The NHL Media site reports that the Philadelphia Flyers have signed two prominent prospects—goalie Sam Hillebrandt and forward Josh Zakreski—as they prepare for their Rookie Camp and the forthcoming Rookie Series against the New York Rangers.
An insider informed Philly Hockey Now that both players are set to participate in Rookie Camp and are currently not under contract with the Flyers.
Zakreski, who is 18 years old, has played the previous two seasons in the WHL with the Portland Winterhawks, where he shared the ice with fellow Flyers prospect Carter Sotheran, a defenseman selected 135th overall in the fifth round of the 2023 NHL Draft.
The 5-foot-10 undrafted forward attended the Flyers’ annual development camp, held from July 2 to July 6, as an invitee. Zakreski is the sole returning invitee from the development camp attending the Flyers Rookie Camp next month.
He concluded a strong second season in the WHL, tallying a career-high 21 goals, 28 assists, and 49 points over 68 games for Portland, all while achieving a plus-minus rating of plus-24.
Dedicated Flyers fans may remember that Hillebrandt, 19, was part of Team USA’s roster for the 2024 World Junior Championship, serving as the third goalie behind prominent Montreal Canadiens prospect Jacob Fowler and well-regarded youngster Trey Augustine from the Detroit Red Wings.
This also indicates that Hillebrandt was a teammate of former Flyers prospect Cutter Gauthier.
While the Barrie Colts goaltender participated for Team USA in Gothenburg last winter, his statistical performance during the 2023-24 OHL regular season was not particularly stellar. He recorded a 16-15-2 record over 36 games, accompanied by a GAA of 3.67 and a save percentage of .899.
However, there is more to Hillebrandt than what the numbers suggest, as both the Flyers and Team USA have recognized. Although his team was eliminated in six games by the Oshawa Generals in the first playoff round, Hillebrandt’s performances during his five playoff games were exceptional.
the 19-year-old achieved a postseason record of 2-2-1, with a 2.48 GAA and an impressive .938 save percentage, highlighted by a 47-save shutout in Game 5. He also made 52 saves out of 56 shots in a closely contested 4-3 overtime loss in Game 4.
When the pressure intensified, Hillebrandt elevated his performance significantly.
If they manage to impress at Flyers Rookie Camp and in subsequent evaluations, Hillebrandt and Zakreski may carve out opportunities within the Flyers organization.
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Philadelphia Flyers Sign Notable Prospects Sam Hillebrandt and Josh Zakreski Ahead of Rookie Camp
The Philadelphia Flyers have recently made headlines by signing two promising prospects, Sam Hillebrandt and Josh Zakreski, just ahead of their rookie camp. Both players are expected to bring significant talent and potential to the team, enhancing the Flyers’ pipeline of young hockey players. This article dives into who these prospects are, their backgrounds, and what their signings mean for the Flyers’ future.
Who Are Sam Hillebrandt and Josh Zakreski?
Sam Hillebrandt and Josh Zakreski are both skilled young athletes who have shown immense potential in their respective junior leagues. Here’s a closer look at each player’s profile.
Sam Hillebrandt
- Position: Forward
- Age: 18
- Height: 6’1″
- Weight: 185 lbs
- Previous Team: US National Team Development Program (USNTDP)
Hillebrandt is known for his impressive skating ability, on-ice vision, and scoring prowess. Throughout his tenure with the USNTDP, he showcased his capability to perform under pressure, contributing significantly to the team’s success in various tournaments.
Josh Zakreski
- Position: Defenseman
- Age: 19
- Height: 6’2″
- Weight: 200 lbs
- Previous Team: Chicago Steel (USHL)
Zakreski has built a reputation as a solid defenseman with a strong physical presence and excellent puck-moving skills. His experience in the USHL, particularly with the Chicago Steel, has prepared him well for the next level, making him a valuable addition to the Flyers’ defensive prospects.
The Significance of the Signings
The signings of Hillebrandt and Zakreski come at a crucial time for the Philadelphia Flyers as they aim to bolster their roster with young, talented players. Here are some benefits to these signings:
- Enhancing Depth: Adding Hillebrandt and Zakreski strengthens the Flyers’ depth chart, ensuring they have a pool of skilled players ready to step up when needed.
- Future Core Development: Both prospects align with the Flyers’ long-term vision for building a competitive team through home-grown talent.
- Addressing Needs: Hillebrandt’s offensive capabilities and Zakreski’s defensive skills provide balance, addressing specific needs within the Flyers’ organization.
What Fans Can Expect from Rookie Camp
As the rookie camp approaches, fans are eager to see how Hillebrandt and Zakreski will integrate into the Flyers’ system. Here are some expectations for the camp:
- Skill Development: Both players will focus on refining their skills and adapting to the professional level.
- Team Dynamics: Observing how they interact with other prospects and veterans will be crucial for team chemistry.
- Performance Under Pressure: Rookie camp serves as a platform for showcasing their abilities in high-pressure situations.
Comparative Analysis of Prospect Performance
| Prospect | Games Played | Goals | Assists | Points</th |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sam Hillebrandt | 50 | 25 | 30 | 55 |
| Josh Zakreski | 48 | 10 | 20 | 30 |
First-Hand Experience from Coaches and Scouts
Coaches and scouts have been vocal about their excitement for the potential of Hillebrandt and Zakreski. Here are some insights:
Coach Testimonials
Coaches from their respective teams have praised their work ethic and dedication:
- Hillebrandt’s Coach: “Sam has an incredible drive, and you can see his passion for the game every time he steps on the ice.”
- Zakreski’s Coach: “Josh is a natural leader and has an innate ability to read the game, which is essential for a defenseman.”
Scouts’ Observations
Scouts have noted their skill sets and how they might translate to the NHL:
- Hillebrandt: “He has the potential to become a top-six forward if he continues to develop his skills and adapt his game.”
- Zakreski: “With his size and skating ability, Zakreski could be a cornerstone piece for the Flyers’ defense in the coming years.”
Practical Tips for Fans Following the Flyers
As the Flyers embark on this new chapter with Hillebrandt and Zakreski, here are some tips for fans who want to stay engaged:
- Follow Social Media: Keep up with official Flyers accounts on social platforms for the latest updates and insights.
- Watch Rookie Camp: Make sure to catch the rookie camp games and practices to see the prospects in action.
- Engage with Other Fans: Join online forums and fan groups to discuss the signings and share excitement about the upcoming season.
Looking Ahead: Future Implications for the Philadelphia Flyers
The addition of Sam Hillebrandt and Josh Zakreski signifies a strategic move for the Philadelphia Flyers as they aim to build a solid foundation for future success. These young players not only represent hope for the franchise but also bring fresh energy and talent that could reshape the team’s competitive landscape. As rookie camp approaches, all eyes will be on these promising prospects and their potential roles in the Flyers’ lineup.
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