Flyers Coасһ Mаkes Flаtterіng Comраrіson Between Tyson Foerster And Rаngers Suрerstаr

When a seasoned coach like Philadelphia Flyers bench boss John Tortorella draws comparisons between one of his current players and a game-changer like Artemi Panarin, it's a bold statement.

Philadelphia Flyers winger Tyson Foerster (71) at Flyers practice in Vorhees, NJ.

Yet, Tortorella has likened 22-year-old Tyson Foerster to Panarin on more than one occasion, pointing to similarities in their hand strength and shot mechanics. To draw such a comparison speaks volumes about Foerster's raw potential, and it's especially compelling considering Tortorella's own role in Panarin's ascent during their time together with the Columbus Blue Jackets.

While the young Foerster has a long road ahead before he can be mentioned in the same breath as Panarin for his overall impact, Tortorella's confidence in Foertser's development emphasizes the depth of belief in his potential.

"[Foerster] had one of the heaviest, strongest sticks I've seen out of a young kid," Tortorella said on Monday. "I coached a guy in Panarin...[whose] strength of his hands and sticks are one of the best in the league. I compared Tyson to him last year, I remember."

Tortorella's praise is not without its qualifiers. When he comapres Foerster to Panarin, he's focused on one specific aspect: hand strength and the ability to snap off powerful, precise shots. Panarin has built his career around a lethal shot that combines accuracy with deception, an asset that has made him a consistent offensive threat. 

Tortorella sees that same spark in Foerster's shooting ability, with Foerster's wrist shot showing shades of Panarin's in terms of its quick release and accuracy. Tortorella, a coach known for his high standards, doesn't hand out comparisons like this lightly, and it speaks to just how much potential he sees in Foerster's hands.

Foerster's shooting prowess was on display last season, his rookie year, where he quickly demonstrated his knack for finding the back of the net, even if it wasn't always consistent. His offensive contributions (20 goals and 13 assists in 77 games) showed promise, but Tortorella's comparison suggests Foerster is capable of much more.

Panarin's shot has been an essential tool in his rise to superstardom, and for Tortorella, there's a hope that Foerster can channel that same sharp shooting ability to become a reliable scorer. But for Foerster, moving from potential to consistency will be crucial in realizing this comparison in full. 

Tyson Foerster.

What makes this comaprison especially intriguing is Tortorella's track record with Panarin himself. In Columbus, Tortorella was pivotal in Panarin's growth, shaping him from a raw talent into a refined, two-way threat.

While Panarin was already highly-skilled, Tortorella pushed him to elevate his play, emphasizing the importance of defensive commitment and balanced contributions. The result was a well-rounded player whose impact was felt all over the ice, and the evolution under Tortorella's guidance prepared Panarin to thrive at the highest level.

For Foerster, this mentorship could be invaluable. Tortorella's belief in Foerster's potential isn't just in his skill but in his ability to become a balanced player, much like Panarin did. While Foerster's game currently lacks Panarin's refined versatility, the foundation Tortorella is building could lead to a similar trajectory.

Despite the praise, Tortorella recognizes that Foerster still has considerable work to do to reach Panarin's level. Panarin's game is built not only on scoring but also on his ability to create space, read plays, and navigate defensive pressure—all areas where Foerster is still finding his footing. Panarin's hockey IQ is one of his defining traits, allowing him to anticipate plays and outmaneuver opponents. For Foerster, developing this strategic awareness will be essential to taking the next step.

Philadelphia Flyers forward Tyson Foerster (71) scores a goal as Minnesota Wild defenseman Zach Bogosian (24) defends during the third period at Xcel Energy Center

Additionally, consistency is the biggest hurdle Foerster must overcome to elevate his game. Panarin has established himself as a reliable, night-in-and-night-out producer, a trait that Foerster struggled with in his rookie season. He showed flashes of brilliance and had hot streaks that hinted at his potential, but those moments were interspersed with stretches where his impact on the scoresheet was minimal.

Tortorella's comparison is, in part, an invitation to Foerster to develop this consistency and bring that Panarin-esque shot to every game. Foerster also faces the challenge of working within his head coach's structured, defense-first system. Panarin thrived under Tortorella's system because he learned to contribute on both ends of the ice, blending his offensive skills with defensive discipline.

Foerster will need to find a similar balance, proving he can handle the responsibilities of Tortorella's system while also utilizing his shooting and offensive instincts. It's a balancing act that could take time, but it's one that, if successful, could make Foerster an invaluable asset to the Flyers.

Foerster's development under Tortorella's guidance is a story worth watching, especially as the coach continues to place him in the spotlight with the Panarin comparison. It's a high bar, and there are challenges ahead, but Tortorella's belief in Foerster suggests he sees something unique—something that could possibly turn Foerster into a player of significant impact. With each game, Foerster has the chance to prove himself and take the steps necessary to transform raw skill into consistent contributions. 

For Flyers fans, Tortorella's praise offers a reason for optimism about Foerster's future. While he may still have miles to go before he can reach Panarin's level, the fact that his coach sees such potential is a powerful endorsement.