I mean, sure, those are technically pieces that can play in those spots on an NHL team, but other than Michkov and Torts extremely degrading yet moderately effective way inducing a competitive brand of hockey, I don’t see what is winning this team games. Michkov at a certain point will lift everyone up, but he needs some degree of help in terms of game winners. The Flyers need more. If not rebuilding through early draft picks, it might need to be trades or free agency or hitting big on a late pick.
I have some moderate hopes for Zavragin, but I don’t see much else when it comes to potential star power. And like sure, I don’t want to belittle some of those players who will turn into productive NHL’ers, but NHL All-stars? When you think of a rebuild, you usually need to build a core of at least 3-4 of those pieces before you can think about potentially becoming a Cup contender. After Michkov, I’m waiting on 2-4 right now, and it’s not clear to me those pieces exist within the organization.
I would personally fire Torts, but this might not be thread for this. I don’t think he’s the coach to conduct a rebuild. He’s had an effective NHL career, but yes you want to bottom out. Fielding a competitive team to get a few extra fans in the building or some alumni more excited about the team shouldn’t be part of the direction you choose to go in. Either you have the pieces to try to make a run at the cup or you should rebuild. The Flyers don’t. Michkov is a good start (and theoretically Drysdale or Gauthier is up the right alley of what to aim for), but they need a true rebuild. Torts will make this nearly impossible because he’s effective at making hockey teams competitive, even if not necessarily making them a contender. Like I said, I’m a little worried Michkov might speed up the rebuild too much and having Torts last year lost them at least one top 5 pick.