Ryan Hartman is returning to the team that drafted him on Thursday.
Hartman was drafted 30th overall to the Chicago Blackhawks in 2013. During his three-year stint as a Hawk, Hartman won a Stanley Cup with them in 2015.
Hartman has always been someone who can utilize his play making ability while also being a physical force out on the ice. He was that physical force for the Hawks, having eight fights during his three years within the organization.
Now, Hartman plays for the Flyers, having been acquired for Wayne Simmonds at the trade deadline.
So far, Hartman has shown what his physical abilities can do since his first shift with the Flyers, coming out of the gates with a big hit on Rasmus Dahlin of the Buffalo Sabres, followed up with a scrap against Zach Bogosian.
The bottom six winger sticks up for his teammates, is strong on puck battles, and a strong body among the boards. However, he only has one goal in eight games with the Flyers, and only 11 goals this season.
The physicality of Hartman’s play isn’t lacking. But the points aren’t as impressive.
Hartman is coming to the Flyers from the Nashville Predators, which is where he was dealt to by the Hawks.
Last season, Hartman had 11 goals and 20 assists in 78 games while playing in Chicago and Nashville.
In Nashville, Hartman played for ex-Flyers coach Peter Laviolette. He wasn’t there for a full season, but while he was a Predator he had 13 goals and 13 assists in 85 games.
While he may not be putting up the numbers to prove it, Hartman knows how to make plays happen on the ice and can handle the puck well.
Hartman’s first goal with the Flyers was from him controlling his own rebound. And earlier this month he had the secondary assist on the Van Riemsdyk goal against the New Jersey Devils, handling the puck behind the net intelligently.
Hartman is only 24, so if given the chance, the winger may be able to prove he’s more than a bottom six player.
Julia Kender @JK_Kender
image credit: philly.com
brotherlypuck.com 