Flyers, Maple Leafs, and More: The Race to Sign Karsen Dorwart Heats Up

The race for college free agents is heating up, and while some players have already hit the market, the biggest names will become available in the coming weeks as the Frozen Four tournament wraps up. One of the most intriguing prospects in this year’s class is Michigan State forward Karsen Dorwart, who is expected to draw significant interest from NHL teams. 

According to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, multiple teams believe the Philadelphia Flyers are poised to make a strong push for Dorwart’s services.

At just 22 years old, Dorwart is wrapping up his junior year with the Spartans, a season that has seen a slight dip in his offensive production. After an impressive 15-goal, 19-assist campaign in 38 games last year, he’s tallied 11 goals and 16 assists through 33 games this season. 

Despite the drop, he remains Michigan State’s second-leading scorer, trailing only Tampa Bay prospect Isaac Howard.

Dorwart’s talent has been on the NHL’s radar for a while. Last year, he was considered one of the top college free agents available, and Friedman revealed that the Toronto Maple Leafs came close to signing him before he chose to return to school. 

This time around, it’s likely the Maple Leafs will be back in the mix, hoping to finally land the dynamic forward. As one of the most sought-after free agents again this year, Dorwart is expected to secure a contract that allows him to join an NHL team for the remainder of the season (though he won’t be playoff-eligible) and burn the first year of his entry-level deal in the process. 

The battle for his signature is shaping up to be one of the most compelling storylines of the offseason.

Image - Nick King/Lansing State Journal - Imagn