Flyers sign Shayne Gostisbehere to six-year extension

The Philadelphia Flyers have signed defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere to a six-year deal worth $27 million. 

Defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere rocked the NHL during his rookie season in 2015-16. After injuries to the Philadelphia Flyers blue line forced his call up, he put up 46 points in 63 games. Gostisbehere helped his team make the playoffs in his rookie season. However, he saw his numbers decline in 2016-17, but still finished with 39 points. The Flyers have announced they’ve signed Gostisbehere to a six-year deal worth $27 million.

“It’s a dream come true to be part of one of the best organizations in hockey,” Gostisbehere said, via NHL.com. “With everything that’s going on here – we’ve got some young guys coming up and we’ve already got some key pieces – it’s nice to know you’re part of the future and part of the plans. There’s many more steps to come and hopefully it leads to some great things. It’s a tremendous honor to realize you’re part of the future.”

The Flyers got aggressive signing him, and rightfully so. Even in a down year, Gostisbehere was extremely productive. Puck moving defensemen are the norm in today’s NHL and he can impact possession. In the 2016-17 season, Gostisbehere had a 3.4 relative CorsiFor percentage at even strength while averaging 19:36 of ice time per game.

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Because the Flyers have cheap blue liners on entry level deals, they can afford to extend their players long-term. Last offseason, they did this with Radko Gudas. This offseason, Gostisbehere is the beneficiary. He remains their top power play option, scoring 23 of his 39 points with the man advantage. While Gostisbehere’s even strength production is slightly concerning, his resume suggests last season was most likely a fluke. He’s an important part of their future moving forward. Expect more great things from the man they call ghost bear.