Is Forsberg Staying or Going?

When the Philadelphia Flyers made a deal to get Peter Forsberg to Philly, fans were excited to say the least. It seems that the Flyers always seem to play well throughout the season, but once playoffs roll around they never can finish the deal. Flyers fans were hoping that Forsberg would bring the extra push they needed to make it deep into the playoffs in the years to come. The 2006-2007 has not seen that happen. Forsberg has been out at least a third of the season watching games from the press box, and just isn't in the game enough to make a difference.

When Forsberg does play, the Flyers always have a chance of winning. He is one of the best play makers in hockey today. His health will determine what will happen to him at the end of the season. Forsberg is Philadelphia's current captain and a huge role player for the team. He can make or break the team. If Forsberg can remain healthy, he can turn the team around for next year. Although this all sounds nice and good, the reality is that Forsberg is prone to injury. He has been injured numerous times throughout his career and has never completed a full season in the NHL without missing games.

Many would say the Flyers are just plain playing poorly, but this is isn't the entire truth. Offensive production has been low, and this by no means will help the team win. But the major problem involved is that o the Flyers defense. Joni Pitkanen is the only competent and responsible Flyers defenseman. Pitkanen's line mate Derian Hatcher has seen better days in his career, and desperately needs to retire soon. Alexei Zhitnik brought some talent from the Islanders, and he has given the Flyers another responsible offensive defensemen.

The Flyers will be forced to deal Forsberg at the end of the season. With young players like Mike Richards and Jeff Carter, the Flyers have a bright future ahead of them. Forsberg will be dealt at the end of the season to either make salary cap room for free agents, or he will be dealt in a blockbuster deal. Forsberg has been in the league over ten years, but I don't believe he will be retiring anytime soon. Look for a big deal come season end where the Flyers should be looking to pick up an all-star defensemen or a deal for a number one goaltender.