The Philadelphia Flyers have placed Oskar Lindblom on waivers for the purpose of a contract buyout. He is entering the final year of his current deal, due $3mil.
A beloved member of the Flyers by fellow players, staff, media, and fans, the decision is not an easy one. Flyers Charities donated $100,000 in Lindblom’s name to a local organization supporting families impacted by cancer. Chuck Fletcher stated the following regarding the decision to buyout Lindblom:
“No one can question the desire, will, and strength to overcome all that Oskar has been through off the ice in order to return to the game he loves.”
Chuck Fletcher; 7/12/2022
He’ll continue his hockey journey, but it’ll be with a different franchise.
Before being diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma in 2019-2020, Lindblom created ways to light the lamp with his teammates. He was on pace to have his best NHL season. He returned in the 2020 Eastern Conference Semifinals versus the New York Islanders. Since returning, he totaled 40pts (20G,20A) in 129 games from 2020-2022.
“Oskar’s commitment to his teammates and impact in our room has been immeasurable. He is truly an inspiration to us all, and he will always remain a special part of the Philadelphia Flyers family.”
Chuck Fletcher; 7/12/2022
It wouldn’t be shocking if Lindblom remained close to the franchise. Fletcher nails it when describing the feeling Lindblom brings to the club. A return to the Flyers organization following his NHL career makes sense. For now, this is a financial decision. It could potentially help with acquiring Johnny Gaudreau.
It’s a bitter feeling from any perspective, but potentially affording a game-changer is the silver lining. Lindblom was on his way in 2019-2020, standing out as a gem of a fifth-round selection. Philadelphia felt like they found a game-changer on their own. Unfortunately, Lindblom never returned to form, which wasn’t due to a lack of effort. A difficult decision against the cap, it’s for the “aggressive rebuild” coup.
Could Lindblom improve under John Tortorella? Absolutely. It isn’t a matter of the Flyers losing faith in Lindblom whatsoever. He, like Nicolas Aube-Kubel, will likely thrive elsewhere in the NHL.
To that, we’ll continue to root for one of the most wholesome players in the league. His mental fortitude is unrivaled. If Lindblom taught us anything, it’s that he is built to take on any challenge.
For Lindblom, it’s just his latest test on his NHL journey.
(Photo Credit: Alex McIntyre)
