Philadelphia Flyers winger Jakob Pelletier (22) during practice on Mar. 3, 2025. (Megan DeRuchie-The Hockey News)
Jakob Pelletier knew this game was coming.
Ever since the trade that sent him from the Calgary Flames to the Philadelphia Flyers, it was inevitable that he would have to face his former team at some point. And now, for the first time since being dealt, he's set to line up against the team that drafted him.
There are emotions, of course. How could there not be? Pelletier had been open about how much Calgary meant to him, and it wasn't easy leaving behind the relationships he built there.
But that's the nature of the business. Now, he's a Flyer, fully locked into a team that's pushing for a playoff spot, and all that matters is finding a way to win.
"I'm excited because it's a big game, and right now it's a big game for us because we want to make the playoffs," Pelletier said ahead of the matchup. "So I'm really excited, and hopefully we get a big win here tonight."
It's a testament to where his focus is—on the present, not the past. However difficult it might be seeing old teammates on the other bench, it will be secondary to the task at hand. The Flyers need points, and Pelletier is determined to help get them.
Finding His Footing in Philadelphia
The transition to a new team is never seamless, especially for a young player who had spent his entire career in one organization. There’s an adjustment period—learning new systems, getting to know new teammates, settling into a new city. But Pelletier has handled it well.
“I feel good,” he said. “I’ve played four games and we had points in all four of them, so we’ve just gotta keep going. I think we’re playing well. We’re all playing on the same page, and I think we can see what happens when we’re playing like that.”
Philadelphia Flyers forwards Garnet Hathaway (19), Jakob Pelletier (22), and Ryan Poehling (25). (Megan DeRuchie-The Hockey News)
That’s been the most encouraging part—he’s stepped into a Flyers team that has been buzzing since the 4-Nations break. The team has embraced a free-flowing, creative style that plays to his strengths, and he’s bought in completely.
Pelletier has been noticeable with his energy and hockey IQ, even if the points haven’t fully come just yet. He’s aware of that, too.
“I would love to produce more offensively, but so far it’s been good,” he admitted. “I thought our line has been alright in the last four games. I think we can take a step towards bringing more offense and just playing the game the right way.”
That’s the mindset that’s made him such a valuable addition—he’s not content with just blending in. He wants to make an impact, and he believes there’s another level to his game. Given the way the Flyers have been playing, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him break through soon.
Adjusting to a New Home
A bright spot in the midst of such an emotionally-charged trade is that Pelletier is not making this transition alone. Fellow trade acquisition Andrei Kuzmenko came to Philly in the same deal, and having a familiar face has helped both players settle in.
“It’s been good [to have Kuzmenko with me],” Pelletier said. “I think it kind of makes it easier. The guys here were all great to us, but when you get traded, you come here and you don’t know anybody. I didn’t know anyone except Kuzy, so I think the fact that we came together kind of made it a little easier for us.”
On top of that, he’s quickly learning to enjoy his new surroundings. Philadelphia has been welcoming, and he’s already gotten a taste of the city’s sports scene.
“Yeah, [Philly] is nice. I walked around yesterday, and the day before. It’s a nice city,” he said. “I went to the Sixers game too! I think it was my second NBA game, so it’s great. Just being around, especially when you win games—I can’t wait to see what the atmosphere is gonna be for playoffs.”
That last part is telling. He hasn’t been here long, but he already understands what this city is about. Flyers fans are passionate, and playoff hockey in Philadelphia is a different beast entirely. He’s eager to experience it firsthand.
A Game to Remember
Tonight won’t just be another game on the schedule for Pelletier. It’s a personal milestone, a full-circle moment. There will be familiar faces, old friendships, and memories of the journey that led him here.
But once the puck drops, none of that will matter. This isn’t about the past. It’s about the Flyers, about their playoff push, about proving that he can be a difference-maker in a team that has welcomed him with open arms.
There’s no doubt that he’ll take a moment to appreciate the journey. But when the game begins, he’ll be locked in. And, as always, he’ll be giving everything he has to help his new team win.
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