Finding His Stride
Forward Trevor Zegras, another key addition to the Flyers' roster, is making a significant impact. Zegras has responded well to coach Rick Tocchet's approach and is currently on a four-game, eight-point streak. He's demonstrating his offensive capabilities and contributing to the team's scoring efforts. On October 25, 2025, Zegras scored his first goal in a Flyers uniform.
Other Flyers News
- The Flyers have acquired defenseman Christian Kyrou from the Dallas Stars in exchange for winger Samu Tuomaala. Both players have been assigned to their respective AHL affiliates.
- Forward Jacob Gaucher has been recalled from the Lehigh Valley Phantoms after an injury concern about Sean Couturier.
- The Flyers defeated the Toronto Maple Leafs 5-2 on Saturday. However, Toronto defenseman Chris Tanev left the game on a stretcher after a collision.
- There are rumors that the Buffalo Sabres are showing interest in Owen Tippett, and other teams are interested in Egor Zamula.
- The Flyers are 6-4-1 for the season and are currently on pace for a playoff spot.
- Rick Tocchet's Philadelphia Flyers hosted Ryan Huska's Calgary Flames on Sunday evening.
The Flyers' early-season performance is encouraging, and the development of players like Drysdale, the opportunity for Kolosov, and the contributions from Zegras provide reasons for optimism. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see if the Flyers can maintain their momentum and solidify their position as a playoff contender.
