The Philadelphia Flyers took on the New York Rangers in the second of two Rookie Series games, walking away with a thrilling 3-2 overtime win.
There were some lineup changes for Game 2, with high-profile names like Matvei Michkov and Oliver Bonk not featuring on the ice.
In just two games, fans were able to learn quite a bit about how these players operate in a game setting, and has generated plenty of excitement to see how they perform on their respective teams for the 2024-25 season.
Time To Shine
While Michkov certainly brings that X factor to the Flyers’ offense, one could argue that not having him play in this game gave the other forwards a chance to shine on their own. Luchanko, who impressed on a line with Michkov on Friday, continued prove his doubters wrong by continuing to showcase his mature and skillful presence up front.
Elliot Desnoyers, the third member of Michkov and Luchanko’s line, also had a solid game, while Sawyer Boulton even got in on the scoring action.
There is a noticeable different when Michkov isn’t leading the charge forward, but the offense certainly wasn’t helpless without him there—made even more impressive by the fact that this group has only been playing together for about three days.
A Case For Carson
Carson Bjarnason was handed the start for both games (although head coach Ian Laperriere said that the plan was to sub in Sam Hillebrandt, who is in camp on an amateur try-out, partway through the game), a move that speaks volumes about how much confidence the Flyers have in their young goalie.
The Flyers infamously have had bad luck when it comes to keeping a consistent goalie tandem, and if either Sam Ersson or Ivan Fedotov get injured (knock wood), Bjarnason is proving himself to be a more-than-suitable option to come up the NHL.
Related: Flyers Sign Goalie Carson Bjarnason To Entry-Level Contract
Bjarnason made several crucial stops, showing off a very commendable level of awareness in his crease and a set of lightning-fast reflexes. Flyers fans may still be apprehensive about the current goalie situation, but knowing that Bjarnason is waiting in the wings to take over if he’s needed is a comforting thought.
Big Man McDonald
Hunter McDonald has been another notable name during this rookie camp, and for good reason. The defenseman revealed that he put on 20 pounds of muscle this summer, getting his stats up to 6’4″ and 230 pounds.
Head coach Ian Laperriere has repeatedly praised McDonald’s game, saying that he understands his role as a physical player, but that he’s also been working on moving the puck forward and sharpening his skills to make him a more well-rounded player.
The Flyers are fond of McDonald—that much is obvious—and he’s continued to make a good impression so far in camp. It won’t be an easy task to try and break into the Flyers defense, but McDonald is putting himself in a prime position to fill any gaps that might appear on the back line.
Megan DeRuchie-The Hockey News
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