There is no question that the Flyers lack Center depth within the organization. They tried shoring up this position with signing Rodrigo Abols and Anthony Richard to respective contracts. Of course, they are not expected to have an immediate impact with the orange and black, but it’s always nice to stockpile these type of players just in case.
There are a few available free agents that might catch the eye of Danny Briere, to which he could sign them to PTO’s, in other words, make it or break it type deals.
Sam Gagner
The Flyers originally acquired Gagner in an offseason trade with the Arizona Coyotes back in 2015. Nicklas Grossmann was also part of the deal, along with the remainder of Hall of Famer Chris Pronger’ contract. The Coyotes also received a conditional draft pick as part of the deal, as well.
Gagner was selected in the first-round by the Edmonton Oilers in the 2007 NHL Draft, and he was also waived by the Flyers during his brief stint with them.
The 35-year-old scored eight goals and totaled 16 points in 53 games with the Flyers. He also missed some time after suffering a concussion in a game versus the Carolina Hurricanes.
Gagner resurrected his career following his brief stint with the Flyers, and he has tons of experience. He would also provide much needed depth down the middle in case an injury arose.
Nick Cousins
Cousins would be an interesting signing to a PTO. He is fresh off winning the Stanley Cup with the Florida Panthers, but again he would provide much-needed depth down the middle for the orange and black.
This former Flyer has tons of experience, and really found a home following his stint with the Flyers. They could use him as a depth piece, and he could also provide tutelage for the youth, to include Matvei Michkov.
As expected, the Flyers are trying to surround their youth with some cup winning experience, and mentors. Cousins would more than fit that bill, and this would be a win-win type of deal.
Cal Clutterbuck
In sort of a shocking type move, the New York Islanders appear to be moving on from Clutterbuck. He’s got a motor that doesn’t stop running, and he’s always involved in the play.
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Clutterbuck, a 36-year-old, Right Winger, is more than familiar to the Flyers. Yes, he does not play the center position, but that’s okay. They could always use a Clutterbuck on the Wing if need be.
He would provide tons of experience for the youth, and signing him to a PTO would be no harm. Clutterbuck could always get released off that during Training Camp.
With Center depth relying solely with Massimo Rizzo, Olle Lycksell, Abols, and Richard. Maybe Briere brings in one of these said Center depth pieces in and on a PT up
Interesting read….but would he really provide toilets?
Nick Cousins
…This former Flyer has tons of experience, and really found a home following his stent with the Flyers. They could use him as a depth piece, and he could also provide toilets for the youth, to include Matvei Michkov.
You didn’t proof read this section….
Nick Cousins
…..This former Flyer has tons of experience, and really found a home following his stent with the Flyers. They could use him as a depth piece, and he could also provide toilets for the youth, to include Matvei Michkov….
Use AI much?
I think Abols and Rizzo are better options than these players. The team doesn’t need to sign anyone to a pto. I would be very surprised if they added at this point. In fact I believe they will subtract a contract to become cap compliant instead of using LTIR. Or a trade to achieve the same result.