8th year center Chris VandeVelde(76) has spent the last four seasons under contract with Philadelphia Flyers, including the last pair on a one-way deal, as he has been skating exclusively in the highest league since early 2014.
He’s amassed 278 NHL games to his credit, mostly in a fourth line role, which even outpaced the 238 AHL contests he’s appeared in.
Heading into the new session, it was decided they didn’t want to retain the services of the 30-year old unrestricted free agent.
It took a bit of time for the forward to figure out his next move but he finally put ink to paper and signed for the remainder of the season with Lukko of Liiga and could possibly see his highest point totals in the league overseas.
Chris VandeVelde(26) Adirondack Phantoms
4th year center Chris VandeVelde(26) was an invite to Philadelphia Flyers‘ training camp and one of the last cuts reassigned to their minor league affiliate Adirondack Phantoms to start the 2013/2014 season.
The 6’1″ 201 lbs. forward signed an AHL contract in mid-September, but was given every chance to up his status and make the parent club’s opening night roster.
Originally an Edmonton Oilers‘ 4th round pick in the 2005 draft (#97 overall) he has played in 28 NHL through his first three seasons scoring one goal and a pair of assists.
His entry level deal was for two years and added a one-year extension before being left unqualified as an unrestricted free agent going into the current campaign.
The 26-year currently leads the minor league team in goals scored with 7 and is second on the team in points at 13 in 23 games.
He’s on pace to set career highs in all categories potentially approaching a 20/20 season and maybe scoring that elusive big club contract.