Owen Tippett, a right winger for the Philadelphia Flyers, has been a topic of discussion regarding his optimal role within the team. While he has showcased potential as a top-six forward, a compelling case exists for him to thrive in a bottom-six role.
Tippett's 2024-25 season was marked by inconsistency, with a decrease in point production and a shift in playing style that saw him become less aggressive. His shot attempts dropped significantly, and he often seemed to disappear during games, raising concerns about his future impact on the team. Despite these struggles, the Flyers have given Tippett opportunities to play in the top-six, hoping that he can regain his confidence and contribute more effectively. He has the potential to score 20 to 30 goals.
One of the primary arguments for Tippett's move to the bottom six is his shot-heavy approach. While he boasts a high shot attempt rate, his goal-scoring rate doesn't match, suggesting that he may be taking low-quality shots that disrupt puck possession. This can be detrimental when playing alongside highly skilled playmakers like Trevor Zegras and Matvei Michkov, who thrive on meticulous offensive setups. Instead, a true finisher or a player with a strong two-way presence might be a better fit on the top line.
However, recent preseason developments have seen Tippett skating on the top line with Zegras and Michkov, a move that has shown promise. This trio's skillsets appear to complement each other, with Tippett's straight-line speed, Zegras's playmaking ability, and Michkov's offensive creativity potentially forming a potent offensive force.
Despite the potential for success in the top-six, there are valid reasons to believe Tippett could excel in a lower role. In a bottom-six role, Tippett's offensive capabilities could provide a significant boost to the team's depth. He could be deployed in situations where his shooting ability can be utilized to generate scoring chances and provide energy. Moreover, a bottom-six role might alleviate some of the pressure on Tippett, allowing him to focus on improving his overall game without the expectations of being a top scorer.
Ultimately, where Owen Tippett belongs in the lineup depends on what coach Rick Tocchet is looking for and how Tippett adapts his game. The Flyers have several players who could fit into the bottom six, including Noah Cates, Tyson Foerster and Bobby Brink. The team's success hinges on finding the right combinations and maximizing each player's strengths.
Regardless of where he plays, Tippett needs to improve his consistency and regain the confidence he displayed in previous seasons. He signed an eight-year contract extension with the Flyers in January 2024, so the team is clearly invested in his long-term success. Whether that success comes in the top six or the bottom six remains to be seen, but Tippett's talent and potential make him a valuable asset to the Philadelphia Flyers.
