Philadelphia Flyers: Nicolas Aube-Kubel eager to prove himself

With a chance to take part in his first Flyers postseason, Nicolas Aube-Kubel is eager to prove he belongs in this league.

It took quite some time before Nicolas Aube-Kubel was able to make a name for himself with the Flyers. Under Alain Vigneault, the young Flyers rookie finally has his chance.

The points have begun to show and the trust has been earned. Aube-Kubel, despite mostly appearing on the fourth line, has earned the trust from his head coach.

His ice time is above 11 minutes per game and he has seen some minor special teams time as well. It’s a huge step up from the limited amount of time he had gotten before.

Aube-Kubel is one of a few Flyers who have returned to the area to begin skating. He first appeared on the ice on Friday, taking part in his first full week starting this past Monday.

Echoed by many of his other teammates, Aube-Kubel has enjoyed catching up and getting back on the ice. When it comes to feeling like one of them, it may take a bit longer. His spot this season was secured, but time will tell for the future.

"“It’s hard to say that because I only played half a season,” he said. “For sure, I’ll see after the playoffs. Hopefully we make a statement in those playoffs and I get my spot for next year.”"

The signs were there this past year as he collecting 15 points in 36 games. His first NHL goal came this season as well. In fact, everything he put up this season was a first.

Aube-Kubel finished second among Flyers rookie forwards in points. Joel Farabee finished ahead of him with 21 points. He was third overall among rookies. Philippe Myers, considered a rookie this season, finished just ahead of him with 16 points.

Aube-Kubel also echoed statements by Sean Couturier and Ivan Provorov when it came to the playoffs. He feels the Flyers are in a great spot as one of the top teams in the East.

And with the naturally gifted players the team has, Aube-Kubel sees that as a positive going forward.