Philadelphia Flyers Assigned Four Players to Phantoms
The team moved four prospects to their AHL affiliate to manage the roster and prioritize development.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Hockey
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The Philadelphia Flyers have assigned four players to the Lehigh Valley Phantoms. This move reduces the team's active NHL roster to 26 players.
Why it matters
Management determined that consistent playing time in the AHL is vital for the development of these younger players. The move also helps balance the roster as injured players begin to return.
The Flyers assigned four players to the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, bringing the current NHL roster count to 26 players. The team is currently evaluating candidates for the sixth defenseman spot.
The players
Philadelphia Flyers
This professional ice hockey team competes in the National Hockey League as a member of the Metropolitan Division.
Lehigh Valley Phantoms
This team serves as the American Hockey League affiliate for the Philadelphia Flyers organization.
Carl Grundstrom
The professional hockey player successfully cleared waivers on Thursday after the team's transaction process.
Helge Grans
The defenseman is currently recovering from an injury sustained during a game on Thursday.
The details
Cole Knuble, Jacob Gaucher, Jett Luchanko, and Oliver Bonk were sent to the minor league affiliate to avoid a bench-warming platoon role. Additionally, Carl Grundstrom cleared waivers on Thursday, while Helge Grans remains sidelined following an injury.
Timeline
September 25, 2026: The Flyers announced the roster cuts.
September 26, 2026: The Phantoms play their preseason opener and an exhibition game.
September 29, 2026: The Phantoms hold an additional exhibition game.
September 30, 2026: The Flyers begin their season opener.
The Big Picture
This roster move follows the standard 2026 NHL training camp roster reduction protocols for managing prospect development. The organization is prioritizing long-term development by ensuring players receive consistent game minutes rather than limited roles.
With the roster now at 26, the team must finalize its sixth defenseman to complete the opening night lineup. Fans should monitor the status of Denver Barkey and Dan Vladar ahead of the season opener on September 30.
The takeaway
The organization continues to emphasize developmental playing time for prospects over depth roles at the NHL level. Decisions regarding the final defensive roster spots will remain a focal point until the season begins.
Further reading
Find more updates on the team's roster moves and upcoming schedule at Philadelphia Hockey.
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