from Jeff Simmons of Sportsnet,

Biggest story line to watch: Without Hartnell, the Flyers created a sizeable hole at the top of their forward group. Hartnell was a strong fit alongside centre Giroux and right winger Vorcaek on the first line, so Berube and the coaching staff must quickly find an adequate replacement. Early reports indicate Umberger could be a fit in that role, but he hardly provides the size and physicality that worked so well with the two scorers. Others in consideration are Schenn, Vincent Lecavalier and Michael Raffl, who all saw time in the role last year.

2014-15 prediction: Despite the Flyers’ strength up front, Philly will take a minor step back without Hartnell and fail to qualify for the playoffs. They don’t have enough on the back end. Philly finishes ninth in the Eastern Conference standings.

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