[Chris]

Inside The Flyers: Kevin Marshall

In a draft that was interestingly quiet in terms of swapping picks for players, the Flyers did make a deal on Saturday. Philadelphia moved their third round selection and next year's second round choice to the Washington Capitals in exchange for the selection of defenseman Kevin Marshall.

Apparently, Marshall has been high on the Flyers' brass lists for quite some time now. GM Paul Holmgren would not be making another appearance at the podium until the third round, and it was presumed that Marshall would be taken before such time, so the deal was agreed on and executed. Kevin Marshall is now a Philadelphia Flyer.

Kevin Marshall, who?
Kevin Marshall most recently played for Lewiston of the QMJHL, racking up 32 points in 70 games with a +34 rating. Marshall is scouted as a gritty, reliable defensive presence with smooth acceleration and great straight-line strides. He was described by his former teammates as a hard-worker that never gives up on a play, he also is known for taking on bigger opposing forwards and finding ways to stop them from advancing. Marshall is also highlighted on the need to improve his shooting power, stickhandling, and basic checking ability. He knows how to be physical, but must find ways to stay out of the penalty box. Assuming his development continues in a positive light, Marshall is going to be a shut down defenseman who gets the job done with a combination of physicality, reliability, and superb decision making.

[tmcc]

Well, I've agreed with I'd say all of Homer's moves this off season, he seems to know what the team needs and what he wants. He obviously went after this kid whole heartdly feeling that he's a must for the future. I'll take his word for it, as of now.

[Drew]

I really like this guy. Sleeper of a pick really, and it seems the Flyers had him targeted. I like the way he talks, quite a head on his shoulders already. Reminds me a bit like Chelios.

[dutch74]

From some of his interviews, he thinks of himself as a Chelios-type player... so a little cocky too... just what we need on the blueline, someone with some fire. I like it... I have a feeling we'll see Marshall before Reimy

[PA_NICE_GUY]

I read the Flyers were considering him at #23, before trading the pick back to Nashville.

So getting him where they did is good if they were going to take him that high. I think he might be a fan favorite in a few years.

[tmcc]

Kid is really cocky in recent interviews... I like it, we need some attitude / emotion for the future.

[Blindside]

Originally Posted by dutch74

I have a feeling we'll see Marshall before Reimy

I wouldn't quite go that far Dutch. He sounds like a good kid and all, but JVR is a very complete package already. His skillset is perfect for the "new NHL" in that he's very fast, good on his skates, possesses great vision of plays developing and has a great release on his shot. Scary thing is that he'll get even bigger and stronger.
Marshall sounds like a great prospect and a hard-working player, but he's still young and we're not hurting for young defensemen in our cupboards like we were at the start of the year.
Really, the only thing that may prevent us from seeing JVR before Marshall is if JVR spends all of his 4 year eligibility in the NCAA.

[dutch74]

scouts and analysts are saying that it is going to be 7 years before JVR is producing at a high level in the NHL... being a d-man, Marshall doesn't have to polish his game as much as JVR will have too. He's more of a stay-at-home dman anyways... so those guys don't take as long to develop as, say, someone like Pitkanen.

not that I'll mind if JVR shows sooner... that kid is a monster

[tmcc]

All I have to say is, I can't wait til Philly is chanting the phrase J - V - R!!!! So cool.

Marshall could be ready very soon, 2-4 years possibly?