Philadelphia Flyers: 2 Biggest Surprises Of The Season So Far

Every NHL team has now played 20 games this season, so we are starting to get a better understanding of what to expect from them moving forward. There have been certain players who have been big surprises thus far and it feels fair to shine a light on them. In this series, we will be looking at two from each team who certainly can be classified as that.

In this piece, we will be focusing on the Philadelphia Flyers. After a strong start, the Flyers lost 10 straight games and now find themselves near the bottom of the Metropolitan Division. However, they also have won three straight since, so all hope isn't lost. Although it's been a frustrating season for them so far, these two players have been nice stories to follow.

Derick Brassard: The Flyers signed Derick Brassard to a one-year, $825,000 contract late into the summer. At the time, it looked like a simple depth signing, but the veteran center has been exceeding expectations nicely. In 18 games, he has four goals and a respectable 11 points. Although he is currently injured, it feels necessary to give the 34-year-old some praise.

Max Willman: Max Willman has been a huge surprise, as not too many fans expected him to make Philadelphia's NHL roster at all this offseason. Yet, he has now played in 11 contests with the Flyers, where he has a goal and an assist. He also has spent time back with the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, too. In 13 AHL games, he has eight goals and 10 points. This is a player who was in the ECHL only two seasons ago, so props to him for making the show at 26 years old. Here's to hoping he can stick around in a bottom-six role.