Trio of Flyers rookies make strong impression in first outing

There aren’t many spots open on the Flyers roster. But that isn’t going to stop the battle that will ensue during the rest of rookie camp and training camp.

The rookies are in the midst of making their impressions first. With one day of practice and one exciting overtime win, there are a few days left before the battles head to main camp.

While the battle is open to anyone and everyone, there are a few players who will have the spotlight on them the brightest.

Alex Bump

Bump is the favorite to win an opening-night roster spot. He exudes confidence, and rightfully so. While he didn’t get on the scoresheet in the first game on Friday night, he was still able to make an impression every time he stepped on the ice.

A part of the top line with Samu Tuomaala and Jack Nesbitt, it seemed as if the puck was in the offensive zone every time Bump was on the ice. He was able to dictate play more often than not. A look at the stat sheet won’t tell the impact that Bump had on the game.

He showed off nice footwork, a physical edge to set up a play, and a creativity to get the puck through to the net. While he didn’t score on this play, it was just one example of why Bump has been one to watch.

It helps that he feels prepared for the situation he’s in, meaning there isn’t a ton of pressure. But Bump has always had that confidence in himself and why he’s continued to play with a chip on his shoulder, reminding everyone that they shouldn’t have passed on him in the draft.

Nikita Grebenkin

Off the ice, Grebenkin has become a fan-favorite wherever he goes. His personality is infectious and there’s always a smile on his face. His viral media clips are a plenty.

But when he’s on the ice, the switch flips. He plays a high-energy brand of hockey and isn’t afraid to get in the middle of things. Posting up net front and having the ability to stay there is an impressive part of Grebenkin’s game. It allows him to create chaos and chances in front for himself and his teammates.

It helps that he can show off a booming shot, one that was on full display with his overtime winner on Friday. Karsen Dorwart carried the puck up the ice, opening up space for himself and Grebenkin as he weaved in through the offensive zone.

All Grebenkin had to do was sneak into an open lane, take a few strides, and rip one past the Rangers’ goaltender.

Grebenkin may not have been the highlight of the Scott Laughton trade, but he could sneak onto the Flyers’ roster. At the least, he should make the battle an interesting one and could find himself as one of the finalists for a roster spot. There’s a long way to go, but his first few days have made an impression.

Denver Barkey

Barkey is a long-shot to make the Flyers as he makes his professional debut. His small frame has many questioning whether he would be able to make an impact at the NHL level. It’s something Barkey has dealt with his entire life.

Described as playing like “a dog on a bone,” Barkey is often able to make up for his size with his motor and grit. He’s not afraid to take on those board battles, actively attacking the play and coming out as the victor more often than not.

That alone was on display on Friday night. Barkey showed that he is able to work those hard battles and not let his size dictate the outcome. He was taking on players bigger and stronger than himself. And he was regularly winning those battles.

His scoring is an obvious part of his game. His junior stats tell the story on that. But still, it doesn’t hurt to show that off as well. It wasn’t just this absolute rip either. Barkey’s vision was on full display throughout the night.

He created chances for himself and his linemates, keeping his head up and his eyes open for the next play. That is an important part of his game and something he needed, and will continue to need, to thrive at the next level.

Is he still likely ticketed for the AHL? It’s almost a guarantee. The amount of players ahead of him in experience makes his climb a tough one. But his first impression was a strong one, showing that maybe he should be an option.