Three NHL clubs sit at crossroads before the season as the Flyers, Bruins and Kraken plot distinct paths. Philadelphia reshapes with Michkov, Zegras and Dvorak in focus, while goaltending remains a wild card and cap space tightens every move. Boston leans into a one-foot-in, one-foot-out rebuild with new pieces and heavy salaries locked in, testing how far Swayman, Pastrnak and McAvoy can carry them. Seattle injects youth and speed around Beneers and Kakko, betting on a high floor of competitiveness even as they chase a higher ceiling.

Fantasy turns on where scraps become scores: Michkov’s big-promise rookie appeal for PHI, Zegras’s playmaking upside in a Flyers lineup that’s still retooling, Kakko’s fit with Seattle’s grind-and-solve approach, and Beneers stepping into a pivotal role for the Kraken. The big question: which teams and players step forward enough to lift fantasy benches into real upside this season?

As goaltending and depth charts shuffle, managers should map lines, PP exposure and injury risk closely. The Flyers’ scoring talent is tantalizing but thin behind the top units; Boston’s core carries risk if extensions outpace on-ice value; Seattle’s balanced approach could yield steady production from multiple players rather than a singular breakout star. Track who seizes minutes and special-teams roles first.

The Philadelphia Flyers have made significant changes during the offseason, including hiring Rick Tocket as the new head coach. Tocket, a former player and well-regarded coach, aims to implement a more aggressive style of play, focusing on forechecking and physicality. This could significantly benefit young talents like Matvei Michkov, who thrives in a dynamic offensive environment. The Flyers also made a notable addition by acquiring Trevor Zegras from the Anaheim Ducks, a move expected to enhance their scoring potential. However, questions remain about Zegras's ability to adapt to the center position in Philadelphia's lineup, particularly given their current depth issues at that position.

As the Flyers continue their rebuild, the expectations for the upcoming season are modest, with management indicating that a significant turnaround is not anticipated. Moreover, the team is still searching for top-tier goaltending solutions and aims for improved performance on the blue line. The coaching staff will have the challenge of developing younger players while maintaining competitive play. Overall, the Flyers' commitment to a patient rebuild strategy may position them better for future success.