Flyers Notes: Sam Morin and the “Tom Wilson Factor”
By Colin Newby
Are the Flyers Considering the “The Tom Wilson Factor” this year?
The Flyers were pushed around by the Washington Capitals last season, and they have been bullied by the New York Islanders in recent seasons too.
Wilson brings an element of intimidation to the Capitals. His ability to fight does not in itself bring much to the game. The threat of his physical play and opponents’ fear of his ability to fight, however, changes the game like few other NHL players can.
Morin can counter that x-factor if he plays his role the right way. Division teams are gearing up for physical battles this season. The Rangers acquired Wilson’s nemesis, Ryan Reaves, this offseason. Former enforcer Stu Grimson spoke recently about the importance of holding opponents accountable for their actions on the ice, regardless of whether or not the role of enforcers is diminishing.
Morin welcomes the role, according to his comments during his season exit interview in May about his role as a tough guy:
"“The stuff I bring, I don’t think a lot of guys bring it in this organization. It’s kind of like pretty rare now. I think I’m probably one of the toughest guys in the league too, to be honest.”"
A Pittsburgh Penguins outlet called Wilson, Reaves, Matt Martin of the Islanders, and Morin “legitimate heavyweights when the gloves hit the ice” in analysis of Grimson’s comments and the possibility of 6-foot-6 veteran Brian Boyle playing a similar role.
It’s good company for Morin to be mentioned with, and only time will tell if his old school style becomes prevalent again in the Metro in 2021-22.