In terms of accelerating the rebuild, they view it as going for that if there’s a specific fit (skill set, age, etc) and otherwise preaching more patience. Whether that’s the right approach or not, we will see. But that’s how Briere views it.
They have been quick about jumping on needs and wants. The Woll trade was done fast, they made a solid offer on the other Carlson and of course the Leo offer. Not much can be done now until next off season except a hockey trade if the opportunity comes up. Reaching has cost them in the past. A couple teams in the East look improved on paper, but others have not or even regressed. Now, they have to work with what they’ve got.
The big issues for the Flyers to me look like:
Improved scoring: I think they can hit 270 goals this year, up 20 from last.
Better record against the East: They were only 22-20-8 last year. That needs to get better.
Maturity/Experience: They played down to weaker opponents too much. They let the wheels fall off the wagon in January after a couple injuries vs. ANA and a home & home pasting from TB. Complete crisis in confidence. Still a young team that lets things get in their heads a bit too much.
Next season should be fun.