Dan Vladar Returns to the Flyers’ Net as Goaltending Carousel Continues
The Flyers are getting a much-needed boost in net tonight. Dan Vladar has officially been activated and, barring any last-minute surprises, he’s expected to get the start against the Blue Jackets in Columbus. For a team that's been navigating a rough stretch, Vladar’s return couldn’t come at a better time.
Vladar has been a steady presence between the pipes this season, giving the Flyers a chance to win on most nights. His calm demeanor and positional discipline have been key assets, especially in a year where consistency has been hard to come by. With the Flyers trying to snap out of a funk, having Vladar back in goal brings a sense of stability that’s been sorely missing.
Kolosov Heads Back to Lehigh Valley
With Vladar returning, Aleksei Kolosov has been reassigned to the Lehigh Valley Phantoms. His most recent stint with the Flyers was a tough one - not entirely of his own making, but difficult nonetheless.
Kolosov was called up after Vladar went down with an injury during a January 14th game against the Sabres. At the time, the Flyers were already three games into what would become a six-game losing skid. It was a brutal moment to step into the NHL spotlight, especially for a young goalie still finding his footing in North America.
He saw action in just two games. On January 15th, he came in to relieve Samuel Ersson against the Penguins, logging just over 37 minutes.
He faced 16 shots, surrendered three goals, and was tagged with the loss. Two nights later, he got the start against the Rangers - a night he’ll likely want to forget.
Kolosov gave up goals on the first three shots he faced and was pulled just 8:25 into the game. That brief, rocky outing marked the end of his time with the Flyers during this call-up.
It’s a far cry from his earlier stint in November, when he looked more composed and confident. Back then, he stepped in for Vladar against Toronto, stopped all seven shots he faced, and followed it up with a solid start against Calgary, allowing just two goals on 21 shots.
The team lost that game 2-1, but Kolosov’s performance was hardly the issue. If he’s remembered for anything in his early NHL experience, he’d surely prefer it be that November stretch.
Goaltending Woes in Lehigh Valley
While Kolosov was with the Flyers, the Phantoms turned to Carson Bjarnason - and the results weren’t exactly encouraging. Bjarnason, who’s had a promising season overall, struggled during this stretch.
He went 1-2-0 while Kolosov was away and had a pair of outings he’ll want to move past quickly. In one start, he allowed six goals on 20 shots.
In the next, he was pulled after just 11:50 of play, having given up three goals on four shots.
It’s been a rough January across the board for Flyers goaltending, both in the NHL and down in the AHL. The organization has had to lean on its depth, and while that’s part of the process for any team, it’s clear the Flyers are hoping Vladar’s return can help right the ship.
Looking Ahead
Tonight’s game in Columbus marks more than just another regular-season matchup - it’s a chance for the Flyers to reset. They’ve been stuck in a slump, and while the issues go beyond goaltending, getting Vladar back is a big step in the right direction. If he can regain his rhythm quickly, it could be the spark this team needs to get back on track.
For Kolosov, the focus now shifts back to Lehigh Valley, where he’ll look to regroup and continue his development. The talent is there, but like most young goaltenders, he’s learning that the NHL isn’t always a forgiving place. His time will come again - and next time, he’ll be looking to make a stronger impression.
For now, all eyes are on Vladar. The Flyers need him to be sharp, and if he is, they just might start turning the tide.