The Lehigh Valley Phantoms returned to the ice this weekend after the All-Star break, but their first game back-Saturday’s matchup against Cleveland-showed some signs of rust. The timing was off, the execution wasn’t sharp, and the result reflected that. After a stretch of strong play leading into the break, this one was a step back.
Sunday brought a chance to reset, and the Phantoms responded with a more competitive effort against a tough Syracuse squad. The energy was better, the structure more intact, and they kept things close throughout.
But even with the improved play, they couldn’t quite come away with the win. It’s the kind of back-to-back that leaves a team with mixed feelings-encouraged by the bounce-back, but still searching for results.
Meanwhile, Travis Sanheim finally made his Olympic debut for Team Canada in their game against Switzerland after being a healthy scratch in the opener. It’s a big moment for the veteran defenseman, who’s been a steady presence on the blue line back home. Getting into the mix on international ice gives him a new platform to showcase his two-way game.
Sanheim also had some thoughts on the Tkachuk brothers-Brady and Matthew-who are suiting up for the U.S. Olympic team.
Let’s just say he’s keeping a close eye on them. The Tkachuks bring their usual brand of physical, skilled hockey, and it’s clear there’s no love lost when the border rivalry heats up on the Olympic stage.
Looking ahead, the Olympic medal round is about to get underway in Italy, and the intensity is only going to ramp up. With several NHL-affiliated players still in the mix, there’s plenty for fans to watch as the tournament reaches its most critical stretch.
Back in the AHL, the trade deadline looms large, and there’s growing chatter around possible moves. One name that’s surfaced in discussions: Emil Andrae.
The young defenseman has shown flashes of high-end potential, but with organizational depth on the blue line, it’s fair to wonder if he might be part of a deadline deal. Nothing concrete yet, but the speculation is picking up as teams start to make their moves.
So while the Phantoms continue to grind through the second half of the season, there’s a lot happening on and off the ice-from Olympic debuts to trade rumors. The next few weeks could be pivotal, both for individual players and the organization as a whole.