Every March begins another round of collegiate, overage CHL and overseas player signings in the NHL. Brandon Alderson was the first forward to sign a deal with the Philadelphia Flyers, and according to TSN‘s Bob McKenzie, Kyle Flanagan of St. Lawrence University will be the second.
Flanagan, 24, completed his senior season with the Saints and has signed a one-year entry level contract. He signed an amateur tryout contract to join the Adirondack Phantoms for the remainder of their season.
In four seasons at SLU, Flanagan notched 46 goals and 147 points in 37 games played. He finished second in the Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference in points this year, right behind teammate Greg Carey.
The Canton, NY native has just one knock against him for a future in the NHL- he is just 5’-9″.
Flanagan would certainly not be the smallest forward to ever play in the NHL, but earning a call-up is going to require that his positional awareness and “hockey I.Q.” stand head and shoulders above his competition.
I can’t say I’ve seen him play before, but the general consensus among those who have is that he is just that- an intelligent, defensively sharp player with good finishing abilities. Assuming he gets a few games in with the Phantoms over the next few weeks, Flyers fans will be able to get an early glimpse at his potential at the pro level.
Low risk high reward
Lord Stanley, we’re coming for your cup.
Just kidding, the Flyers will never win.