Philadelphia Flyers GM Daniel Briere has confirmed the signing of Rodrigo Abols to a one-year, two-way contract worth an average annual value of $775,000. Abols, standing at 6-foot-4, was originally drafted 184th overall in the 2016 NHL Draft. During the 2023-24 season, he played for Rögle BK in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL), where he showcased his skills with 14 goals and 12 assists in 50 games.
His performance included leading the team in power-play goals, ranking second in overall goals, and tying for third in game-winning goals.
The forward from Riga, Latvia, has amassed an impressive record in the SHL over six seasons split between Rögle BK and Örebro, totaling 85 goals and 78 assists for 163 points across 266 games. Abols also made his debut in the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Springfield Thunderbirds during the 2019-20 season, contributing 23 points from seven goals and 16 assists over 36 games.
Internationally, Abols has been a stalwart for Latvia, participating in various tournaments including the 2014 Under-18 World Junior Championship Division 1A, where he helped secure a gold medal. His international journey continued with appearances at the 2014, 2015, and 2016 Under-20 World Junior Championship Division 1A events. Notably, he has represented Latvia in the Men’s World Championship on eight occasions, achieving a bronze medal in 2023 and another bronze at the 2018 Olympic Winter Games.
Daniel Briere’s announcement underscores the Flyers’ strategic move to bolster their roster with Abols’ versatile skills and international experience.
His proven ability to perform at multiple levels, from the AHL to the SHL and on the international stage, highlights his potential to contribute significantly to the team’s upcoming season. This signing reflects the Flyers’ commitment to enhancing their lineup with seasoned talent capable of making impactful contributions both on and off the ice.
From Riga, Latvia, Rodrigo Abols has compiled an impressive track record in the SHL spanning six seasons split between Rögle BK and Örebro, amassing a total of 85 goals and 78 assists, resulting in 163 points across 266 games. Additionally, he made his AHL debut with the Springfield Thunderbirds in the 2019-20 season, where he tallied 23 points from seven goals and 16 assists in 36 games.
Abols has been a key player for Latvia on the international stage, participating in various tournaments such as the 2014 Under-18 World Junior Championship Division 1A, where he played a pivotal role in securing a gold medal for his team. His international career further includes appearances in the 2014, 2015, and 2016 Under-20 World Junior Championship Division 1A events. Moreover, he has represented Latvia in the Men’s World Championship on eight occasions, achieving notable success with bronze medals in 2023 and at the 2018 Olympic Winter Games.
Daniel Briere’s announcement emphasizes the Philadelphia Flyers’ strategic decision to strengthen their roster with Abols’ versatile skill set and extensive international experience.
His proven ability to perform across different leagues, from the AHL to the prestigious SHL and on global platforms, underscores his potential to make significant contributions to the team in the upcoming season. This signing underscores the Flyers’ commitment to augmenting their lineup with seasoned talent capable of making meaningful impacts both on and off the ice.
