I get it but this organization and the fan base has a history of blaming coaches for team failures and coddling any half decent player. Terry Murray, Ken Hitchcock, Peter Laviolette. All these guys were good coaches who the players quit on and management and fans sided with the players. Enough already. This situation is different because Berube is nowhere near as talent as those guys but fans were saying the exact same thing about them at the end. I remember that there were fans who actually sided with Mike Richards who was only in his 2nd year as a player when he called out Hitchcock.
- psuhockey

That's simply life as an NHL coach. As Bill said, hired to be fired. I think a lot of the criticism of Berube is biased and really baseless. Not all of it of course, but most of it. Criticism towards his handling of the roster, as if Mike Babcock or any other coach could find a miracle cure for not having a top defense pair, or never more then one line playing consistent hockey at a time. Berube has made countless line changes and moved players all around the lineup. No matter what changes he made, there's holes somewhere else. Comments about X's and O's when changes are made that aren't even noticed. Claims that there was a lack of communication with players who were scratched, such a Del Zotto. It was pretty common knowledge why Berube scratched Del Zotto. Apparently Del Zotto was the only one who didn't know!

Here's the bottom line, we can debate individual issues forever, it's not going to change the results of this season. When a team struggles like this one has all season, change has to happen. The most likely and easiest change to make, is to make a coaching change. Regardless of how much blame anyone wants to put on Berube, can't keep the status quo there with how the season has played out.

That's a valid opinion to have. But you really need to follow it up with who you think he could be traded for.
- Feanor

... whatever they can get at equal value at this point. JvR at least showed spurts that he could potentially do what he was doing in Toronto. Schenn... he's shown he's nothing but a depth player at this point. I don't see him going anywhere and having a few 30+ goal seasons... I'm more for trading him for whatever you can, while you can, before his contract expires and you get nothing for him... since at this point, I certainly wouldn't re-sign him, unless it was for around $1m/yr..

jmo...

They won't do it, but that's actually the deal that needs to be made: JVR for Brayden Schenn and a pick
- AllInForFlyers

The pick they would ask for is the TB pick.

The pick they would ask for is the TB pick.
- MJL

I wouldn't say no to that, tbh

I know some are dead-set on making that pick, so I expect the flames to burn brightly on that opinion

But my thinking is this: If you make that pick, you're wanting that guy to do what JVR does

... whatever they can get at equal value at this point. JvR at least showed spurts that he could potentially do what he was doing in Toronto. Schenn... he's shown he's nothing but a depth player at this point. I don't see him going anywhere and having a few 30+ goal seasons... I'm more for trading him for whatever you can, while you can, before his contract expires and you get nothing for him... since at this point, I certainly wouldn't re-sign him, unless it was for around $1m/yr..

jmo...
- WarriorHockey21

I'm fine if they move BSchenn for a natural LW, but he has a lot more value than $1m a year on his next deal. And he will be an RFA, so his current deal is not going to "expire".

I get it but this organization and the fan base has a history of blaming coaches for team failures and coddling any half decent player. Terry Murray, Ken Hitchcock, Peter Laviolette. All these guys were good coaches who the players quit on and management and fans sided with the players. Enough already. This situation is different because Berube is nowhere near as talent as those guys but fans were saying the exact same thing about them at the end. I remember that there were fans who actually sided with Mike Richards who was only in his 2nd year as a player when he called out Hitchcock.
- psuhockey

There is a lot of blame the coach mentality in Philly-not just among Flyer fans, either. Murray probably returns if he doesn't make the "choking situation" comment, regardless of how right it was. Laviolette's stubbornness was his undoing. Holmgren did fail to get him the players needed for his system, but at the end of the day, the coach has to adjust to the reality of his roster.

I think Hitchcock was really the one guy who got buried unfairly. He was handed a real poop sandwich by the outgoing Clarke, who was burned out and didn't even really make a great effort the summer before the Year That Shall Not Be Named that cost Hitch his gig as coach. At least Hextall was out trying to land Weber, Parise and Suter for Lavy. He didn't sit on his hands and start out targeting the Mark Cullens and Nolan Baumgartners. he had to settle on them after swinging for the fences and missing.

That's simply life as an NHL coach. As Bill said, hired to be fired. I think a lot of the criticism of Berube is biased and really baseless. Not all of it of course, but most of it. Criticism towards his handling of the roster, as if Mike Babcock or any other coach could find a miracle cure for not having a top defense pair, or never more then one line playing consistent hockey at a time. Berube has made countless line changes and moved players all around the lineup. No matter what changes he made, there's holes somewhere else. Comments about X's and O's when changes are made that aren't even noticed. Claims that there was a lack of communication with players who were scratched, such a Del Zotto. It was pretty common knowledge why Berube scratched Del Zotto. Apparently Del Zotto was the only one who didn't know!

Here's the bottom line, we can debate individual issues forever, it's not going to change the results of this season. When a team struggles like this one has all season, change has to happen. The most likely and easiest change to make, is to make a coaching change. Regardless of how much blame anyone wants to put on Berube, can't keep the status quo there with how the season has played out.
- MJL

I don't know. I dont think it is automatic that Berube would be canned just based on their record right now. The Umberger injury stuff is Hexys area. The goaltending situation with Reese/mason I think is too much for Hexy to ignore. You have players on the locker room not understanding/questioning the coaches decisions in that regard and thats a recipe for a dismissal

... whatever they can get at equal value at this point. JvR at least showed spurts that he could potentially do what he was doing in Toronto. Schenn... he's shown he's nothing but a depth player at this point. I don't see him going anywhere and having a few 30+ goal seasons... I'm more for trading him for whatever you can, while you can, before his contract expires and you get nothing for him... since at this point, I certainly wouldn't re-sign him, unless it was for around $1m/yr..

jmo...
- WarriorHockey21

I don't get this comment. B. Schenn is a fine young player, still finding his game. Patience.

He is worth well over 1m. But if you think he is really worth 1m and you want to trade him for his 'value' you will end up with a Rinaldo type player in return. Still want to trade him?

They won't do it, but that's actually the deal that needs to be made: JVR for Brayden Schenn and a pick
- AllInForFlyers

I wouldn't do that, because the Leafs will want a 1st rounder, and there's no way I trade that much for JvR.

There is a lot of blame the coach mentality in Philly-not just among Flyer fans, either. Murray probably returns if he doesn't make the "choking situation" comment, regardless of how right it was. Laviolette's stubbornness was his undoing. Holmgren did fail to get him the players needed for his system, but at the end of the day, the coach has to adjust to the reality of his roster.

I think Hitchcock was really the one guy who got buried unfairly. He was handed a real poop sandwich by the outgoing Clarke, who was burned out and didn't even really make a great effort the summer before the Year That Shall Not Be Named that cost Hitch his gig as coach. At least Hextall was out trying to land Weber, Parise and Suter for Lavy. He didn't sit on his hands and start out targeting the Mark Cullens and Nolan Baumgartners. he had to settle on them after swinging for the fences and missing.
- Jsaquella

Hitch had to go, though -- I will always believe he signed his death warrant when he said that Richards was a third-line center when the Flyers needed Richards to be more than that

Thanks Bill. I am glad that you are consistent with your reporting, and keeping up with the team activities. Unlike the Flyers play, I enjoy your articles very much. In addition, I don't always have time to keep up with the team, and you help me do that with your articles.
I do not questions Chief's work ethic one bit. As mentioned, there are a few flaws that I noticed with his coaching. The most glaring was patience. Patience with the players adjusting to line changes, and with the goalie situation. Most scorers have to feel comfortable with their line mates, and will have droughts now, and again. To shuffle the lines consistently doesn't help, in my opinion. The other stand out was dealing with the media. Chief needs to try to keep things in house, and between the players. Calling someone out only hurts the coach, and player's relationship.
This season was a mess, and everyone was at fault. At times, I thought that Chief was desperate to try anything to get this team motivated. Yelling or negative reinforcement usually creates hostility, and revolt. However, you can't baby these players as well. Finding the right balance is key to being a good coach. He also played favorites. How many times have we been frustrated with Rinaldo's play. I don't knock him as a person, I just question his judgement at times; ie. taking bad penalties, and wanting too do too much (penalty kill).
Another coach who liked to play certain players, and pushed too hard was Keenan. He burned players out, and alienated others quickly from what I have read.
The coaching search will be an interesting one. Will we go with the veteran coach, or bring someone up through the ranks? Hitch, from what I can recall, is the last veteran coach that we had.
Good luck with your search Hexy.

I'm fine if they move BSchenn for a natural LW, but he has a lot more value than $1m a year on his next deal. And he will be an RFA, so his current deal is not going to "expire".
- Feanor

Ah.. forgot he was an RFA.

I meant he's playing at a $1million level.

I would love to move BSchenn for a guy like Niederreiter, but he wouldn't get that return.

There needs to be changes. I'm sorry, but some people just won't admit that B. Schenn and Couturier will never meet the expectations that have been placed upon them, fair or not. There's too much money wrapped up in Umberger, Lecavalier and MacDonald to really improve the team through free agency. Even if Ghost and Morin make the team out of camp next year, there will be a steep learning curve for both of them. Sad to say, but I think this team has huge roster issues
- aantny88

If Hexy Holds true to his gameplan we are going to see pretty much the same team again next year....

Thanks Bill. I am glad that you are consistent with your reporting, and keeping up with the team activities. Unlike the Flyers play, I enjoy your articles very much. In addition, I don't always have time to keep up with the team, and you help me do that with your articles.
I do not questions Chief's work ethic one bit. As mentioned, there are a few flaws that I noticed with his coaching. The most glaring was patience. Patience with the players adjusting to line changes, and with the goalie situation. Most scorers have to feel comfortable with their line mates, and will have droughts now, and again. To shuffle the lines consistently doesn't help, in my opinion. The other stand out was dealing with the media. Chief needs to try to keep things in house, and between the players. Calling someone out only hurts the coach, and player's relationship.
This season was a mess, and everyone was at fault. At times, I thought that Chief was desperate to try anything to get this team motivated. Yelling or negative reinforcement usually creates hostility, and revolt. However, you can't baby these players as well. Finding the right balance is key to being a good coach. He also played favorites. How many times have we been frustrated with Rinaldo's play. I don't knock him as a person, I just question his judgement at times; ie. taking bad penalties, and wanting too do too much (penalty kill).
Another coach who liked to play certain players, and pushed too hard was Keenan. He burned players out, and alienated others quickly from what I have read.
The coaching search will be an interesting one. Will we go with the veteran coach, or bring someone up through the ranks? Hitch, from what I can recall, is the last veteran coach that we had.
Good luck with your search Hexy.
- OrangeAndBlack1

Pretty accurate here

I wouldn't do that, because the Leafs will want a 1st rounder, and there's no way I trade that much for JvR.
- Jsaquella

Understood -- there's risk involved

But JVR's a 60-point winger now with a 30-goal season under his belt, with Tyler Bozak as his center

They would never re-acquire JVR, simply because of the optics involved

But I don't know that Schenn and the TB first isn't the going rate for that kind of production

I don't get this comment. B. Schenn is a fine young player, still finding his game. Patience.

He is worth well over 1m. But if you think he is really worth 1m and you want to trade him for his 'value' you will end up with a Rinaldo type player in return.
- coffee junkie

Problem is, he's going to be 24 this year and he hasn't shown much development at all. Forwards shouldn't take that long to "find their game", typically. Don't get me wrong, I've always liked Brayden, and the guy hustles... but I just don't see him getting anywhere near the expectations that were set for him when he arrived.

Still want to trade him?

If the price is right, yes.

I would love to move BSchenn for a guy like Niederreiter, but he wouldn't get that return.
- Feanor

Bschenn is infuriating. In the beginning of the year he was on fire, up on his skates, noticable shift in and out for about 6 weeks. Where did that player go?

Why not call a spade a spade? I don't care how much these guys are getting paid... I'M PAYING to see them, so you're damn right it pisses me off when an incompetent coach does things that are counter-productive instead of living in reality. I don't have a problem with him calling Mason out occasionally.. what I do have a problem with, is him ONLY calling him out, especially when he has been arguably the best and most consistent player for them this season... and he bases his criticism solely off of wins/losses?
- WarriorHockey21

a paid spade

If Hexy Holds true to his gameplan we are going to see pretty much the same team again next year....
- iskatefast

I think he's going to make moves. Or at least he's going to be out there trying to make moves. Hexy isn't going to be a wallflower, but he's also not going to make a move just for the sheer sake of doing something.

He's got a couple of situations that need addressing, even if next season will be a retooling season. They have to do something with Lecavalier. He's miserable, he doesn't fit and even with a new coach, I doubt he can be a positive asset that the team can use in their future.

They're also going to have to make a change behind the bench. Regardless of whether criticism is baseless or not, the bottom line is there are simply too many dysfunctional situations that involve the coach.

Understood -- there's risk involved

But JVR's a 60-point winger now with a 30-goal season under his belt, with Tyler Bozak as his center

They would never re-acquire JVR, simply because of the optics involved

But I don't know that Schenn and the TB first isn't the going rate for that kind of production
- AllInForFlyers

He's also still a player perceived as soft and inconsistent. He's one of the more glaring of the Leafs guys whose game fell off a cliff after the coaching change and during their tailspin.

Optics or not, they can't swap Schenn, plus a first, for a guy who is better, but has the same basic issues as Schenn.

Berube and his smoldering eyes sounds a bit toxic, and it seems he doesn't know how to handle injured players very well.

Bill Meltzer: Meltzer's Musings: Berube,
- bmeltzer

Excellent job as always Bill, as I've said before, we are very lucky to have you as our blogger.

Regarding Berube, I think he is basically an average NHL coach, but, at the end of the day, I want better than average. Also his handling of the goaltenders, especially Mason in recent days, is simply inexcusable, IMO.

The Flyers have been blessed in the past to have coaches like Fred Shero, Pat Quinn, Mike Keenan and Ken Hitchcock. Let's hope Hextall can find another guy like that to take this team back to contention.

All viable names, although I think Babcock wants more authority than just coaching and he won't get that here.

Dave Tippett would be good choice if the Coyotes let him go. Very structured style of play but also has had many of his teams overachieve (although certainly not this year).

Bylsma's name will probably come up, too.
- bmeltzer

Would be happy to see Tippett here, but I wouldn't be opposed to finding the next quality young coach outside the NHL, much like they did when they hired Keenan in 1984.

Would be happy to see Tippett here, but I wouldn't be opposed to finding the next quality young coach outside the NHL, much like they did when they hired Keenan in 1984.
- BiggE

It would be nice to get some fresh blood in for a change