The Philadelphia Flyers entered the 2025 NHL Entry Draft with strategic intent, holding three pivotal selections in the second round: the 36th, 40th, and 48th overall picks. In a calculated move, the Flyers traded the No. 36 pick to the Seattle Kraken in exchange for picks 38 and 57, while also including pick 68, effectively trading out of the third round. This maneuvering set the stage for a focused approach to building their roster for the future.
The Selection of Carter Amico
With the 38th overall pick, the Flyers selected Carter Amico, a defenseman known for his towering presence on the ice. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 225 pounds, Amico shoots right and has been a prominent figure within the USNTDP (USHL) team during the 2023-24 season.
Amico’s path to the draft was marked by adversity. Initially projected as a first-round pick entering the 2024-25 season, his trajectory was interrupted by a severe injury—a broken kneecap sustained in November—which sidelined him for the remainder of the season. However, Amico has since recovered fully and is set to attend Boston University, eager to return to form.
Amico’s 2024-25 Season Review
Despite the setback, Amico managed to participate in four USHL games and 13 additional matches against other competition. He underwent two surgical procedures to address his injury, ultimately receiving a clean bill of health at the NHL Scouting Combine. Amico expressed confidence in his recovery, stating that he is now “100 percent healthy.”
“Amico figured to play a key role on the USNTDP this season. He’ll work to get on track next season,” noted a team insider.
Strengths and Areas for Improvement
Amico’s game is characterized by his size and strength, coupled with above-average mobility and range for a player of his stature. These attributes make him a formidable presence on the ice. However, after missing nearly a year of development, there is room for improvement in his puck play, an area that will be crucial as he transitions to the collegiate level.
Notably, Amico is a product of the prestigious Mount St. Charles Academy, where he debuted for the USNTP Under-17 team in 2023. His journey reflects resilience and potential, qualities that the Flyers hope to harness as he progresses in his career.
Strategic Implications for the Flyers
The Flyers’ decision to trade down in the draft aligns with a broader strategy to accumulate assets and build depth within their organization. By acquiring an additional second-round pick, the team has positioned itself to address multiple needs and bolster its prospect pool.
This approach reflects a growing trend in the NHL, where teams increasingly prioritize flexibility and long-term planning over immediate gains. The Flyers’ front office, led by General Manager Chuck Fletcher, has demonstrated a commitment to this philosophy, aiming to create a sustainable model for success.
Expert Opinions on the Flyers’ Draft Strategy
Hockey analysts have praised the Flyers’ draft strategy, noting that the team’s willingness to trade down and accumulate picks could pay dividends in the future. “The Flyers are playing the long game,” remarked an NHL draft expert. “By focusing on depth and development, they’re setting themselves up for sustained success.”
“The move represents a shift in how teams approach the draft, with an emphasis on building a robust pipeline of talent,” added another analyst.
Looking Ahead: The Flyers’ Future Prospects
As the Flyers continue to navigate the complexities of team building in the modern NHL, their focus remains on developing young talent and fostering a competitive environment. The selection of Carter Amico, along with the additional picks acquired, underscores their commitment to this vision.
With the 2025 draft now in the rearview mirror, the Flyers will turn their attention to integrating these new prospects into their system. The upcoming seasons will be critical in determining how these strategic decisions translate into on-ice success.
Meanwhile, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the Flyers’ draft class of 2025 begins to make its mark, hopeful that the team’s calculated approach will yield positive results in the years to come.
