Two Flyers Rookies Are Making Waves on the Ice
- Bobby Brink is seventh on the Flyers in goals and points, while Tyson Foerster is sixth in goals and ninth in points.
- Foerster has come on as of late, recording four points in his last five games.
By Scott Cole
Don’t look now, but the Flyers are one of the hottest teams in the NHL. One of the reasons that they are playing well is that the vets, Travis Konency, Cam Atkinson, and Sean Couturier, have been healthy and playing very well. However, you can't play well without a supporting cast.
The Flyers have been pushing forward a youth movement since last year. During the 2022-23 season, we saw the rise of Owen Tippett and witnessed a breakout performance from Joel Farabee. So far this season, both have been active contributors. They aren't the only young players putting up big numbers this season.
If you look up rookie stats, it wouldn't surprise you to find Connor Bedard at the top of the list. The young phenom leads all rookies with 12 goals and 24 points and is tied for the lead with 12 assists. Barring an injury, he will be the NHL's rookie of the year this season.
However, take a peek just a little further down the list. Tied for fifth on that list with five goals is Philly's own Tyson Foerster. Behind him, Bobby Brink is tied for sixth. Brink is tied for fourth with nine assists, while Foerster is just a step behind with six assists and tied for seventh. Overall, Brink is tied for fifth in points (13), while Foerster is tied for seventh.
Brink and Foerster have made an impact this season. Brink had been turning heads during the summer development camps. During training camp, he impressed John Tortorella with his work ethic and doggedness. He was a pleasant surprise, being one of the more consistent Flyers during camp. Considering he missed the entire season the year before due to a hip injury, he's come a long way.
On the other hand, Foerster had to fight his way onto the roster. He was one of the last men to make the team during the final round of cuts. He flashed a speed others didn't possess, even if his other skills were raw. His energy on the ice turned a lot of heads.
Brink and Foerster have been playing on the top lines with Flyers' vets. They're learning how to play hard alongside some of the league's best teachers. They've been in the top ten in stats on most of the team's offensive categories. Brink has been more streaky this season, but Foerster has been strong lately. He's had seven points in his last six games.
If these two players continue to grow and develop at this pace, the Flyers will have a bright future. It becomes brighter when you consider that Matvei Michkov, Cutter Gauthier, and others are waiting to make their mark on the NHL.