The Philadelphia Flyers are making moves and generating buzz as the 2025 NHL offseason gets underway. From potential KHL signings to trade rumors and free-agent targets, here's a look at the latest news and speculation surrounding the team.
Rumors are swirling about the Flyers potentially signing Maxim Shabanov, a 24-year-old forward from the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). According to reports, Shabanov will join the Flyers for the 2025-26 season. However, some local reporters suggest that the deal is still in progress and not yet finalized.
Shabanov is coming off a strong season in the KHL, where he recorded 67 points (23 goals, 44 assists) in 65 games, ranking third in league scoring. He also added 10 goals and 10 assists in the playoffs, leading his team to the Gagarin Cup Final. At 5-foot-8 and 157 pounds, Shabanov is undersized but possesses impressive offensive skills, including elite skating, speed, puck-handling, and a quick release.
If the Flyers sign Shabanov, he would join a growing contingent of Russian players on the team, including Ivan Fedotov, Matvei Michkov, Nikita Grebenkin, and Egor Zamula.
The Flyers' defense could get a boost via trade. There's speculation about acquiring defenseman Nicolas Hague from the Vegas Golden Knights. With Rasmus Ristolainen recovering from a re-ruptured triceps, Hague could fill a significant role on the blue line. Hague, 26, is a big-bodied defenseman with NHL experience. The Flyers recently re-signed defensive prospect Helge Grans to a two-year extension.
As the free agency period approaches, the Flyers are expected to be active in the market. General Manager Danny Briere has indicated a shift from subtracting to adding to the roster. Several free agents have been linked to the Flyers, including players with connections to new head coach Rick Tocchet.
Some potential free-agent targets for the Flyers include:
The Flyers have a significant opportunity to add talent through the 2025 NHL Draft, where they possess seven top-50 picks. While the team has a glaring need at center, Assistant General Manager Brent Flahr has indicated that they are also considering wingers and defensemen with their top pick.
Some of the top center prospects in the 2025 draft include James Hagens, Michael Misa, Anton Frondell, Caleb Desnoyers, Jake O'Brien, Roger McQueen, and Brady Martin. However, the Flyers may also be tempted by wingers or defensemen if they are higher on the team's draft board.
The Flyers are entering a crucial offseason as they look to continue their rebuild and move closer to contention. With potential additions from the KHL, trade possibilities, and a significant presence in the upcoming draft, the Flyers are poised to make some significant changes to their roster.
