Rookie camp is nearly here for the Flyers, as 24 players will hit the ice on Thursday. Aside from a few days of camp, they will take place in two games against rookies from the New York Rangers.
While we've already focused on some of the bigger names in attendance, there are other players worth keeping an eye on. Most of the forwards attending rookie camp are well known, either from being recently drafted or being at the top of the pecking order. Go down the list, and there are hardly any unknown names.
But some defensemen are making a name for themselves in the organization and should be getting more attention. And there is one who has a chance to be another diamond in the rough for the Flyers.
Ethan Samson
Samson is probably one of the most under-the-radar defensive prospects in the Flyers' system. But he quietly stood out for the Phantoms in his second season. He doubled his point total (24) from his rookie season and led all defensemen in goals (12). Samson was top-10 on the team in both categories. This season will be the final year of his entry-level deal.
Samson does all the little things right and took a step forward despite playing third-pair minutes. His two-way game is noticeable, although he will need to refine his defensive game to reach the next level. Plus/minus isn't the most important stat and doesn't take everything into account, but his -12 was the worst on the Phantoms' defense.
The reason he could be on the map is due to Rasmus Ristolainen's injury. It's expected that he won't be ready to start the season, which opens up a possible spot on the blueline. Samson may not be first in line, but he could get himself there.
Ty Murchison
Murchison recently signed his entry-level contract after completing his final season at Arizona State. If you're looking for an offensive defenseman, that's not Murchison. However, he is strong in his own end and isn't afraid to block shots. He was named the NCHC Defensive Defenseman of the Year and led the conference with 90 blocks. By the way, that was 30 more than the next closest player.
Murchison's size is an asset as well, using his long reach to break up plays. He appeared in four games for the Phantoms after his collegiate season ended. The defensive defenseman picked up a goal and an assist during that time. It took some time for the Flyers to sign him, but it appears they like what they have.
He won't play in the NHL this upcoming season, but there is something to like about his game.
Andre Mondoux
Mondoux is one of only two players attending rookie camp as an invite. He is also the only invitee getting another chance after attending development camp in July. Mondoux began last season in the OJHL before earning a call-up to the OHL with the Kingston Frontenacs. He bounced back and forth between the two leagues, which isn't an unusual tactic. It's often used to help players stay prepared for the opportunities ahead of them.
Mondoux stands at 6'4" and weighs in at over 200 pounds. Just look at the Flyers' most recent draft class and you can see how much the size factor comes alive. The Flyers' defensive prospect pool isn't as deep, so there's a chance Mondoux could impress enough and earn himself an entry-level deal.
Regardless, the Flyers are clearly impressed with what they've seen from Mondoux thus far. It's up to him to prove that he's worthy of a contract before he heads back to the OHL.