Now that August is here, most of the top free agents that hit the market this summer have found their new homes. While this is the case, there are still some notable players who remain out of contract until the end of the summer.
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Several of them are former Philadelphia Flyers players, so let’s discuss five of them now.
Tony DeAngelo
Former flyer Tony DeAngelo is one of the best defenders still on the market at the end of the summer. The 28-year-old is coming off a shaky season with the Carolina Hurricanes, scoring three goals, 11 points and a minus-7 rating in 31 games. However, given his past offensive success, he could get a cheap one-year tryout contract or a professional tryout (PTO) contract.
In DeAngelo’s lone season with the Flyers in 2022-23, he recorded 11 goals, 42 points, 52 boards and a minus-27 rating in 70 games.
James van Riemsdyk
Former Flyer James van Riemsdyk is arguably the best free agent forward still on the board at this point in the offseason. The 2007 second overall pick had a decent season with the Boston Bruins in 2023-24, recording 11 goals, 38 points and a plus-7 rating in 71 games. However, he struggled down the stretch, which may be why he hasn’t signed yet.
Teams that need more production in the bottom half of their lineup can take a chance on JVR. He’s still a useful top-nine forward who works on the power play, so he’d be a solid addition on a cheap one-year deal.
Cousins Nick
After winning the Stanley Cup with the Florida Panthers, Nick Cousins has yet to find a new home in free agency. This undoubtedly has the potential to change, as he is an effective agitator who works well in the bottom six.
It wouldn’t be shocking if Cousins eventually found a home with an NHL club with a cheap cap hit. While he isn’t the biggest offensive force, his gritty playing style and playoff experience make him an interesting target.
Marc Staal
Marc Staal proved to be a solid veteran defender for the Flyers last season. In 35 games, the 6-foot-9 defenseman recorded one goal, five points, 31 boards and a plus-2 rating. However, the 17-year-old veteran is yet to be signed this summer.
Teams looking for more defensive depth can bet on Staal, as he has a lot of experience and can play as a seventh defender. However, at 37, he is also a candidate for retirement.
Tyler Pitlick
Tyler Pitlick is another former Flyer looking for a new job. The Minneapolis, Minnesota native spent last season with the New York Rangers, recording one goal, three assists, 84 digs and a minus-6 rating in 34 games.
With Pitlick having 10 years of NHL experience and playing a tenacious game, he could earn PTO before training camp begins. If not, there is potential for him to continue his career abroad.
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