Well, there is a Flyers' aesthetic.
While the days of the Broad Street Bullies are past, I don't want to watch an Eagles team that doesn't play tough defense nor a Flyers team that figure skates instead of hitting people.
Which is why I'm happy Hextall did his apprenticeship with the Kings.
There's a tradeoff between speed/skill and toughness, I'd just rather the Flyers err on the side of toughness.
One reason I don't care about whether we end up with Nico/Nolan is that while Nolan is bigger and more physical, from all accounts Nico is scrappy and plays defense and welcomes physical play. So no wimp factor here.
I like Konecny b/c he might be a little guy, but he has an edge, just has to add some muscle so he doesn't get himself killed doing stupid things like trying to check Buff. Cousins is little but also has that edge.
MacDonald has to go b/c he's a wimp, not just because he's mediocre. At least Manning will hit someone and clear the crease, just don't allow him to handle the puck.
The point is if you're a "real" Flyers fan, you want a team that hits and forechecks and plays high intensity, smart, 60 minute hockey over a team that's skilled and scores but is soft. You can win both ways, but I want to win the "Flyers way." Now it is the new millenium, no brain dead (we talkin' to you, Rinaldo) types allowed, no more goons, no big immobile defensemen.
Gudas is a good role model (aggressive up to the edge of the law, but not over the cliff). Couts may not be dirty but he's smart, responsible and not afraid of crowds. Provorov isn't as nasty as Gudas, but he uses his body and will protect his crease.
Like I said, it's a matter of aesthetics. I grew up with the "Bullies," and while that day is long gone, hockey is supposed to be a tough, physical game, not the Ice Capades. And if you don't like it, go root for the Maple Leafs.