The Philadelphia Flyers have made several changes to their roster and coaching staff ahead of the 2025-26 NHL season, following a disappointing 33-39-10 record that left them eighth in the Metropolitan Division and out of the playoffs last year.
Among the key offseason moves is the hiring of Rick Tocchet as head coach. Tocchet, who replaced John Tortorella on May 14, previously coached the Vancouver Canucks to a 108-65-27 record over three seasons and reached the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs in 2024. “It’s not about Rick Tocchet. It’s about the crest. I’m a crest guy. How do we build the shield?” said Tocchet.
The Flyers also traded for forward Trevor Zegras from the Anaheim Ducks on June 23, sending Ryan Poehling, a second-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, and a fourth-round pick in 2026 to Anaheim. Zegras, drafted ninth overall by Anaheim in 2019, has recorded 186 points (67 goals, 119 assists) in his NHL career.
Other new additions include goaltender Dan Vladar, who signed a two-year contract after posting a .898 save percentage with Calgary last season; Christian Dvorak, expected to center one of the bottom lines; defensemen Noah Juulsen and Dennis Gilbert; and several prospects such as Alex Bump and Oliver Bonk who could see increased roles this season.
Departures from Philadelphia include Ryan Poehling—traded as part of acquiring Zegras—and Jakob Pelletier, who signed with Tampa Bay after contributing eight points in his short stint with Philadelphia last year.
Looking ahead to training camp and preseason games before opening night on October 7, there are questions about depth at forward due to Tyson Foerster’s uncertain status following an elbow injury and infection. The Flyers finished last season ranked 24th in scoring at just under three goals per game.
Statistically, Philadelphia’s forwards were among league leaders in long-range shots on goal but lacked finishing ability around the net—a need addressed by acquiring Zegras. He scored notably well on high-danger chances during his time with Anaheim when healthy.
Rookie Matvei Michkov led all NHL rookies in goals (26) last season while ranking highly across multiple offensive categories for first-year players. After John Tortorella’s departure late last season, Michkov’s production increased significantly under interim leadership—an encouraging sign for fans looking toward player development under Tocchet’s guidance.
Several young players—including Alex Bump from Western Michigan University and recent draft picks Porter Martone and Jett Luchanko—are expected to compete for roster spots or develop further within affiliate leagues this year.
Philadelphia will start its regular season schedule amid ongoing efforts to rebuild its offense and return to playoff contention after missing postseason play since 2020.
