Get a house. It went nearly unnoticed, but rookie Simon Gagne played his 10th NHL game in Sunday's win over Florida. Since he remained on the Flyers' roster, he is now considered as having played one year of pro hockey. Gagne can still be sent back to juniors at any time. However, if he is sent back, he can't return to the Flyers until his junior club's season ends. Gagne said Neilson told him to find a permanent place because he is staying with the club.

"I feel more comfortable," Gagne said. "I have to work all the time and prove I can play. It's good that I can move out of the hotel now."

7. Simon Gagne, Philadelphia (19, 6-0, 175, C, Quebec/QMJHL, 61-50-70-120). One of 13 underage juniors who will start the season on an NHL roster, the Flyers have teamed the talented center with veteran Mark Recchi on the No. 2 line. A star at last year's World Junior Championship, the Flyers' 1998 first-rounder will be given every opportunity to flourish, but could be returned to junior before his 10th game. "Is he ready?" said Flyers' GM Bob Clarke. "I don't know, it may be a stretch, but he can really pass and see the ice. He's really smooth, he's so slick. He's not your typical Flyer. He'll get a chance."