For a long time, the conversation surrounding the Flyers was about the rebuild, but making the playoffs and winning a series over their biggest rival changes that conversation.

The Flyers gave their fanbase meaningful hockey again and proved that this team could take a major step forward sooner than many people expected. They showed that they belong in the playoff conversation, and whether the organization is ready for it or not, expectations are now higher.

You cannot make the playoffs one season and then turn around the following year expecting everyone to be satisfied with simply seeing improvement. The standard has changed for the better.

The performance the Flyers received from Dan Vladar in net was a major reason the Flyers were able to take the step they did, and it helped give this team a chance to compete when expectations entering the season were much lower.

Players should expect more from themselves in 2026 and the coaching staff should expect more from the roster. The front office needs to do the same across the board, changing the way they approach trades and player acquisitions.

The Flyers are clearly betting on internal improvement heading into this season, and there is reason to believe that approach could work. This team has talented young players who are still figuring out exactly how good they can be. Another year of development could make a significant difference.

However, there are no guarantees in the NHL. Just because a young player had a strong season, it doesn’t automatically mean they will improve the following year. Players can take a step back, opponents can adjust to their game and injuries can change everything.

I don’t think the Flyers need to suddenly become Stanley Cup contenders overnight. That’s not what this is about. But this team made the playoffs last season, and they set a new standard for themselves. The Flyers start their regular season September 30th hosting the Pittsburgh Penguins who they eliminated in the first round of last seasons playoffs…and the hope of a strong start that would’ve otherwise have flooded this City, has now been placed by one of expectation. 

Whether those assured feelings will be validated though, is anyone’s guess…