The Philadelphia Flyers have signed Noah Cates to a four-year extension worth $16 million, or $4 million in AAV.
Cates, who will be 26 when the 2025 season begins, truly had a breakout season in 2024/25. While his point totals may not show a “breakout”, Cates proved himself as a reliable center who can get the job done both offensively and defensively against an opponent’s top line.
The Flyers relied on that line centered by Cates, with Tyson Foerster and Bobby Brink on the wings. Now, all three players will officially be under contract for the next season.
Cates had a career-high 16 goals in 2024/25 and 21 assists for 37 points, the second most of his career. He also had a +/- of three, which was second on the team last season.
Read More: The Daily: Flyers Prospects Win Memorial Cup, Top Draft Prospect To PA, & a Marco Rossi Update
A 2017 fifth-round pick, Cates has proven to be a diamond in the rough, even though he is not an elite scoring center. His defensive ability against opponents’ top lines has been what makes Noah Cates special. Now, the Flyers have seemingly found gold with that line from last season.
Cates was rumored to be headed toward arbitration. Reports said that he preferred a short-term prove-it deal instead of the long-term AAV the Flyers were offering. Instead, the Flyers and Cates were able to agree on term and AAV, and got a long deal done.
With Cates’ new $4 million in AAV, the Flyers have just a touch under $19 million in cap space to resign Cam York, Jakob Pelletier, and make other possible additions to the 2025 roster.
Read More: Could the Flyers Be a Fit for a Top Trade Candidate? (+)
For more Flyers news and up-to-date coverage, visit Philly Hockey Now and like our Facebook page.
Follow us on 𝕏:
@wmjsports
@PhillyHockeyNow