As the Philadelphia Flyers continue to fine-tune their roster and strategy, head coach John Tortorella made a striking statement ahead of the team’s Sunday night matchup against the Montreal Canadiens.
Egor Zamula, the young Russian defenseman, was scratched for the game, with Tortorella candidly expressing that it was due to “…not just physical speed, but mental [speed] as far as reading plays, getting up the ice quicker.”
Tortorella said that the team “went a little too far” when it comes to keeping Zamula in the lineup as an interpreter for Michkov and said his scratching comes from concern with the speed of the game. #LetsGoFlyers
— Siobhan Nolan (@SGNolan) October 27, 2024
He also noted that, “We have stopped using him as an interpreter [for fellow Russian player Matvei Michkov, who is still learning English]. I think we went a little bit too far there. It’s time that we talked to [Michkov]…It’s just too much and that’s affected [him] a little bit.”
Since Michkov’s arrival, Zamula has provided a vital friendship to the 19-year-old, while also being a communication bridge to help ease Michkov’s adjustment on and off the ice. In a new country, in a new language, Michkov has found in Zamula someone who understands his background and his personality. Yet, as Tortorella pointed out, the team may have prioritized this supportive role over Zamula’s development—or readiness—as a defenseman, perhaps to the detriment of both the player and the team.
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Tortorella’s comment signals a shift in expectations for Zamula, calling attention to the demanding nature of the NHL and the necessity for each roster spot to bring its own set of contributions to the ice. As the Flyers struggle to find consistency on defense, Tortorella’s choice to sideline Zamula (even temporarily) emphasizes that sentimental or auxiliary roles cannot overshadow on-ice performance.
When Zamula does return to the lineup, the task ahead is unmistakable. Tortorella’s comments underline a need for the young defenseman to catch up to the NHL’s pace, both mentally and physically. For a player like Zamula, known more for his length and reach than explosive speed, adapting to the NHL’s tempo is no small feat. This means developing sharper positioning, quicker decision-making, and a proactive approach to play that will allow him to counter the quick transitions that define today’s game.
However, Tortorella’s critique may prove to be the challenge that unlocks Zamula’s potential. While the defenseman has struggled in certain matchups, a renewed emphasis on closing speed and game awareness could transform him from an inconsistent performer into a reliable asset.
The pressure to adapt could also spark growth in Zamula’s game, pushing him to play a more disciplined, assertive role on defense—one that balances his natural reach with the quickness required to succeed.
Related: Early Struggles Make Egor Zamula Liability For Flyers
The Flyers are still in the process of shaping their defensive identity, mixing younger players with seasoned veterans, while managing injuries and adjusting expectations game by game.
If Zamula can make the necessary adjustments, it could make him an ideal candidate for a long-term role with the team (he signed a two-year contract extension this summer). Yet, if the speed of the game remains a barrier, the Flyers may face tough choices regarding their defensive depth and overall strategy for developing young talent.
In the meantime, the blue line is likely to see more experimentation as Tortorella tests different pairings and tactical approaches. Emil Andrae’s presence offers a fresh opportunity for Tortorella to assess what the team gains from having another defenseman who leans into speed and puck movement, a contrast to Zamula’s strengths and challenges.
“[Andrae] can make a play; he’s not afraid to make a play,” Tortorella said. “He’ll be slotted with that third pair [with Erik Johnson] and we’ll see what happens.”
Ultimately, Tortorella’s message to Zamula is not just about this weekend or the next game. It’s a call to step up, to prove that he belongs in the NHL not only as a helpful presence for Michkov but as a capable defenseman in his own right. The pressure is mounting for Zamula to rise to the occasion and evolve his game to fit the Flyers’ evolving defensive framework.
Megan DeRuchie-The Hockey News
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