What happened: Carl Grundstrom is staying in Philadelphia after agreeing to a one-year contract extension reportedly worth $1 million, locking him in for the 2026-27 season a day before he could have reached free agency. The 28-year-old winger joined the Flyers from San Jose this past season after a single year with the Sharks.

Why it matters: The deal gives Philadelphia a known, inexpensive bottom-six option as it tries to entrench itself as a steady playoff contender in the brutally deep Metropolitan Division. Retaining depth on a cheap, short-term contract preserves roster flexibility while the Flyers continue building toward a more consistent postseason presence.

What to watch: Watch where Grundstrom slots in the forward group come training camp and whether his role stays at the NHL level or includes more AHL time as Philadelphia finalizes its 2026-27 depth chart.