Philadelphia Flyers delay contract talks with pending free agents

Philadelphia Flyers General Manager Daniel Briere has indicated that the team is not currently engaged in contract extension talks with pending free agents. This approach comes despite an upcoming September 15 deadline for certain max-term contracts and signing bonus allocations.

Two key players with expiring contracts next summer are highlighted: winger Matvei Michkov and veteran defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen. Michkov, who will be a restricted free agent, saw a dip in production during the 2024-25 season after a strong rookie year. Briere has suggested waiting to see how the current season progresses before determining an appropriate offer.

Ristolainen, who will be an unrestricted free agent in July, remains a player the Flyers have been open to trading for several years, provided they receive a high return. While the team values his ability to play significant minutes on the right side of the defense, they have maintained a high price tag for his services.