The Philadelphia Flyers have officially signed center Noah Cates to a four-year contract extension, solidifying their commitment to a young core player who has emerged as a reliable two-way presence on the ice. The deal was announced by the team on Wednesday, with Cates set to remain in Philadelphia through the 2028-29 NHL season.
Cates, 25, has been a steady contributor since breaking into the league, known for his smart defensive play, versatility, and consistency in the faceoff circle. The contract extension speaks to the organization’s long-term vision, as they continue their rebuilding and retooling efforts under the leadership of General Manager Daniel Brière and Head Coach John Tortorella.
Selected in the fifth round (137th overall) of the 2017 NHL Draft by the Flyers, Cates took the college route before turning pro, starring at the University of Minnesota-Duluth. He quickly impressed coaches and teammates alike with his maturity and work ethic, making his NHL debut late in the 2021-22 season and showing immediate impact.
Over the past two seasons, Cates has played an increasingly important role on both ends of the ice. In the 2022-23 season, he played all 82 games, notching 38 points (13 goals, 25 assists) and earning high praise for his defensive capabilities. His responsible play earned him consideration for the Selke Trophy, awarded to the NHL’s best defensive forward — a notable accomplishment for such a young player.
Although his offensive numbers dipped slightly in 2023-24 due to the team’s inconsistent scoring, Cates continued to contribute in crucial situations. He has regularly been used on the penalty kill and in defensive zone faceoffs, often drawing the toughest assignments from opposing lines. His presence down the middle adds stability to the Flyers’ lineup, which includes other promising young talents such as Morgan Frost, Owen Tippett, and Joel Farabee.
The Flyers’ decision to lock up Cates for four more years signals trust in his role as a foundational piece of their future. While financial details of the contract were not immediately disclosed, reports suggest the deal is both team-friendly and reflects the value Cates brings as a defensively responsible center who can chip in offensively.
This extension also aligns with the Flyers’ broader strategy of building a competitive roster from within, focusing on developing draft picks and younger players rather than relying solely on blockbuster trades or free-agent signings.
With this move, Philadelphia continues to shape its roster for the long haul, and Cates’ leadership and two-way skillset will no doubt play a key role in whatever success lies ahead.
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