Cam Atkinson desperately looking for a spark
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Travis PolitakisJanuary 3, 2024 (12:48)
Photo credit: New England Hockey Journal
When Cam Atkinson became a Philadelphia Flyer in 2021, Atkinson produced well early as he scored 23 goals in his first year as a Flyer along with 27 assists to give him 50 points. Atkinson was a key to the Flyers offense and has had that ability throughout his NHL career as he racked up six seasons with over 20 goals, including a 41 goal season with the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2019.
Last season, Atkinson missed the entire year with a neck injury that required surgery and was ready to be a key member of the Flyers offense in 2023. This season, however, has been a struggle for Atkinson.
His season started strong as he scored five goals and eight points in their first ten games. However, Atkinson has been in a slump the last month plus. Atkinson has not scored in 22 consecutive games and really seems to be pressured to produce.
Atkinson has had some tough bounces including a near goal against Nashville on Dec. 21 that showed Atkinson visibly frustrated afterwards. Atkinson has been constantly putting in the work whether its extra meetings with Coach Tortorella or staying after practice for some extra skate work, Atkinson is really trying to get something going.
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Tortorella has moved him around in the lineup, even dropping him to the fourth line at times, but Atkinson still hasn't been able to get anything going.
"It hasn't gone my way as of late, but there's one thing I can control and that's my energy and my anticipation, which I kind of got away from. Sometimes having a talk like that kind of sets you back in a good way. Kind of reflect and I've got to look in the mirror. I just have to get back to my old way."
Atkinson has made some solid plays defensively such as blocking a shot with his foot against Vancouver as well as delivering a big hit, coming to his teammate Joel Farabee's aid, but the Flyers really need Atkinson's offense to start clicking.
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