Philly’s 2025-26 outlook hinges on a bold mix: Trevor Zegras shifts the floor and offense up a notch, Dan Vladar shores up the crease, and Matvei Michkov continues his rapid development as Philadelphia bets on an elevated attack with young talent. The NHL’s national TV slate shows the Flyers will remain a marketable draw, with 14 national games and several top-market showdowns, including a December duel with Buffalo and a Bedard showdown in Chicago.

Key scheduling notes: Oct. 28 vs Pittsburgh kicks off national exposure in the Frozen Frenzy, followed by a December stretch with Buffalo and the Bedard-Chicago matchup on TNT. The month-to-month grind features notable dates against the Rangers, Bruins, Capitals, and divisions rivals, plus a potential playoff push in April. The storyline blends a refreshed lineup with big-name rivalries, all shaping fantasy value across forward lines and goaltending.

The NHL goaltender market has thinned significantly, with few options available for teams in need. Only a handful of unrestricted free agents were left, leading to notable moves such as Detroit acquiring John Gibson from Anaheim. The New Jersey Devils retained Jake Allen for five years at $9 million, while other teams like Philadelphia brought in Dan Vladar and the Islanders signed David Rittich for depth behind Ilya Sorokin.

Edmonton, despite being a two-time Western Conference champion, could be forced to stick with Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard, who struggled in the playoffs. Meanwhile, the Vancouver Canucks boast a solid goaltending tandem with Thatcher Demko and Kevin Lankinen, which they believe could be the best in the league. Carolina added Amir Miftakhov for depth, while other teams like Buffalo and Seattle made strategic signings to bolster their goaltending situations.

With the NHL goalie market tightening, recent moves reflect the urgency for teams needing netminders. The Detroit Red Wings acquired John Gibson from the Anaheim Ducks, significantly impacting the landscape. Jake Allen remains with the New Jersey Devils, while Thatcher Demko continues his tenure in Vancouver. Key signings include Dan Vladar joining the Philadelphia Flyers and David Rittich heading to the New York Islanders as insurance for Ilya Sorokin. Edmonton Oilers face challenges, potentially sticking with Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard after an underwhelming playoff performance.

Vancouver's Demko, now a franchise cornerstone, boasts a solid backup in Kevin Lankinen. Meanwhile, the Carolina Hurricanes have brought in Amir Miftakhov, a cost-effective option after his KHL success. The market dynamics raise questions for teams lacking depth as they navigate the upcoming season's challenges.

Dan Vladar has secured a two-year deal with the Philadelphia Flyers worth $6.7 million, averaging $3.35 million annually. The 27-year-old goalie posted a record of 12 wins, 11 losses, and 6 overtime losses last season, alongside a 2.80 goals-against average and a .898 save percentage with two shutouts in 30 games for the Calgary Flames.

Selected in the 2015 NHL Draft by the Boston Bruins, Vladar brings an overall career record of 49-34-16 with a 3.00 GAA and .895 save percentage across 105 regular-season appearances. His experience also includes participation in two Stanley Cup playoff games. This new contract positions him as a pivotal part of the Flyers' future plans.

The Calgary Flames are in a pivotal off-season as they explore contract extensions for goaltenders Dustin Wolf and Dan Vladar. Following the recent signing of Matt Coronato to a seven-year deal, the focus shifts to their netminding duo. Wolf, who excelled last season, is entering the final year of a two-year contract and can sign an extension starting July 1. General Manager Craig Conroy has expressed a desire to solidify Wolf's role as the long-term starter while keeping Vladar, who is an unrestricted free agent, as the reliable 1B option. The Flames aim to strengthen their roster to enhance their playoff prospects.