Jeff’s 2010 Cup Prediction: Philadelphia Flyers

Jeff Gesner is the owner/operator of a small sports apparel/memorabilia business
called “The Stadium”. He spent some time in the scriptwriting business for film. The transition has been satisfying for Jeff being a sports fanatic.

Obviously picking Detroit, San Jose or Pittsburgh are sensible choices for the 2010 Stanley Cup Winner, but there is another team that I feel has improved this off-season and will make a push for the Stanley Cup. That team is the Philadelphia Flyers.

The Flyers have improved an already solid roster, they acquired goaltender Ray Emery this summer, and as well they added all-star defenseman Chris Pronger. Emery’s off ice problems haven’t been kept confidential, we all know about his road rage issues and the party scene he enjoyed while being in Ottawa, but he did go to the Stanley Cup finals in the 2006-07 season, so unlike Biron and Niittymaki, he has some experience. I think Philadelphia will be a good fit for Ray as long as he is willing to stay away from the problems that eventually ended his career in Ottawa.

Chris Pronger doesn’t need to be hyped-up, he’s been a top blue liner in the NHL for over a decade, Pronger has a Norris Trophy, Hart Trophy, and a Stanley Cup on his resume, along with being a five time all-star. Pronger is going to be the key to Philadelphia’s success this year.

Returning to the Flyers roster is Simon Gagne, Jeff Carter, and team captain Mike Richards. I feel both Carter and Richards will be top 10 in scoring amongst the NHL this upcoming season, I’m also watching for Danny Briere to have a comeback year. Scott Hartnell put up career high 30 goals last season, and sophomore sensation Claude Giroux will add a scoring presence as well.

Philadelphia possesses youth, experience, scoring punch, and of course that Flyer toughness. If players such as Briere and Gagne can stay healthy, they have a legit shot at winning the cup in 2010.