Philadelphia Flyers Make Key Signings as NHL Free Agency Kicks Off

The Philadelphia Flyers took decisive action on Tuesday, securing goalie Dan Vladar along with centers Christian Dvorak and Lane Pederson, and defensemen Noah Juulsen and Dennis Gilbert as NHL free agency commenced.

Vladar, 27, has been signed to a two-year deal worth an average of $3.35 million annually, as confirmed by general manager Danny Briere. Previously with the Calgary Flames, he recorded a 2.80 goals against average and a .898 save percentage last season. Drafted in the third round by the Boston Bruins in 2015, Vladar has accumulated a career .895 save percentage across 105 NHL games.

With the Flyers' goalies allowing an alarming 3.45 goals per game last season and posting the league's lowest save percentage at .879, Vladar's addition is crucial. This move suggests that Ivan Fedotov may be relegated to the AHL for the upcoming season, while Samuel Ersson is expected to be his primary partner in net.

Meanwhile, Dvorak has signed a one-year contract valued at $5.4 million. The 29-year-old center brings a history with new head coach Rick Tocchet, having played under him for four seasons with the Arizona Coyotes. Last year, Dvorak contributed 12 goals and 33 points in 82 games for the Montreal Canadiens, showcasing his ability on the penalty kill and winning 55.8% of his faceoffs.

His experience under Tocchet—where he netted 52 goals and 113 points in 224 games—positions him as a valuable asset for the Flyers, especially after the recent trade of Ryan Poehling. Dvorak's presence adds depth at center, allowing Trevor Zegras to potentially play in his natural position.

In addition to Dvorak, the Flyers also welcomed Noah Juulsen on a one-year contract worth $900,000. The right-handed defenseman, a first-round pick by the Montreal Canadiens in 2015, has spent the last four seasons with the Vancouver Canucks. Juulsen averaged over 16 minutes of ice time last season and is expected to enhance the Flyers' defensive lineup.

Dennis Gilbert joins Philadelphia on a one-year deal valued at $875,000. The 29-year-old blueliner has experience primarily with the Buffalo Sabres and was part of a trade to the Ottawa Senators last season. With six assists in 29 games last year, Gilbert will likely serve as a veteran presence for the Lehigh Valley Phantoms.

Lastly, Lane Pederson has been signed to a one-year, two-way contract worth $775,000. The 27-year-old center has played over 70 NHL games across three seasons and has previously worked with Tocchet during his coaching stints. Following the decision not to qualify Elliot Desnoyers, Pederson is anticipated to contribute as an AHL forward while remaining a viable call-up option.