Garnet Hathaway, an experienced Flyers checking forward, recently secured a two-year contract extension until the 2026-27 season. In a virtual interview with local media conducted over Zoom, Hathaway delved into his thoughts on the fresh agreement. Notably, the Flyers’ roster is currently projected to be the second youngest in the National Hockey League, based on average age.

On the roster, we have some experienced veterans: Hathaway, a 32-year-old right wing, Deslauriers, a rugged winger at 33 years old, and Johnson, a 36-year-old defenseman.

Prior to the expiration of his contract, Hathaway will reach the age of 35 in a few months. Starting from the 2025-26 season, his extension will take effect with an average annual value (AAV) of $2.4 million. Currently, his AAV stands at $2.37 million.

Hathaway expressed his desire to not only play for the Flyers in the 2024-25 season but also the two subsequent seasons. His main motivation behind this decision is his belief that during this timeframe, the team will transition out of the rebuilding phase and establish themselves as a formidable contender in the Eastern Conference.

Flyers forward @GarnetHathaway meets with the media to discuss his two-year extension and staying in Philly. #LetsGoFlyers pic.twitter.com/AF8lGZX5AY

— Philadelphia Flyers (@NHLFlyers) July 15, 2024

Hathaway expressed her desire to witness the moment when their plan truly begins to soar, envisioning a future where their success surpasses all previous achievements.

Despite his age and aggressive physical style, the player confidently brushed off any worries about his diminishing effectiveness as he approaches his mid-30s. Hathaway, one of only four Flyers players to dress in all 82 games in the 2023-24 season, maintains exceptional physical fitness and has no intentions of altering his approach. Notably, Hathaway’s impressive tally of 326 credited hits last season secured him the second spot in the NHL rankings.

Everyone knows Hathaway’s game inside out – from himself and his coaches, to his teammates and opponents. He fully comprehends that the Flyers are relying on him to maintain his dominant presence in forechecking, contribute to penalty kills, provoke opponents on the ice, and be a valuable presence in the locker room.

Hathaway expressed her desire to fulfill the organization’s perception of her and the importance of her role in the team, emphasizing her commitment to being present for them.

During the 2023-24 campaign, Hathaway formed a strong partnership with Ryan Poehling, predominantly serving as his center. Initially, they were both part of the fourth line alongside Deslauriers, which earned them the nickname “PHD Line”. As the season progressed, Poehling and Hathaway were promoted to the third line, occasionally even reaching second-line status during 5-on-5 play. In these instances, they frequently collaborated with Tyson Foerster, particularly towards the end of the season.

Hathaway expresses his desire to continue playing alongside Poehling as linemates in the upcoming season.

“I think we complement each other,” Hathaway said. “He’s got that speed, that skill, that vision and then his awareness on the D-side of the puck. I think he’s really good.”