VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA - JUNE 22: Bobby Brink poses after being selected 34th overall by the Philadelphia Flyers during the 2019 NHL Draft at Rogers Arena on June 22, 2019 in Vancouver, Canada. (Photo by Kevin Light/Getty Images)
Photo Credit: Kevin Light/Getty Images
The Flyers loaned Bobby Brink back to Lehigh a few weeks ago, and he hasn’t looked back since. Brink has been spectacular, as one could have expected for the Lehigh Valley Phantoms. He has three goals in the last two games played with the Phantoms (Both losses), proving once again he’s a goal scorer. Brink hit the rookie wall with the big club, and has to learn how to bounce back. This was one way to do it, and maybe he could see a recall to the big club shortly after they return from the NHL All-Star game.
Lycksell continues to be the yo-yo, as he keeps getting recalled and scratched. Lycksell, however, is having a stellar AHL season as he potted his 16th goal of the season shortly before his recall. He also chipped in 12 assists for 28 points in 33 games played for the Lehigh Valley Phantoms.
This move made sense for Brink
As John Tortorella noted over a week ago, they we’re going to be faced with some tough decisions moving forward, this was one of them. As he stated, Tortorella does not like benching any player, especially the youth, but he really had no other choice in this matter. This move made too much sense for the organization moving forward, and most of all Brink. He needs to play, and benching him just hindered his development and confidence. At least he is playing now for the Phantoms, and restoring his lost confidence.
As previously noted, Brink hit the rookie wall, and this happens to most prospects. Some are able to come out of it sooner than other prospects, this is just part of the growing process.
His last point with the Flyers was on December 31, 2023, which was a goal scored. Since then he played in seven games, and was a healthy scratch for six games. He needs to play…period so this move makes sense for his development.
Do not worry Flyers fans, Brink still had top 6 upside, he just needs to figure a few things out. One cannot forget this is a rebuild season, so development of the youth is critical.
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