As the Philadelphia Flyers gear up for training camp, all eyes are on top prospect Jett Luchanko. The Flyers selected the dynamic center 13th overall in the 2024 NHL Draft. Will he make the NHL roster for opening night?
At just 19 years old, Luchanko has already shown flashes of brilliance. He earned an NHL opening night roster spot last season. Later, he held his own during the Calder Cup playoffs. Now he has his sights set on another NHL roster spot, only a permanent one this time.
CBA works against Luchanko
Under the terms of the new NHL/NHLPA Collective Bargaining Agreement, teams can make one 19-year-old player exempt to the CHL/AHL age rule. Unfortunately, the new rule does not take effect until the 2026-27 season. Correspondingly, Luchanko remains in the same situation he was in last year. It’s either the NHL or back to the Ontario Hockey League.
Additionally, there’s a injury factor. Luchanko missed Flyers Development Camp and the World Junior Summer Showcase with a nagging — but minor — groin issue.
These factors seem to work against Luchanko’s immediate pro hockey aspirations. However, don’t bet against the player. As long as he’s healthy, the teenager has a fighting chance to make the NHL team.
Luchanko stock rose fast
Luchanko played very well in NHL training camp last year. This held true both in preseason games and day- to day in practice. He did not register a point in his four NHL regular season games. However, in fairness, the player received very sparing ice time from former head coach John Tortorella.
Luchanko returned to the Guelph Storm in the OHL to further hone his skills. The plamaking center’s raw numbers were good but not great. However, keep in mind that Guelph had one the weakest squads in the league. It was not uncommon for Luchanko to set up four or more prime scoring chances for his linemates yet come away with zero points or just one.
Morever, Luchanko’s late-season assignment to the Phantoms proved transformative. Joining Lehigh Valley in March 2025, Luchanko quickly adapted to the professional level, leading all AHL playoff skaters in assists over the league’s first two playoffs rounds. This immediate success highlighted his playmaking ability and two-way game. He earned praise from coaches and scouts alike.
Believe it or not, Luchanko’s blazing speed and passing touch were not what made the hockey establishment take notice. Rather, they loved his response when he made a mistake or took a bad penalty. Inevitably, he corrected the issue himself and got right back on track.
No such thing as too ready
One more developmental season wouldn’t hurt the player. There’s no such thing as “a prospect being “too ready” for the NHL. If Luchanko does not make the NHL team out of training camp. it’s not an indictment of his upside.
Guelph remains a likely non-contender in the OHL playoff picture. Barring a trade to a contender, Luchanko should once again be available to join the Phantoms for the stretch drive and playoffs. He’s on an upward trajectory and has all the tools to evolve into a nucleus player for the Flyers.
Wherever he plays in 2025-26, Flyers fans should track Luchanko’s progress closely.It’s all about what is best for his growth. This could be the season that helps solidify Luchanko as the franchise’s next cornerstone along with fellow prospect Porter Martone.
need to hit on Jett, Porter and 2 other picks that are not first rounders. And of course Nesbitt