The Philadelphia Flyers just announced they are buying out Cam Atkinson’s contract. Flyers general manager Danny Briere stated, “When it comes to someone with the accomplishments and character of Cam, this was an exceptionally tough decision to make.” Atkinson had one year left on his contract at $5.875M.
Atkinson was traded to Philadelphia from Columbus in 2021 for Jake Voráček. In the 2021-2022 season, Atkinson scored 50 points in the 73 games he played. Unfortunately, he suffered a neck injury, missing the 2022-2023 season. Atkinson was determined to get back on the ice and was very candid about the process. “A lot has happened this year. My wife gave birth in January. You can imagine the roller coaster; I got surgery the week before that,” Atkinson shared.
After recovering from a frightening injury this past season, Atkinson played 70 games, putting up 28 points with 13 goals and 15 assists. This past season, the winger was scratched a lot of times by bench boss John Tortorella. This was a tough season for the 35-year-old winger since he wanted to be on the ice. His presence was known in the locker room. He also had his first NHL fight after 12 years in a 7-0 loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning.
While the Flyers are trying to clear up space ahead of the 2024 NHL Entry Level draft, today, it’s hard not to be upset about not seeing Atkinson on this team. Only a few players come to an organization this late in their career and fit perfectly with the culture. Atkinson played under Tortorella in Columbus, and his comfort helped the other young players trust Tortorella’s process. Atkinson said he wanted to play this upcoming season at his media day availability this year, and if he does, good luck to a class act.
