Hockey season, well the offseason that is, ramps up this week as the expansion franchise, Las Vegas, unveils its inaugural roster all while a new crop of talent enters the league during the NHL Draft.
Here’s a look at what the schedule looks like this week and what Flyers fans should be looking out for:
Tuesday, June 20
The NHL’s newest sponsor, Adidas, will release in full all 31 team uniforms. There have been teaser images released over the past few weeks, and from the looks of it, the Flyers jersey will remain intact. A few teams, like Minnesota, will have some notable changes in their jersey layout, while the Vegas Golden Knights’ uniform will also make its debut. One thing of note: Don’t expect any alternate jerseys to be unveiled, it has been reported that Adidas will hold off third jerseys for at least one year. The hopeful return of the black uniforms will have to wait for at least another season.
Wednesday, June 21
There will be a lot of excitement as Vegas is set to release its team during the NHL Awards at 8 p.m. It was announced that the release of the names will be spread throughout the evening and not dumped all at once. Flyers fans will be waiting to see which player from the orange and black has been selected. The most likely name to be nabbed is goaltender Michal Neuvirth. Of all the unprotected players for the Flyers, he’d likely garner the most interest. If it’s not him, fans likely should expect Michael Raffl to be the one plucked away. Jordan Weal is a longshot for Vegas, but if it’s none of the above two, it’ll probably be him. Matt Read also is in the mix, but probably a bit more unlikely, although the Flyers wouldn’t be too upset if his contract went off their books.
Related link: Flyers make minor trade ahead of NHL draft
Thursday, June 22
The excitement of the 2017-18 season really amps up as the league will announced the complete regular season schedule for all 31 teams. While schedule’s aren’t all that exciting since every team plays each other regardless, Flyers fans will certainly be looking to see when the team makes its first ever trip to the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Can anyone say “road trip”? The trade freeze also will expire on this day, which likely will see Vegas move some of its pieces for younger players. A potential Marc-Andre Fleury trade has been rumored, and the Flyers could certainly be among the suitors.
Friday, June 23
Another important piece of the Flyers’ future will enter the picture as the NHL Entry Draft begins. The Flyers hold the No. 2 pick and will walk away with one of the top two prospects in Nolan Patrick or Nico Hischier. The New Jersey Devils, who select first overall, will determine which player their rival selects. As with any draft, fans can expect to see general managers actively involved in trade reports, and with the Flyers dealing with log jams (per usual), there’s always a chance a veteran is moved out.
Saturday, June 24
The draft continues as rounds two to seven take up the day. The Flyers second pick will occur at No. 44. The team also picks Nos. 75, 80, 106, 107, 108, 137, 168, 196 and 199. With so many picks, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the Flyers make a minor move or two whether it’s to go up, acquire a future pick or to add a player.
