Denver Barkey, a 20-year-old forward prospect drafted by the Philadelphia Flyers in the third round (95th overall) in 2023, is a highly skilled player with impressive junior hockey credentials. However, his chances of making the Flyers’ NHL roster for the 2025-26 season appear slim, though not impossible, based on his current development trajectory and the team’s roster dynamics.
Why Barkey Might Have a Shot
- Strong Junior Performance: Barkey has excelled with the OHL’s London Knights, captaining the team to a Memorial Cup championship in 2025. He posted 82 points (25 goals, 57 assists) in 50 regular-season games and 20 points (9 goals, 11 assists) in 10 playoff games, despite a high-ankle sprain. He also tied for the Memorial Cup points lead with seven points in four games, earning the Ed Chynoweth Trophy.
- Skill Set and Comparisons: Barkey’s high-energy, skilled, and pesky play style draws comparisons to Flyers’ star Travis Konecny. His speed, hockey IQ, and two-way play, including elite penalty-killing ability, make him a versatile prospect.
- Flyers’ Youth Movement: The Flyers are in a rebuild, with one of the NHL’s youngest lineups last season. Prospects like Alex Bump and Jett Luchanko are also pushing for spots, and a strong training camp could see Barkey leapfrog veterans.
- Development Camp Buzz: Barkey impressed at the Flyers’ 2025 Development Camp, showcasing puck control and playmaking. His confidence and versatility (ability to play Center or Wing) add to his appeal.
Challenges to Making the Roster
- Size and Physicality: At 5’10 and approximately 171 pounds. He’s been working to add strength, but Barkey knows strength is important.
- AHL Seasoning Needed: Most suggest Barkey is likely to start the 2025-26 season with the Lehigh Valley Phantoms in the AHL. He may need some AHL seasoning to round out his game, particularly in strength and explosiveness.
- Roster Competition: The Flyers’ forward group includes established players like Travis Konecny, Sean Couturier, and Owen Tippett, as well as young talents like Tyson Foerster, Bobby Brink, and Matvei Michkov. Rookies like Alex Bump may be ahead of Barkey in the pecking order.
- Recent Setbacks: Barkey missed part of training camp in 2024 due to mononucleosis. However, he’s used such setbacks/adversity as motivation.
While Barkey’s skill, work ethic, and junior success make him a promising prospect, the consensus is that he’s not quite ready for the NHL roster out of training camp. He’s probably more likely to start with the Phantoms to gain professional experience, with a potential call-up later in the season if he excels. However, a standout performance at training camp could give him an outside chance, especially if injuries or trades open spots, but the Flyers’ cautious approach with prospects suggests patience with his development.
With Rick Tocchet being a new Head Coach with the Flyers, anything is possible. Keep an eye on his training camp performance for any surprises.
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5’9″ 155? He’s 5’10” now and 179, try to stay somewhat current.
You’re absolutely right. I did not double check height and weight. I will definitely do it for now on.
Thanks for pointing that out
Jamey