With NHL Free Agency set to begin on July 1, the Philadelphia Flyers are preparing to strengthen their roster, particularly focusing on improving their goaltending. Although the team boasts young offensive talents like Trevor Zegras, there is a clear need to add depth and experience in net to support their current core.

Samuel Ersson has been Philadelphia’s primary goaltender through recent seasons, showing potential as a reliable starter. However, the Flyers’ general manager, Daniel Briere, may be considering new options in the goal crease to complement Ersson and ensure stability moving forward as free agency opens.

Veteran Netminders Jake Allen and Ville Husso Emerge as Strong Candidates

Among the available goaltenders, veterans Jake Allen and Ville Husso stand out as promising fits for the Flyers. Allen, who spent the last season-plus with the New Jersey Devils, delivered solid performances as a backup to Jacob Markstrom, demonstrating that he can still provide dependable netminding. Meanwhile, Husso is aiming to re-establish himself after struggling for ice time with the Detroit Red Wings before being traded to the Anaheim Ducks, where he looks to regain his form.

During a recent episode of Daily Faceoff LIVE, hockey analyst Carter Hutton highlighted why both Husso and Allen could be valuable additions for Philadelphia.

Carter Hutton’s Insights on the Flyers’ Goalie Options

Carter Hutton expressed his favorable view toward Ville Husso, acknowledging that while Husso has had ups and downs, he has regained stability in his game. Hutton acknowledged the challenges players face when their performance dips after securing big contracts but remains optimistic about Husso’s potential.

Regarding Jake Allen, Hutton noted that Allen fits well with the Flyers’ needs because he can act as a reliable backup and mentor to Samuel Ersson. He praised Ersson’s performances last season, pointing out that the young goalie has significant upside and had 22 wins, including solid play during the Four Nations Face-Off tournament. Allen, at 34 years old, may be past his peak but still maintains strong fitness and conditioning, enabling him to effectively support Ersson and help him develop into a number one goaltender.

“I do like Ville Husso. I think he’s kind of established his game back, I know it’s a big drop off, and I do think there is a bit of – you get your payday and things fall behind a bit. I also like Jay Allen there, too. Allen could be a good fit there in the sense that he can protect Ersson. He can go in, and I think Samuel Ersson is a very good goalie and has a very big upside. He had 22 wins last year. He played well. I thought he played well when he got a chance in the Four Nations [Face-Off].” —Carter Hutton, Hockey Analyst

“I think Jake Allen can come in and kind of be that stopgap to protect them. Again, Jake Allen’s 34 [years old]. I know he’s not going to go in there and his better days are probably behind him, but his fitness level and conditioning…he’s still sustainable for a few more years to really help Ersson get over that gap and become a number one outright guy.” —Carter Hutton, Hockey Analyst

Implications for the Flyers’ Future in Goal

The potential acquisition of Jake Allen or Ville Husso could mark an important step in the Flyers’ efforts to solidify their goaltending ahead of the new season. By bringing in an experienced presence, Philadelphia can provide crucial support for Samuel Ersson’s development and create healthy competition in net. This strategy could lead to improved defensive stability for the team, which is essential as they aim to climb the NHL standings.

As free agency approaches, the decisions made by Daniel Briere and the Flyers’ management will reveal their commitment to reinforcing the roster where it is most needed, making goaltending a central focus of their offseason plans.