With training camp in full swing and the regular season just around the corner, rosters are starting to slowly finalize with NHL clubs making rounds of cuts. On Friday, the Philadelphia Flyers were rather busy as they announced a slew of moves including cuts, waivers, and an entry-level contract extension.
Defensemen Ronnie Attard and Louie Belpedio and forward Rhett Gardner were placed on waivers with the purpose of loaning them to the Lehigh Valley Phantoms of the AHL. Forwards J.R. Avon, Elliot Desnoyers, and Massimo Rizzo were assigned to the Phantoms and forwards Brendan Furry and Jacob Gaucher – both players signed specifically to AHL contracts – were returned to the Phantoms.
Defenseman and second round pick from this past draft, Spencer Gill, was awarded a 3-year entry level contract earlier Friday as well. Gill was selected with the 59th overall pick after a stellar season with Rimouski Océanic that saw him pot 46 points in 65 contests. He was returned to the Océanic the other day and is expected to take on an even larger role in 2024-25.
Perhaps the surprise move lies in Attard being placed on waivers. The 3rd round selection from the 2019 NHL Entry Draft has enjoyed 2 solid seasons with the Phantoms in consecutive years but has had difficulties translating his game to the NHL-level with the Flyers when given the opportunity.
Also something to take note of is that Jett Luchanko still remains with the big club after a fantastic showing during rookie and training camp. The 13th overall selection from this summer’s draft has really turned heads since his selection – within the organization and the fanbase.
The selection came as a surprise to many who were hoping for Zeev Buium or Konsta Helenius. However so far Luchanko is checking off all the boxes and is really giving the front office a run for their money when it comes to keeping him at the NHL-level for the 9-game tryout basis to start the season.
Attard, Belpedio, and Gardner are expected to clear waivers and report to the Phantoms as long as they go unclaimed. Several other teams joined in putting players on the waiver wire, which might help their chances in ensuring that all players go unclaimed.
The current training camp roster stands at 37 players as more cuts will be announced in the coming days before they finalize their 23-man Opening Night roster.
