Cutter Gauthier declined to go to Development Camp...and it’s not a big deal

We can never be happy. Today it was announced that Cutter Gauthier has declined the invitation to development camp and it has sent portions of the fanbase into a frenzy.

Flyers GM Danny Briere on Cutter Gauthier declining invite to development camp: “Cutter was invited, declined to come. We’re assuming that is because he’s played a lot of hockey with the World Championship, lots of travel. We’re not too worried about that.”

— Adam Kimelman (@NHLAdamK) July 1, 2023

I don’t get the outrage as he was never expected to be at the development camp regardless. At the time did we think that was because of a NCAA rule? Sure.

NCAA players can attend a second development camp at their own cost, but the expenses are on them. Cutter Gauthier has also played hockey non-stop over the last year and knows he’ll be here in March.

Yes. But a player can attend a second camp if he pays 100% of the expenses and isn’t enrolled in any summer classes).

— Bill Meltzer (@billmeltzer) July 1, 2023

So I ask anyone outraged this question: Why should Cutter Gauthier attend development camp?

His path up to the Philadelphia Flyers is essentially written in stone. I assume his mindset is to rest now because he needs it for this marathon of a year approaching shortly.

The concern from the fanbase comes from the Flyers side as they mentioned not knowing the reason for his absence. I wouldn’t fret, yes it’s frustrating to all of those who wanted to see him in Voorhees and probably the Flyers brass.

The fact of it is Cutter Gauthier already knows his path and is most likely making calculated decisions to get to his destination. I expect nothing out of this year, but I do expect to see Cutter Gauthier arrive at some point.

Let’s calm it down.