Shayne Gostisbehere Signs With Philadelphia Flyers

The other shoe for Union college has dropped as Matt Bodie’s teammate Shayne Gostisbehere signs with the Flyers. He was the most outstanding playing in the NCAA Frozen Futures tournament and a major reason Union won their first national title.

Shayne Gostisbehere was drafted by the Flyers in the third round of the 2012 NHL draft, taken 78th overall. Gostisbehere

Photo Courtesy of Union College Flickr

is just further proof that sometimes the players you take in the later rounds can prove to be solid players. He had a solid year with Union as the alternate captain and many believe the 20 year-old defenceman is ready to make the jump into the NHL.

Clearly the Flyers saw something special in their prospect who was named the Most Valuable Player, throughout the Frozen Four tournament and signed him to an entry level contract. Gostisbehere will report to their AHL team, Adirondack Phantoms for the remainder of this season.

He racked up 2 goals and an assist in the Championship game with Union and showed his speed, strength, shot and creativity in front of Flyers brass. Throughout his entire junior season with the Dutchman he managed to recorded 34 points in 42 games. The only tint in Gostisbehere’s armour would be his 5 foot 11 stature, however, with his skill and skating ability he should be able to measure up against the best and tallest in the league.

Perhaps his best aspect is his speed and skating. He has tremendous lateral movement and is able to accelerate quickly in first three strides leaving opponents in his dust as he glides up the ice.

Shayne Gostisbehere was arguably the best defenceman in college hockey this season; His speed, skating ability and creativity on offence, make him a complete package. The Philadelphia Flyers have netted themselves a solid defenceman who will be able to anchor their blue line and run their power play as he gets comfortable in the NHL.

I wouldn’t be surprised to see the then 21 year Shayne Gostisbehere in a Flyers sweater making an immediate impact next NHL season.