March 23, 2023; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States; Philadelphia Flyers goaltender Carter Hart (79) drives against the Minnesota Wild during the second period at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports
Chuck Bastman of Philadelphia Hockey NOW: THE Philadelphia Flyers signed Sam Ersson to a two-year, $2.9 million extension Saturday morning. Ersson could have become a restricted free agent after last year. He posted a 6-3 record with a 3.07 goals-against average, .899 save percentage and one shutout.
However, this creates a bit of a crowded situation in Philadelphia with the goaltending. Cal Petersen, Carter HartAnd Felix Sandstrom are all in the mix. That’s four goalkeepers for two places. Yes, the math is a bit wrong.
NHL Free Agents: Remaining unrestricted free agents
Philly and management can say whatever they want Carter Hart is their entry in October. However, the Flyers are also awaiting Ivan Fedotov. Philadelphia believes it has a valid contract with the Russian goalkeeper. The NHL too, but it depends on the IIHF. Are they on the KHL side?
Again, if Fedotov arrives, he will likely end up in the AHL. However, this creates even more of a blockage. Someone could easily be a strange man. Would it still be Hart?
Oh the Boston Bruins, Bergeron and more
Fluto Shinzawa from The Athletic (mailbag): THE Boston Bruins face much longer odds that their 2023-24 season will play out more like 2022-23 was supposed to. With the retirement of Patrice Bergeron And David Krejci almost guaranteed to not be in the picture, Boston is facing a serious transition.
Boston also lost Taylor Room, Nick Folignoand isn’t quite able to land Elias Lindholm what some had initially believed. This places them in a considerable dilemma. This may be a situation Cam Neely and Don Sweeney can’t get out of this time.
NHL Rumors: News on the New York Islanders and Pittsburgh Penguins
Boston still has fundamental talent and will rely more on its goaltending duo Linus Ullmark And Jeremiah Swayman. The Bruins have players like David Pastrnak, Charlie McAvoy, Brad MarchandAnd Hampus Lindholm. Few will feel sorry for them.
Expectations will be lower in a more competitive Atlantic Division. Toronto is the current favorite and Boston could look to 2024-25 to see more movement.
The chances of an inflow and outflow of dollars seem to be decreasing day by day. Jake DeBrusk will not be moved if Boston is in contention. The Bruins will need to stay healthy more than they did late last year.
