BREAKING: Flyers Win Bidding War for Top NCAA Free Agent
The Philadelphia Flyers have secured one of the most sought-after free agents coming out of college hockey, signing Michigan State center Karsen Dorwart.
Per PuckPedia, he lands the maximum entry-level cap hit of $975K on his two-year deal, which begins immediately.
His 2024-25 salary figure will be prorated. Dorwart will earn an $877.5K base salary, a $97.5K signing bonus, and an $85K minors salary each season with no performance bonuses.
The #LetsGoFlyers signed undrafted UFA 22 y/o F Karsen Dorwart to 2 year Entry Level Deal starting this season
— PuckPedia (@PuckPedia) March 28, 2025
Base $877.5K
Signing Bonus $97.5K
Minors 85K
Cap Hit/AAV $975K
Rep'd by Mike Curran @ORR4HOCKEY
31P in 35 NCAA GP
Believe @ADiMarco25 1sthttps://t.co/AxQGob3aEA
What Does Dorwart Bring to the Flyers?
Standing at 6-foot-1, 194 pounds, Dorwart tallied 38 goals and 92 points in 111 games over three seasons at Michigan State. But beyond the numbers, what kind of player is he?
On a recent episode of Daily Faceoff Live, analyst Steven Ellis highlighted Dorwart as a standout among NCAA free agents:
"Karsen Dorwart is probably the best two-way center in this year’s college free-agent class. He controls the puck well, plays a responsible defensive game, and is involved at both ends of the ice. He may not be a high-end scorer, but his hockey IQ and adaptability make him a reliable player in various roles."
Elite Prospects’ 2025 NCAA Free Agency Guide also praised Dorwart’s dynamic playing style:
“His speed and awareness make him a constant threat in transition. He excels at quick give-and-go plays, using creative passes—whether backhand, lobbed, or slipped under sticks—to set up teammates. His passes are consistently well-weighted and perfectly placed.”
Projecting His NHL Role
While Dorwart may not develop into a star, his high-energy, forechecking style suggests he could thrive as a bottom-six forward with potential for more.
Regardless, the Flyers are adding a fast, intelligent center with a strong chance of becoming an NHL regular—an excellent addition to their prospect pool. No complaints there.
Image - Nick King - Imagn