Former 1st round pick won't sign with the team who drafted him, instead he'll become a free agent
The Phildelphia Flyers have been a team stuck in mediocrity for the last decade, you would think they'd have a deeper prospect pool but that just isn't the case when compared to other teams in the same situation. During Saturday night's Hockey Night In Canada, insider Elliotte Friedman reported the prospect pool is taking a hit. Philadelphia are going to let first round pick Jay O'Brien selected 19th overall in 2018 walk to free agency.
"The Flyers and the player had to make a decision to sign and I have heard that the decision has been made," Friedman said, "The Flyers will not sign him and that allows O'Brien to test free agency. He's 23 years old and he can pick which team or organization he wants to play for."
Per the rules of the NHL's collective bargaining agreement, because O'Brien was a first round pick the Flyers will be compensated with a slightly lower draft pick at the upcoming NHL draft.
"The Flyers as a result will get a second round pick in the upcoming draft," confirmed Friedman, "But O'Brien will not be a Flyer."
The 23 year old just finished his college career at Boston University recording 32 points in 39 games. O'Brien was drafted during the Ron Hextall regime who is the current general manager of the Pittsburgh Penguins. Could a fit be found in the same state?
| POLL | ||
AVRIL 9 | 337 ANSWERS Former 1st round pick won't sign with the team who drafted him, instead he'll become a free agent Do you think its a mistake to let a first round pick walk with getting something in return? | ||
| Yes, should be able to get something | 165 | 49 % |
| No, sometimes the scouts miss | 172 | 51 % |
| LIST OF POLLS | ||
Top 10 latest hockey stories
