5 Things we learned from Philadelphia Flyers’ homestand

Flyers without Hart again

Hart came out early against the Buffalo Sabres. How long is yet to be determined. He has played quite well so far this year, but much of that can be attributed to the stronger defense in front of him. Regardless, he has found his groove again.

With him out, the Flyers will now turn to their backups. So far, Sam Ersson has struggled in net. Felix Sandstrom had been sent to the AHL for conditioning. In addition, Cal Petersen has been playing poorly for the Lehigh Valley Phantoms. Petersen appears to have been called up to give Sandstrom time to condition himself without having to go through the waiver process.

This is a golden opportunity for Ersson, Petersen, and/or Sandstrom to show what they have. There have been lots of rumors all offseason about the future of Hart in Philadelphia. Are the Flyers committed to him, or are they prepared to move on?

Any of the three backups can use this opportunity to help the Flyers figure this out. If all three stumble, they may need to hang onto Hart. If someone rises to the occasion, it could make their decision much easier.