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Jett Luchanko, the Flyers’ 13th overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, is a 19-year-old Center known for his elite skating speed, defensive awareness, and two-way potential. After a strong showing in last year’s Training Camp, he earned a surprise spot on the 2024-25 opening night roster as an 18-year-old—the youngest player in franchise history to debut.
However, he played just four regular-season games before being returned to the Guelph Storm (OHL) to continue his development, avoiding burning a full year of his entry-level contract.This season (2025-26), Luchanko enters camp as a more established prospect, but faces stiffer competition for a bottom-six forward spot. He’s currently locked into a battle with Rodrigo Abols, and Nikita Grebenkin.
The Flyers’ Center depth has improved with offseason additions like Trevor Zegras and Christian Dvorak, who can flex between wing and center.
Key roster battles include Luchanko competing against forwards like Nikita Grebenkin and Rodrigo Abols.
- The team has trimmed the roster to 28 players, leaving 2-3 forward spots open.
- Luchanko has been a full participant in Training Camp after sitting out the initial rookie sessions due to a precautionary groin issue (he’s now reported at 100% and skating with veterans).
- Recent moves, like loaning Jacob Gaucher to the AHL’s Lehigh Valley Phantoms, have boosted Luchanko’s odds by reducing direct competition.
- Head Coach Rick Tocchet has praised Luchanko’s speed but noted he needs to shoot more aggressively to earn consistent ice time.
Luchanko’s Pre-Season performance has been solid, but unspectacular. He just hasn’t popped yet, and he has shown strong defensive entries and chemistry with linemates like Alex Bump. However, his offensive output (goals/assists) remains a work in progress, echoing feedback from last year.
- Organizational Preference: General Manager Danny Briere and President of Hockey Operations Keith Jones view Luchanko as a high-upside asset worth a longer evaluation.
- Roster Fit: With injuries (e.g., Rasmus Ristolainen out a few more weeks) and depth needs at right-shot Center, Luchanko’s versatility and speed make him a better bet than veterans like Nic Delauries or bubble players like Abols/Grebenkin.
Potential Risks:
- If the Flyers prioritize veterans like Noah Cates or Christian Dvorak, or if Luchanko’s shot reluctance persists, he could return to Guelph full-time. However, it is very realistic that the Flyers could keep him for a nine-game audition, once again this season
Overall, I’d put his chances at 80-85% with making the team—he’s earned it through camp, and the Flyers love his intangibles. If he makes it, he’ll be a fan favorite for his speed alone.
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