Philadelphia Flyers' 2018 first-rounder Jay O'Brien will not sign with team

O’Brien, 23, was a first-round pick by Philadelphia in 2018 after spending the year playing prep hockey. He joined Providence College for the 2018-19 season, but had just five points in 25 games. Deferring from college, O'Brien joined the BCHL’s Penticton Vees for 2019-20.

After one year in the BCHL, he joined Boston University for 2020-21. He was averaging a point-per-game through 16 games and put up 22 points in 24 games the following season. O’Brien missed time due to an injury last year and required hip surgery, but was back in time to start the 2022-23 season. His college career came to an end earlier this week after recording 32 points in 39 games for the campaign.

While Friedman didn’t give a reason for the Flyers non-signing, a lack of positive progression is likely the case. As a senior, O'Brien fell short of was a valuable piece of BU’s attack, but far from a dominant one. It is also worth noting that O’Brien was drafted by Ron Hextall, two GMs before current boss Daniel Briere.

As a free agent, O'Brien could serve as a decent depth pickup somewhere in the league. A quick skater, he brings significant energy and a decent shot to the ice. He could be a quality AHLer with the chance to play a depth role from time to time, assuming a team gives him a chance.