Jakob Pelletier Is Embracing Change And A Fresh Start With The Flyers

Jakob Pelletier’s arrival to the Philadelphia Flyers marks a new chapter in the young forward’s hockey career, one filled with anticipation, adjustment, and a determination to prove himself as a valuable addition to the Flyers’ roster.

Jakob Pelletier’s arrival to the Philadelphia Flyers marks a new chapter in the young forward’s hockey career, one filled with anticipation, adjustment, and a determination to prove himself as a valuable addition to the Flyers’ roster.

After being traded from the Calgary Flames, Pelletier spoke candidly about the whirlwind journey that brought him to the City of Brotherly Love and the emotions that come with leaving one team behind to join another.

“It feels good just to be here and to see the guys,” Pelletier shared after his first practice with the Flyers. “It’s been a rough week, being by myself a little bit. Yeah, it’s been long, but it’s good that I’m here now.”

The path to Philadelphia was anything but smooth for Pelletier and fellow forward Andrei Kuzmenko, who was also part of the trade. Following the deal, logistical hurdles and travel delays turned what should have been a routine journey into a drawn-out ordeal.

“We left Calgary on Wednesday afternoon. We got into Toronto at midnight, then we were supposed to fly here at nine yesterday, so we got to the airport at seven-thirty. Then they told us our flight was canceled, and our next flight was at two, but then it got delayed until four-thirty,” Pelletier recounted. “So yeah, it was a long day! But we made it in time for the second period [of the Flyers vs. Capitals game on Thursday].”

A Bittersweet Goodbye to Calgary

Pelletier’s departure from the Flames wasn’t easy. Known for his infectious energy and strong relationships with teammates, he admitted that leaving the organization and the city he had come to care deeply about was a difficult pill to swallow.

“Oh, it was tough,” he acknowledged. “I’m a guy who cares a lot about the team and the guys [in Calgary], so I’m gonna do the same thing here. When I care a lot about something, it’s hard to say bye, but it’s the business. It’s part of the game. But once I take a step back, I’m pretty excited to be here and to meet the guys and to hopefully play.”

His passion for the game and his teammates is evident, and it’s clear that Pelletier intends to bring that same level of commitment to the Flyers.

“I heard good things about the team. The whole thing was just to come here and play as hard as I can each game and each practice,” he said.

A Warm Welcome in Philadelphia

Adjusting to a new team can be daunting, but Pelletier has already felt the support of the Flyers’ veteran leadership.

“[Nic Deslauriers] called me the day after I got traded, and [Sean Couturier] texted me the same night, so it means a lot to me,” Pelletier shared. “They make you feel welcomed and appreciated, so, yeah, it means the world, to be honest.”

Philadelphia Flyers forwards Sean Couturier (14) and Jakob Pelletier (22) listen to assistant coach Rocky Thompson during practice on Feb. 7, 2025.

That sense of belonging can be crucial for a young player navigating the challenges of a mid-season trade. The Flyers, who pride themselves on a close-knit locker room, seem to be providing Pelletier with a strong foundation as he integrates into the team.

A "Dog on a Bone" Approach

At just 5-foot-9, Pelletier is not the biggest player on the ice, but what he lacks in size, he makes up for in heart and intensity. His self-described playing style is one that Flyers fans will likely embrace wholeheartedly.

“I’m a dog on a bone,” he declared. “I’m a guy who plays every shift like it’s the last one. I’m not the biggest guy, but you know, I’m gonna hit guys. I’m gonna go in front of the net. I’m gonna do everything in my power to win each game here.”