Bobby Brink scores first goal for hometown Wild

Spending the early parts of his career with the Flyers, it was starting to feel like Bobby Brink could be a part of the team's future. But with the logjam of players at the wing and more prospects knocking on the door, his spot became up for grabs. Thus, the Flyers moved him at the trade deadline for a player in a position they needed more.

In the trade, Brink would be given a chance to play for his hometown team. Born in Minnetonka, he played a few years of high school hockey in Minnesota before moving to the junior and collegiate ranks. It's not the first time Brink has had a chance to play professional hockey in his home state. But he had only done so as a visitor. Now he gets to don the jersey of the team he grew up watching.

"I remember sitting in there and watching guys like Parise and Gaborik score goals. So, special day," Brink said after his Wild home debut.

Brink makes dream come true with goal for Wild

There was a moment that Brink may have had his home debut cut short. During his second shift of the game, he was pushed by Logan Cooley and went hard into the boards. He left the ice favoring his right arm. He would eventually return toward the end of the first period and would go on play over 12 and a half minutes in a third line role.

More importantly, Brink cashed in on his first goal as a member of the Wild. Already up 2-0 in the third period, Danila Yurov forced a turnover in the offensive zone. Vladimir Tarasenko picked up the puck and after skating in on three Mammoth players, sent it over to Brink. He wasted no time firing the puck on net.

Brink set a career-high with his 13th goal of the season, scored back on Jan. 23. This goal broke a 13-game goalless drought where he had only registered three assists. The 24-year-old should reach 100 career points in the NHL this season, sitting five points away. With 17 games remaining, a new high in points may not be possible unless he goes on a hot streak. Sitting at 27, his best came in 2024-25 when he posted 41 points.

Brink was certainly a fan favorite with the Flyers. Despite his small stature, he played much bigger than he was. His tenacity and heart were evident during his time in Philadelphia. At one time, he formed one of the Flyers’ best and most consistent lines with Noah Cates and Tyson Foerster.

Brink won’t have to wait long to face the team that drafted him back in 2019. The Wild will welcome in the Flyers on Thursday. His return to Philadephia will have to wait until next year, though. He will be sure to get a welcomed reception. For now, he’ll try to help an already strong Minnesota team continue their run to the playoffs.