The Flyers have showcased many things this season. Their decision to trade Jeff Carter and Mike Richards turned into an excellent move, the ability to rally around injuries and that an inconsistent presence at defense can cripple even the most offensive-minded teams.
But the one thing that can be said about this season for the Flyers, and most surprisingly, is the the fresh crop of rookies and prospects they boasted in the minors.
No other team in the NHL, this year and even recently, has kept themselves in the top four of their conference while having at least five rookies lacing up their skates on a nightly basis.
Players like Sean Couturier, Brayden Schenn, Matt Read and Zac Rinaldo have garnered most of the attention from the national and local media this season. That’s because the first three are high-profile prospects, bound to be top-six forwards by next season while Rinaldo has established himself as an important enforcer.
So that’s why it’s easy for Erik Gustafsson to fall under the radar to Flyers fans. But within the organization, that #26 jersey has been well on their radar since last season.