5 questions to ponder about the Flyers

1. Can Ilya Bryzgalov rebound?

After a rough start to his first season with the Flyers, Bryzgalov was one of the NHL's hottest goaltenders last year, nearly breaking the modern-day shutout streak record from March 1-15, 2012. A high-ankle sprain sidelined Bryzgalov just before the postseason, when he was lit up by the Penguins in one of the most high-scoring series in Stanley Cup playoff history. Bryzgalov, 32, says he knows more about Philadelphia, the franchise, the city, the media and the fans this time around. He seems more relaxed, more patient, and more comfortable. We'll see whether it helps him in the crease.

2. Does the shortened season help or hurt?

For the most part, all teams will be in the same boat when it comes to the 48-game season. The Flyers will play 48 games in 97 days; they played a nearly similar amount in the second half of last season. This time, they don't have to visit the Western Conference. Only the Islanders, Rangers and Devils will travel fewer miles this season than the Flyers. And the Flyers also have the benefit of a 5-day rest in the middle of March - a definite rarity in this condensed schedule.

3. Who will be the Flyers' biggest surprise?

Ruslan Fedotenko has been one of the least-talked about additions from the summer. But Fedotenko, 34, has won two Stanley Cups with two different teams. He is in shape, having played in the KHL during the lockout. And he is an important locker-room presence, willing to take on a leadership role without a letter. He can play anywhere from the second to fourth line and he will add valuable points.

4. Where is the Flyers' biggest weakness?

Many will point to the defense, but I believe that to be the case only in the early going, with uncertainty surrounding Andrej Meszaros (Achilles') and depth players Erik Gustafsson (ankle) and Marc-Andre Bourdon (concussion). I believe the Flyers' biggest weakness is in their backup goaltender, Michael Leighton, who did not have a strong training camp. Yes, Bryzgalov is a workhorse. But Leighton, 31, could see a decent amount of work on back-to-back games and in busy weeks of a condensed schedule.

5. Where will the Flyers finish in the East?

The Penguins and Rangers established themselves last year as the class of the East - and that isn't expected to change. Boston is still strong, if Tuukka Rask can seamlessly replace Tim Thomas. The Flyers have question marks to start on defense and in net. The only problem is that two other teams - Washington and Carolina - should be vastly improved and will be competitors in the East.