Thanks for bringing back the mailbag. Always a great read.

That said I still think at the end of 4 years it would be time to start wondering. Obviously, a bunch of factors could push it one way of the other. Something you mentioned about the goalies got me thinking if the plan is to wait on EV getting here & then he shows up & gives us a Koly the goalie season that would be a huge red flag. I feel like part of what gets some of these teams into long playoff droughts is thinking they have the right group to lead but they start with we need 2-3 years to evaluate & remove the bad pieces. Then it will take another 2-3 to build it the way we want. Next thing you know its 4-6 years of being in the 6-12 range & no reason to think they can make the next step.

charlie,

your content volume (and of course, quality), almost singlehandedly make the subscription worth it! Love it. Keep up the great work!

It would seem to me that the quickest turnaround strategy for a club is to go get the 1-C, 1-D, and 1-G first and foremost, even if it means an overpay in a trade (like the did to get Lindros, but which led to a fast turnaround). I do not see Briere and Jones going that route. Everything is for sale at the right price. So, given the lack of these three key position players, do the Flyers have the cap room to sign McDavid in next year’s FA market? Can they give him the highest and longest allowed contract in NHL history to get this done? Chris Pronger, Mark Howe, Desjardin, Flyers also need to find a 1-D like one of these types, and again overpay to get him here, whether in trade, or FA. Would love to see a more aggressive approach from the GM to land these key three spots, sooner rather than later. The Eagles and Phils have both done a very good job being aggressive to sign, trade for, or develop top shelf superstars at key positions. The Flyers so far, have not.

Love your stuff Charlie. You’re the main reason to subscribe to this website.

But. More expansion teams? That get all good players right away? As you would say: “Disgusting.” 32 teams is plenty for any major league.

You can add Gary Dornhoefer to the great players who wore number 12.

Great stuff, as always.

Charlie: After Athens, go to Crete… Kedrodasos Beach is the play. Also drive Therisos Gorge. Eat everywhere and brace yourself for the raki they’ll give you after each meal. The warmest people I’ve ever met.

Cheers from Canada!

Charlie you’re the only reason I subscribe to this website so please, please don’t think that podcasts replace writing. Keep it coming and thank you.

Great mailbag, Charlie! I appreciate your honest responses, much respect. ✊

Man it’s been almost an entire month since a Charlie article.