#7: Philadelphia Flyers
Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
The Flyers and the Penguins were neck and neck to me. However, I have less faith in Steve Mason than I do in Marc-Andre Fleury as of right now. That said, it wouldn’t shock me at all if Mason has a Vezina finalist caliber season. The numbers are there. What’s not there is the durability and health needed to be one. Michal Neuvirth is the one of the more experienced backups in the division, but he is most likely not a very capable starter.
Mason could have a Vezina caliber season or he could once again be plagued by injuries. I think that it’s wise for the Flyers to keep giving Mason chances. He’s an extremely capable goaltender at worst. At best, he can be borderline Vezina good. The only thing holding him back is his health.
Next: Penguins