VIDEO: Brayden Schenn scores dazzling goal after criticism from Flyers GM
Brayden Schenn hears the criticism, and is doing his best to prove he can be a key player for the Philadelphia Flyers.
The forward has found himself well down the depth chart in training camp, playing right wing on a line with two others thought to be fighting for a roster spot (namely Scott Laughton and Chris Porter).
It's a curious spot for a player with 274 games of experience under his belt, especially a natural center with a left-handed shot. But Schenn certainly made the most of one opportunity during Friday's preseason game against the New York Islanders.
The goal came a day after general manager Ron Hextall said Schenn has been "OK" so far in training camp. In the offseason, the GM stated Schenn needs another good year under his belt before the team will commit long term.
Head coach Dave Hakstol reiterated the need to see more from Schenn.
"He's scored each night, but that's probably not the best way to evaluate the total performance," Hakstol told reporters. "There's some areas that he can become more complete in."
For Schenn, who's set to become a restricted free agent at season's end, it's all pushing him to put his best skate forward.
"That only motivates you," Schenn said. "I know how I value myself. If they want to say that, fine. Maybe they're trying to get me going, motivate me, I'm not sure. I just got to go out and do my job."
Schenn scored 18 goals and added 29 assists for a career-high 47 points last season.