Philly Leader

The Flyers Training Center in Voorhees has come alive again with the sights and sounds of professional hockey. With Labor Day behind them, players' on-ice informal workouts are nearing the full group that will participate in NHL training camp.

First up is Rookie Camp. Before Head Coach John Tortorella's skating test marks the start of NHL camp, Flyers prospects will be on the ice this week in Voorhees.

On Friday and Saturday, the Flyers prospects will play a two-game "Rookie Series" at the PPL Center in Allentown against their counterparts from the New York Rangers.

As we count down to the season, here are six Flyers prospects to watch in Rookie Camp and the Rookie Series:

Matvei Michkov (RW): This 19-year-old Russian is arguably the most highly touted Flyers prospect at camp since Eric Lindros' arrival in 1992. Michkov made his pro debut in Russia's KHL at age 16 and is considered one of the best pure offensive talents in any NHL organization. He faces many adjustments ahead, but his skill and dedication to the game are evident.

Jett Luchanko (C): The Flyers' 2024 first-round pick likely needs at least one year before challenging for an NHL roster spot. The 18-year-old Guelph Storm standout is unusually mature as a two-way player and possesses significant potential as a playmaker. His first Rookie Camp will serve as a benchmark for his progression over the 2024-25 season.

Oliver Bonk (D): Entering his draft-plus-two season after being selected by the Flyers with one of their two 2023 first-round picks, Bonk is coming off an excellent season with the London Knights. Under CHL/AHL age rules, he is not eligible for the AHL this season. However, his performance in Rookie Camp and NHL Camp this September will test his growth since last year. In the Rookie Series, it will be interesting to see if "Bumper Bonk" is deployed as a forward on power plays due to his offensive breakout last year.

Denver Barkey (RW): Bonk's London teammate had a stellar all-around season last year for OHL champions. He played both ends of special teams and emerged as one of junior hockey's top shorthanded scoring threats. Like Bonk, he is a season away from being age-eligible for AHL play with the Phantoms. The 5-foot-9 forward started out as a center but now primarily plays winger despite starting a game in the middle for Team Canada at the 2024 World Junior Summer Showcase.

Samu Tuomaala (RW): The Finnish forward enjoyed a strong first half for the Phantoms last year, earning an AHL All-Star Game spot. His performance declined post-All-Star break, and he sustained an injury that kept him out of Calder Cup playoffs late last season. The upcoming season is crucial for Tuomaala; further development must be shown if he aims to push for NHL promotion.

Carson Bjarnason (G): The Flyers have high hopes for both Bjarnason and fellow 2023 draftee Yegor Zavragin. With Zavragin still developing in Russia, Bjarnason—selected 51st overall—is aiming to impress at Rookie Camp. The Brandon Wheat Kings netminder also contends for a spot on Team Canada at the 2024-25 World Junior Championships.