Since Swift is a Pennsylvania native, I thought I would rework a story idea that originated on our Canucks site and see which Philadelphia Flyers players align best with Swift's 11 distinctive and iconic album eras.
Taylor Swift finishes her historic Eras Tour tonight in Vancouver—an ambitious outing that spanned two years, 152 shows, and five continents; where Swift performs 44 songs over a 3.5 show (as someone who attended Philadelphia N1—it's just as magical as you would think).
And since Swift is a Pennsylvania native, I thought I would rework a story idea that originated on our Canucks site and see which Philadelphia Flyers players align best with Swift's 11 distinctive and iconic album eras.
Taylor Swift (2006): Noah Cates
Innocent, earnest, and quietly impressive, Taylor Swift represents a player who thrives through consistency and hard work. That’s Noah Cates.
Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Emil Andrae (36) and forwards Noah Cates (27) and Scott Laughton (21) during Flyers practice.
Like Swift’s early country charm, Cates doesn’t rely on flash to make an impact. He’s reliable, steady, and unassuming, but there’s no mistaking his importance. Whether on the penalty kill or in clutch defensive moments, Cates delivers with a quiet confidence that’s foundational to the Flyers’ success—just as Taylor Swift was to Swift’s career.
Fearless (2008) - Travis Konecny
Fearless is bold, cheeky, and full of energy—just like Travis Konecny.
Philadelphia Flyers winger Travis Konecny (11).
The album’s breakout energy parallels Konecny’s relentless drive on the ice and his, ahem, fearless approach to stirring the pot or buzzing around the crease, making sure no defender gets too comfortable. Fearless cemented Taylor Swift as a superstar, and Konecny has done the same as a leader and dynamic presence for the Flyers.
Speak Now (2010) - Sean Couturier
Mature yet emotional, Speak Now is an album about growth and reflection, much like Sean Couturier’s career.
Philadelphia Flyers captain Sean Couturier (14).
As one of the Flyers’ most respected veterans, Couturier brings a quiet leadership and versatility that mirrors the thoughtful storytelling of Speak Now. He’s not always the loudest voice, but when he speaks (or plays), you listen. This album feels like a perfect match for Coots’ graceful yet commanding presence.
Red (2012) - Travis Sanheim
I could've taken the easy way out and make a joke about one of the Flyers' redheaded players this album, but Sanheim embodies Swift's fourth album in a way that goes beyond the titular color.
Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Travis Sanheim (6) against the San Jose Sharks at the Wells Fargo Center.
Red is all about highs and lows, heartbreak and elation—exactly what Flyers fans have experienced with Sanheim. His journey to becoming the team’s top defenseman has been full of ups and downs, but now he’s delivering an emotional, fiery performance every night. Sanheim’s willingness to leave it all on the ice resonates with the vivid, heart-on-sleeve essence of Red.
1989 (2014) - Matvei Michkov
Big, bold, sleek, polished, and undeniably stylish, 1989 was Swift’s evolution into a more confident, refined version of herself.
Philadelphia Flyers winger Matvei Michkov (39).
Matvei Michkov’s flashy and ambitious game has been the talk of the league this season, much like 1989 was one of the biggest pop culture moments of 2014. He brings a new kind of energy to the team that 1989 brought to Swift's discography, and his penchant for clutch goals, highlight-reel plays, and unabashed confidence are ushering in a new era of Flyers hockey—much like 1989 ushered fans into a new pure pop era of Swift.
reputation (2017) - Ivan Fedotov
Intense, commanding, and a little mysterious, Reputation aligns with Ivan Fedotov’s imposing presence in net.
Philadelphia Flyers goaltender Ivan Fedotov (82) and winger Travis Konecny (11) after the Flyers' 5-2 win over the Buffalo Sabres at the Wells Fargo Center.
This album is all about proving doubters wrong, and Fedotov has done just that after stepping into the NHL spotlight and delivering clutch performances. A project about falling from grace, reflecting, finding your way back captures the intensity of Fedotov’s play and his ability to rise from the struggles of his first few games and come up big when it matters most.
Lover (2019) - Emil Andrae
Whimsical, heartfelt, and brimming with potential, Lover is the album for Emil Andrae.
Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Emil Andrae (36).
The Swedish defenseman’s creative style mirrors the dreamy tones and fresh-faced optimism of Swift’s seventh album. His puck-moving skills and vision on the ice embody the album’s romantic, artistic energy, making Andrae a natural fit for Lover’sbright and imaginative vibes.
folklore (2020) - Cam York
Thoughtful and introspective, folklore reflects Cam York’s cerebral approach to the game.
Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Cam York (8).
York plays with a quiet elegance, much like the nuanced storytelling and poetic depth of this album. Swift’s venture into spinning wistful tales in a genre she hadn’t explored before parallels York’s ability to weave a narrative with his controlled play, and adapt when needed—whether it’s quarterbacking a power play or making key defensive reads. He’s understated, yet indispensable—just like folklore.
evermore (2020) - Morgan Frost
Ambitious, intricate, and brimming with hidden layers, evermore is tailor-made for Morgan Frost.
Philadelphia Flyers forward Morgan Frost (48).
This album captures the dazzling creativity and depth that Frost brings to the Flyers. Like the complex storytelling in folklore’s "sister album", Michkov’s game is full of magic moments that reveal themselves the longer you watch. He’s unpredictable, electric, and maybe even underrated at times, but every time you go back and really pay attention, you can't miss how good he is.
Midnights (2022) - Joel Farabee
Midnights is a study in transformation, just like Joel Farabee’s 2024-25 season.
The album’s reflective themes of self-discovery and resilience match Farabee’s journey from being a young player drafted to the city he grew up a fan of to becoming a familiar and beloved figure in the organization.
Philadelphia Flyers winger Joel Farabee (86).
Tracks like “You’re On Your Own, Kid” echo his perseverance, while “Anti-Hero” reflects his newfound confidence and knack for pushing through the negative opinions of others to play his game. Farabee’s game has reached new heights, and Midnights is the perfect soundtrack for his redemption arc.
The Tortured Poets Department (2024) - Jett Luchanko
Okay, hes’ not on the NHL roster at the moment, but much like fans were shocked when Swift’s newest album was more about her situationship with The 1975 frontman Matty Healy rather than her long-term (now ex-) boyfriend Joe Alwyn, Flyers fans were shocked when Luchanko went from a draft pick with a rather lukewarm reception to the youngest player to ever debut for Philadelphia.
