from Tim Panaccio of CSNPhilly,

General manager Paul Holmgren, who is taking a huge risk here with the deal and his job security given the state of the franchise, feels that Downie’s enthusiasm and ability will have a trickle-down effect.

Put it this way: If Downie can prod Giroux, plus somehow inspire the Flyers to regain confidence in themselves in the third period and turn things around, it’s a win.

If not? It’s a disaster.

From a season-ticket holder’s standpoint, judging by the internet comments, it’s anything but a “culture change” -- another ex-Flyer back in the fold instead of moving forward. To say fans are angry would be an understatement.

They see this deal as stale, more of the same.

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My opinion, if the Flyers need a player like Downie to provide inspiration, it tells me the team has bigger problems which need to be addressed.