Flyers Exit Interviews: Three RFAs Give an Update on their Contract Situations

The Flyers have four pending restricted free agents: Noah Cates, Tyson Foerster, Jakob Pelletier, and Cam York.

Both Cates and Foerster addressed their current contract situation during their exit interviews on Friday.

Pelletier addressed his contract situation on Saturday.

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Noah Cates Talks Next Contract with the Flyers

Noah Cates spoke first between the three RFAs and said contract talks had already begun. “(Contract talks) started a little bit during the middle of the season; they started a little bit, then talks kind of slowed down a little bit. I’m not worried about anything, obviously. It’s very exciting that they’re talking about it (an extension), that the process is going, and after a good season. You know, it feels really good going into the summer.”

Cates would later confirm that he prefers a long-term deal over a short-term contract. He is eligible for one more short bridge deal before he hits the open market. So, instead of betting on himself and looking for a higher AAV, it seems as if Cates would prefer to get his guarantee that he will be in Philadelphia for a while.

2024/25 was a breakout season for Noah Cates. He has stepped up as an all-situations player and cemented himself as a top-nine forward for the foreseeable future. Cates’ next contract will be well deserved.

Foerster Wants to be a Forever Flyer

His linemate, Tyson Foerster, also expressed his desire to remain with the Flyers long-term.

When asked about the idea of a long-term contract, Foerster said this:

“If they want to do it, I would love to do that. I’d love to be here forever. I love it here. It’s great to play here, and the guys are great. It could be a short-term deal, it could be long–term, but whatever it is, I am happy to be here.”

Foerster had another solid season, taking the next step in his development. While it was certainly powered by his late-season surge, Foerster had five more goals and five more assists this season than last.

After playing just two full seasons in the NHL, you’d think the Flyers would want to do a bridge deal. Regardless, it seems like Foerster will do whatever and is just happy to be a Flyer.

If one thing is clear from day one of exit interviews, it’s that both Cates and Foerster want to be around for a long time.

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Pelletier and Flyers Have Not Talked Yet

On Saturday, Jakob Pelletier also addressed his contract situation.

Pelletier said that he and the Flyers have not yet started contract negotiations, but that is not cause for worry.

In all reality, it makes a lot of sense that talks have not happened yet. Pelletier is such a young player, not to mention he has not been a Flyer for very long. Management likely needed to see him finish out the season before they could even begin put a value on him.

Pelletier said he expects talks to begin in a few weeks.

He also mentioned that he is looking forward to next season in Philadelphia, especially after chemistry started to brew between Ryan Poehling, Owen Tippett, and him. Obviously, Pelletier needs to sign first, but he is looking forward to a full season in Philly.

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