Flyers to draft low, keep fingers crossed

0 Comments | Philadelphia Inquirer, The, June, 2008 | by Sam Carchidi Inquirer Staff Writer

There  is  a downside to the Flyers' surprising playoff run: They get a lousy position in the first round of Friday's NHL draft. Nevertheless, the club is hoping the player it drafts will make a mark down the road. The Flyers will select 27th overall, and before you start thinking that pickings are slim at that position, consider this: Jimmy Watson, Pelle Lindbergh, Ron Hextall, Rick Tocchet, Chris Therien and Vinny Prospal were among the Flyers selected much later than 27th.

Moreover, Simon Gagne, Mike Richards and Steve Downie are among the current Flyers who were chosen in the same draft neighborhood. Gagne was taken 22d, Richards 24th and Downie 29th. "I don't know if it'll be an impact player, but we think we can get a good prospect," general manager Paul Holmgren...