2012 NHL Free Agents: Flyers and Teams Who Should Just Rely on Young Players

The Philadelphia Flyers are one of many NHL teams that would be much better off relying on their young players to contribute next season than making a move and sign a veteran free-agent over the next few months.

If young players are ready to play, especially ones that are very talented, there's no reason to deny them an opportunity to gain some valuable NHL experience.

Let's look at three teams that should stay away from free agency and make changes from within their organization.

Chicago Blackhawks

The Blackhawks haven't been able to sign any impact players in free agency, but they do have some good young players ready for larger roles next season.

One of those players is Brandan Saad, who could be used at center on the team's third or fourth line. Winger Andrew Shaw will also be expected to improve next season after playing in just 37 games with the Blackhawks last year.

The Blackhawks have salary cap space to work with, but should save it in case they want to make a mid-season trade for a star player.

Florida Panthers

The Panthers may decide to add a veteran in free agency, but if they don't, there is no reason to be concerned.

The continued development at both ends of the ice of defenseman Erik Gudbranson, and the NHL debut of Jonathan Huberdeau, will have the Panthers facing high expectations going into a season for the first time in a while.

The Panthers would be smart to avoid the free-agent market at this point, and move forward with their young players who are ready to contribute in the NHL.

Philadelphia Flyers

At this point in the offseason, the Flyers should just fill out their roster with young players from within the organization.

According to Tim Panaccio of CSN Philly, the Flyers have signed RFA winger Jakub Voracek to a four-year deal worth $4.25 million per season, which is a nice raise from his $2.25 million salary last season.

Allowing young talents such as Matt Read, Brayden Schenn, and Voracek to play more minutes and keep improving is a better strategy for the Flyers than signing anyone on the free-agent market.