This Philadelphia Flyers defenseman has the potential to break out in a big way this season.
It might be hard to believe, but the Philadelphia Flyers' regular-season opener is rapidly approaching. In just two weeks, the Flyers will kick off their regular-season against the Vancouver Canucks on Oct. 11.
The Flyers are entering this upcoming season with plenty of promising young players to keep an eye on. Among the most notable is defenseman Jamie Drysdale. The young defenseman underwent abdominal surgery back in April to repair a hernia. However, the right-shot defender is now healthy and will look to make a massive impact for the Flyers from here.
When noting that Drysdale is entering the season feeling good, he certainly is standing out as a prime breakout candidate. There is no question that the 2020 sixth-overall pick has tremendous upside, and he has already had some NHL success. Just back in 2021-22 with the Anaheim Ducks, he had four goals and 32 points in 81 games.
Since then, Drysdale has dealt with notable injury trouble, playing in just 42 games over the last two seasons. As a result, his development has been delayed a bit, but he absolutely still has time to take that next big step.
With Drysdale being viewed as a potential long-term part of the Flyers' defensive core, there is no question that the Metropolitan Division club will give him chances to succeed this season. He is projected to be in their top four and a crucial part of their power play. Thus, the possibility of him reaching new heights, both offensively and defensively, is there.
It will be fascinating to see what kind of season Drysdale puts together for the Flyers from here. It would benefit the Flyers greatly if he takes that next step forward.
