How about them Philadelphia Flyerssss? The proud orange clad fans were rejoicing throughout the streets of Philadelphia, as they saw their beloved Winger in James Van Riemsdyk come home a few weeks ago.
After a sombering day Sunday, in which the Flyers resigned RFA’s in Forward’s Danick Martel, Taylor Leier and Tyrell Goulbourne. The Philadelphia Flyers and their faithful were dealt a huge blow with learning that former netminder Ray Emery was a drowning victim in Hamilton, Ontario. However, it appears that when the dust settled at night, another RFA in goaltender Anthony Stolarz signed his offer sheet, as first reported by an NHL writer John Hoven:
Anthony Stolarz accepted #Flyers qualifying offer ($761,250)
— The Mayor | Team MM (@mayorNHL) July 16, 2018
According to Capfriendly, it’s a one-year deal worth $761,250. The Flyers have officially announced his signing.
The #Flyers have signed G Anthony Stolarz to a one-year, two-way contract.https://t.co/hp9T3xtRYz
— Philadelphia Flyers (@NHLFlyers) July 18, 2018
Stolarz faced an uphill battle last season. He had two torn meniscus knee surgeries, and missed most of the year because of such. Stolarz played for the Reading Royals in a conditioning stint, and amassed a 3.02 GAA, .902 Save Percentage, while managing a record of 1-1 in 3 games played. The young netminder was then promoted to the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, where he registered a 6.08 GAA, and a .829 Save Percentage in just 1 game played. Stolarz was then forced to shut down for the season, after just one lonely start for the Phantoms to further rehabilitate his knee.
The young 24 year old netminder in Stolarz, has been on the big stage before. For the 2016-17 season, while donning a Flyers sweater. He registered a 2-1-1 record, 2.07 GAA, and a .928 Save Percentage. With the signing of Stolarz, this places extra depth into the system for the goaltending position. Moreover, the Flyers currently now have five goaltenders under contract for the 2017-18 season, with the likes of Stolarz, Alex Lyon, Carter Hart, Brian Elliott, and Michal Neuvirth. The Flyers are now left with one RFA remaining in Defenseman Robert Hagg.
General Manager Ron Hextall means business this coming season. Within the next few seasons this classy organization is going to transform into a Stanley Cup contender, and one that is tough to beat on a nightly basis. One thing is certain the future is bright in Flyer land.
Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports
