Bobby Brink's time in Philadelphia has been cut short. The rookie winger made the team out of camp, got off to a slow start, and then heated up. However, the last few weeks haven't been so kind to him. He hasn't scored a point since just after Christmas. He's been a healthy scratch for a few games recently. Now, he's been sent back to the AHL to get back on track. With luck, he probably won't be gone long. In his place, the Flyers have recalled forward Olle Lycksell.
Lycksell has been one of those guys who keeps getting recalled, but not a lot has happened yet. Part of that has been his playing time. He has appeared in one game this season and played just six minutes. Last year, he was in eight games and averaged a little over ten minutes a game. That's not a lot of time to get to know a young player.
However, he's been a stud at the AHL level. Last year, he scored 14 goals with a team-leading 31 assists. His 45 points were second only to Tyson Foerster. This season, he's even hotter. In 33 games, he's scored 16 times with a dozen assists. He leads the Phantoms in goals and is third overall in points. That's not bad for a sixth-round pick.
While the Flyers 2017 top pick didn't pan out, fifth-round pick Noah Cates has been a huge surprise. Likewise, Lycksell has a chance to prove his worth. If he can bring his scoring touch to the NHL, the Flyers could add another dangerous weapon to their lineup.
In the past, Lycksell hasn't impressed John Tortorella. This is his opportunity to show he belongs. Playing on the third line with a veteran like Cam Atkinson and a rising star in Morgan Frost should help boost his confidence. Hopefully, he can make the most of his time in Philly. Maybe this time, he'll be here to stay.