Mike was one of the more quiet-type of captains that led by example, but he was one of the fiercest teammates that I’ve ever played with. He led by his actions more than anything. If it was big game, he’s one guy that I want on my side. - Danny Briere
MIKE RICHARDS2008-09 through 2010-11
Mike Richards was tabbed early on in his career to be a part of the “new-look” Flyers leadership group wearing the alternate captains “A” in 2007-08.
One year later, Richards officially took over the reigns of the Flyers youth movement and the team took off.
A finalist for the NHL’s Frank J. Selke Trophy for the best defensive forward, Richards led the NHL in shorthanded goals and the team in assists (48), power-play points (32) and plus/minus (+24), while ranking second in points (78) and for the second consecutive year was awarded the Bobby Clarke Trophy as team MVP in 2008-09.
Perhaps his greatest accomplishment was leading the Flyers to their improbably run to their first Eastern Conference Championship and Stanley Cup Final appearance in the 2009-10 season as the seventh seed in the Conference.
All told, Richards compiled 133 goals and 349 points in 453 NHL games as a Flyer. In addition, he added 34 assists and 50 points in 63 Stanley Cup Playoff games in an Orange & Black sweater.
