The Flyers are making moves during the Olympic break, recalling defenseman Oliver Bonk and Hunter McDonald from their AHL affiliate, the Lehigh Valley Phantoms. Flyers Assistant Coach Todd Reirden confirmed the news, highlighting that the pair will join the team for practice starting February 18.
With key players like Travis Sanheim and Rasmus Ristolainen away representing their national teams, the Flyers are seizing the opportunity to assess their depth. Reirden pointed out that this recall allows the team to evaluate Bonk’s development, while McDonald has already had a taste of the NHL environment.
“We will have a couple of extra bodies tomorrow. This gives us a shot to see where Bonk is at; we know where McDonald is at,” Reirden stated.
Bonk, the Flyers’ first-round pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, has been honing his skills in the AHL. After overcoming an early-season injury, he’s played 22 games, showcasing his potential as a mobile right-shot defenseman with the upside of securing a top-four NHL role in the future.
This recall seems to be more about development and practice rather than immediate NHL action, with both Bonk and McDonald still waiting for their NHL debuts. Goaltender Carson Bjarnason has also been recalled under similar circumstances.
The Flyers are gradually getting healthier, and Bonk’s return adds depth to their prospect pool. If injuries or performance issues arise, Bonk might get a chance to step up and make his mark on the blue line down the stretch.