Philadelphia Flyers Captain Sean Couturier To Be Healthy Scratched By John Tortorella

Couturier, who was appointed team captain on February 14, was seen skating with the group of players who typically get extra practice on game days, indicating that he will be a healthy scratch for the upcoming game.

According to Flyers' reporter Dylan H. Robillard, there were initial reports on Monday suggesting that Couturier might be benched for the game. Couturier currently holds the highest cap hit on the Flyers at $7.75 million and is in the second year of an eight-year contract extension lasting until the end of the 2029-30 season.

Although Couturier started the season strongly with 23 points in 31 games, his performance has declined recently. Over the last 27 games, he has only managed one goal and nine points. In his last nine games, he has recorded just one assist, with a significant drop in ice time compared to his season average.

The Flyers currently hold a record of 34-26-8 with 76 points, placing them third in the Metropolitan Division. They have a slim one-point lead over the Washington Capitals, who occupy the second Wild Card spot in the Eastern Conference, and are three points ahead of the New York Islanders, who have a game in hand.

Following their game against the Maple Leafs, the Flyers will face the Carolina Hurricanes on the road on Thursday and then host the Boston Bruins on Saturday afternoon.

Do you think scratching Couturier is the right move?