Ronald

Ron Hextall gets it.  He understands that a team needs to build through development.  Now he has his chance to change the way management has run the Flyers over the last few decades as the new general manager of the team.

I mentioned before I'd rather stay away from the big stories.  A lot has been made of this move which was clearly something coming for awhile.  The Holmgren move to president is how the Flyers still take care of former players and coaches.  In a sense he was let go without actually being fired.  Clarke received the same treatment.

For Flyers fans this can only be a good thing.  Management has constantly kept the same mentality over the years.  There are three ways I am aware of to acquire players.  You can trade, sign or draft.  With the win now approach many trades have come at the expense of younger talent.  Signings tend to be big contracts to veteran players slightly past their prime.  Flyers fans don't need a list.  That isn't how Hextall operates.

Hextall is all about building from within.  He wants to rely heavily on the draft.  He wants players to develop in the AHL first before making the step to the NHL, something that hasn't always happened in the past when the Flyers have rushed to judgement on young talent.  He isn't look to sign or acquire those same aging veterans the Flyers throw money at every season.  This is how it should be done.

I'm very interested in the moves Hextall makes during this off-season whether it is by trade, free agency or something through the draft.  The Flyers do have three picks in the first three rounds which now includes a higher first round pick then they hoped.  They should be able to land a solid talent in that position.  Hextall is the type who will value picks and try to acquire more instead of trading them away.  The Flyers are currently ranked last when it comes to prospects.  That has to change.

I'm excited.  This is exactly the type of guy that should get the opportunity to see what he can do.  It will take some time to stock up on young players.  The nice thing is that there are at least a few already with a positive upside.  An upside Hextall won't try to trade within two years.