What Rocky Thompson’s Firing Means For Next Year’s Philadelphia Flyers Power Play

Learning From the Past

There is one reasonable argument to the lack of success seen in Rocky Thompson‘s first two seasons overseeing the power play. That would be the fact that he wasn’t working with a highly- skilled group. During the 2023-24 season, setting up in the offensive zone was often difficult for them in all situations, including their power play. A couple aspects that edition lacked were a much needed proper playmaker and offensive defenceman. Considering that this was predominantly an issue regarding the team itself, Thompson would keep his position, despite his unit finishing the season last place in the league.

However, with the addition of superstar rookie, Matvei Michkov, as well as defenceman, Jamie Drysdale, displaying significant growth, the result of another ineffective power play unit would turn the attention to its leadership. Only improving to 30th in the league, Thompson then saw the end of his tenure with the Flyers.

Some Specific Upgrades

While Rocky Thompson guided the power play units in Philadelphia, they rarely saw success. Moreover, the Flyers haven’t seen their power play finish in the league’s top 16 in a full NHL season since their 2017-18 campaign. That iteration of the Flyers was sufficient in talent and saw them qualify for the playoffs. Fortunately, the Flyers’ general manager Daniel Briere recently stated that he’s ready to shift his mindset. He wants to make the shift from subtracting talent for assets to adding players with the intention of actively improving the team.

Imagining a power play with an improved Michkov and Drysdale with another highly skilled player alongside them is exciting to think about, especially if such an addition turned out to be a centreman. In that case, Sean Couturier could be moved to their second unit, allowing for both units to have solid net-front options and likely increasing their face-off win percentage. These may all seem like little things, but big picture, they all begin to add up.

Creating An Effective Flyers Power Play

Philadelphia could potentially have a more talented lineup next year. However, any success on their special teams won’t come without proper direction. For example, Owen Tippett‘s well known for his powerful shot and has already completed three-consecutive, 20-plus goal seasons. It is fair to presume that he’d be a great option for one-time shots on the power play which is why it’s shocking that he didn’t score a single goal during man advantages this year. He was often deployed on the flank or bumper instead of utilizing his right-handed shot from the left circle. Therefore, the Flyers’ power play unit is going to need to see a higher emphasis of each player’s strengths for a higher success rate next season.

It’s possible Briere looks externally, as offensive players, like a Nikolaj Ehlers may be available via free agency. Between a possible addition, and the continued growth of young players like Tippett, Michkov, and Drysdale, the template seems workable. Mix in a veteran on the top power play unit, and they become very versatile. Things are looking up in Philly, and maybe, just maybe, improving the power play is a great way to jump start that pathway to success.