Philadelphia Flyers Rumors: Vincent Lecavalier

Philadelphia Flyers Rumors: Vincent Lecavalier

On Monday morning, the Philadelphia Flyers announced that they had hired Dave Hakstol to be the 19^th head coach of the franchise. With the bench-boss situation handled, Ron Hextall must move on to other issues the franchise is facing. Crag Berube is gone and his successor has been named; but does this change what the Flyers want to do with Vincent Lecavalier?

When Lecavalier signed with the orange and black in the summer of 2013, he brought a very impressive hockey resume with him. In his 14 years with the Tampa Bay Lightning, Lecavlier recorded 874 points, 383 goals, and 491 assists. Vinny was viewed as a star for most of his career with Tampa Bay.

Unfortunately, things have not been the same for the 35-year-old from Bizard, Quebec since he joined the Flyers. In two seasons, Lecavalier has only managed 28 goals and 29 assists. He has in no way, shape, or form lived up to his reputation or his contract.

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Before Crarig Berube was fired, the popular train of thought was that Vinny would be sent packing in one way or another this offseason. One has to believe that the change in coach does not affect Hextall’s plan for Lecavalier. The general manager of the Flyers has made it clear that the relationship between the Flyers and Vincent Lecavalier has not worked out well for either party. Philadelphia will want to trade him; but that may be easier said then done. Lecavalier will bring an unpleasant contract with him, and it is hard to believe that many NHL franchises will be interested in paying him that price. It could be possible that a team one piece away from cup-contention and with money to spend could be interested; but it is doubtful.

It is more likely that the Flyers will resort to buying the 16-year veteran out. A buy-out is not the ideal option; but it might be Hextall’s only choice.

Jan 20, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins center Sidney Crosby (87) and Philadelphia Flyers center Vincent Lecavalier (40) battle for the puck during the third period at Wells Fargo Center. The Flyers defeated the Penguins, 3-2 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

At this point, there is nothing to be done to repair the relationship between the Flyers and Vincent Lecavalier. Both sides have shared their displeasure for the other, and it is time for them to part ways. In addition, Lecavalier clearly does not fit in with what Ron Hextall is attempting to create in Philadelphia. Hextall is changing the culture of the Flyers organization and trying to build a team that will be successful for years to come. There just is not any room for a 35-year-old veteran at the tail end of his career in this plan.

Although his tenure with the Flyers has been far from pretty, Vincent Lecavalier might have enough in the tank to be an asset to some franchise in the NHL. However, that franchise is not the Philadelphia Flyers, and one has to imagine that he is as good as gone.

Next: Flyers Should Pursue Trade for Rychel

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