Now that August is here, most of the top free agents who hit the market this summer have found their new homes. While this is the case, there are still some notable players who remained unsigned this deep into 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 top defensemen still on the market this late into the summer. The 28-year-old is coming off a shaky season with the Carolina Hurricanes, recording three goals, 11 points, and a minus-7 rating in 31 games. However, given his past offensive success, he could land a cheap one-year, prove-it deal or professional tryout (PTO) contract.
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In DeAngelo’s lone season with the Flyers in 2022-23, he posted 11 goals, 42 points, 52 hits, and a minus-27 rating in 70 games.
James van Riemsdyk
Former Flyer James van Riemsdyk is arguably the top free-agent forward still on the board at this juncture of 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 could be why he is still unsigned.
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Teams needing more production in the bottom half of their lineup could take a chance on JVR. He is still a serviceable top-nine forward who works on the power play, so he would be a solid addition on a cheap one-year deal.
Nick Cousins
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.
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It would not be shocking if Cousins eventually finds a home with an NHL club at a cheap cap hit. While he is not the biggest offensive force, his gritty style of play and playoff experience make him an interesting target.
Marc Staal
Marc Staal proved to be a solid veteran depth defenseman for the Flyers this past season. In 35 games, the 6-foot-4 defenseman recorded one goal, five points, 31 hits, and a plus-2 rating. However, the 17-year veteran has not been signed at this point in the summer.
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Teams looking for more defensive depth could take a flier on Staal, as he has plenty of experience and can work as a seventh defender. However, at 37 years old, he is also a retirement candidate.
Tyler Pitlick
Tyler Pitlick is another ex-Flyer who is looking for a new gig. The Minneapolis, Minnesota native spent this past season with the New York Rangers, recording one goal, three assists, 84 hits, and a minus-6 rating in 34 contests.
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With Pitlick having 10 years of NHL experience and playing a tenacious game, he could earn a PTO before training camp begins. If not, the potential for him to continue his career overseas is there.
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