Former Flyers right wing and newly-hired President of Hockey Operations Keith Jones is already making great strides to take the organization to the next level.
“Jonesy” joined The Preston & Steve Show to unveil the new Flyers jerseys. He rocked a burnt orange shirt to accompany the new burnt orange jersey theme.
The new uniform also features solid-colored numbers and thicker stripes. Not only does this make the number easier to see, but it is a nod to the original Flyers uniforms in 1967.
Independence Blue Cross has also announced a partnership that will include first-ever sponsored patch on a Flyers jersey.
After the full rundown of the jersey, it was time to talk hockey. Jonesy covered the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs as a national broadcaster to cap off his long career in the industry. He mentioned it felt weird traveling to a warm destination, like Florida or Vegas, to cover hockey.
After Vegas won the Stanley Cup, Jonesy did not even bother to stay and interview the players. He already had one foot out the door ready to shoot for his next goal: bringing that Stanley Cup to Philadelphia.
Wayne Gretzky- Flyers Great?
NHL legend and current TNT broadcaster Wayne Gretzky made a point to acknowledge his respect for Jones and Flyers franchise founder Ed Snider after the Stanley Cup.
“To Jonesy, good luck to you, man. We’re all going to miss you, and we know you’re going do a great job in Philadelphia. I know Mr. Snider’s looking down, and he knows he got the right guy to do that job. Good luck to you, Jonesy.” -Wayne Gretzky
Not a bad farewell from the greatest hockey player who ever lived.
Jones admitted it was actually his first time hearing the audio. He went on to express his gratitude and love for his friendship with Gretzky. He even mentioned that Gretzky actually lived next to Mr. Snider for a while.
“He is a very good friend. He was a very good friend of Mr. Snider. He almost came to Philadelphia. He almost came to play for the Flyers. He ended up going to New York. He’s told me the story many times. He thought he was coming to Philadelphia… he loves the Flyers.” -Keith Jones
Gretzky signed with the New York Rangers in July 1996 just over two years before Jones came to the Flyers. Imagine “The Great One” wearing orange and black.
The revered brand might be even more respected if Wayne Gretzky Flyers jerseys started flying off the shelves in the late 1990s.
“He holds our team and our franchise in high esteem.” -Jones
Keith Jones has more stories than almost anyone you’ll meet, and he saved another stunner about an NHL legend for Preston & Steve.
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