Oskar Lindblom’s long and winding road has taken a turn for the better. Earlier this week, the Philadelphia Flyers made the difficult decision to jettison the left winger, buying out the remaining years of his contract, saving $3 million in cap space plus an extra $333,333 in credit because of his age and contract structure.
The Flyers decided the cap relief was worthwhile, especially after Lindblom struggled in 2012-22 with just 12 goals and 26 points in 79 games. But it was a decidedly unsentimental move after Lindblom fought back from cancer treatment during the 2019-20 regular season, returned for the postseason, played in 50 of Philadelphia’s 56 games last season and took home the 2020-21 Masterton Trophy for his perseverance and dedication to the sport.
The respect and admiration of a fan base wasn’t enough. Lindblom was sent packing, but he reportedly has landed on his feet quickly, signing a two-year contract with the San Jose Sharks on Day 1 of 2022 free agency. The deal, first reported by The Athletic’s Corey Masisak, carries a $2.5 million average annual value, per The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun.
Before his disappointing 2021-22, Lindblom had shown some promise as a goal-scorer with the Flyers, scoring 17 times in 81 games in 2018-19, his sophomore season, and increasing his scoring rate with 11 in 30 games the following season. His production hasn’t matched those heights since he was diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma in December 2019.
The further he’s removed from his recovery, however, the more likely it is he’ll rediscover his touch – and he’ll certainly have his opportunities on a Sharks team desperate for forward depth.
“Oskar is a proven forward who can provide offensive upside in the middle of our lineup,” said freshly minted GM Mike Grier in a statement. “He has overcome significant obstacles in his young career and his strength and desire to play hockey is immeasurable. We are happy to have him join our organization.”
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