Ethan Samson, the Flyers’ 2021 sixth-round draft pick (174th overall) turned heads during the 2025 Rookie Series, showcasing the offensive flair and defensive reliability that make him a promising prospect. At 22 years old, the right-shot defenseman from Delta, BC, signed an entry-level contract with the Flyers in December 2022 after a breakout junior season with the Prince George Cougars in the WHL, where he tallied 60 points (18 goals, 42 assists) in 62 games during 2022-23. His contract runs through the 2025-26 season, positioning him for a potential push toward NHL action this year.
- A young blue liner in Samson scored a highlight-reel goal in the second period of Game 2, ripping a sharp-angle shot from the left circle past Rangers prospect Callum Tung to cut the deficit to 2-1. Assists went to Nikita Grebenkin and Jack Moline.
- Samson also notched another goal in the series, contributing to the Flyers’ offense while demonstrating his ability to join the rush and create scoring chances from the blue line.
- He was spectacular” in the loss, with consistent physicality, smart retrievals, and crafty passing.
Samson’s efforts weren’t isolated— Lehigh Valley Phantoms Head Coach John Snowden, along with prospects Nikita Grebenkin and Alexis Gendron (who also scored in the series), spoke to the media post-series about the rookies’ growth. Even his former WHL team, the Prince George Cougars, celebrated his goal on social media, calling it “What a shot!”
This performance comes at a crucial time, as Samson enters his second full pro season aiming to transition from AHL regular to NHL contender. Areas for growth include shot accuracy, skating explosiveness, and hitting, but his two-way game—strong defensively with offensive instincts—has scouts optimistic.
Looking Ahead to Training Camp
With the Flyers’ main Training Camp set to begin next week (likely around September 18-20, 2025, at the Flyers Training Center in Voorhees, NJ, based on prior years), Samson is entering it on a high note. A strong camp could accelerate his timeline, potentially earning him Pre-Season games or an extended AHL stint with NHL call-up potential.
Overall, Samson’s “looking good” vibe is well-earned—this weekend’s showings have him trending upward as a depth defenseman who could contribute offensively in the pros. Flyers fans should keep an eye on him as camp unfolds; his physical, motor-driven style fits the team’s rebuild ethos.
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