Denver Barkey, the Flyers’ 20-year-old forward (drafted in 2023, third round), has been performing well since his NHL call-up in late December 2025. He made an impressive debut with assists, scored his first NHL goal against the Oilers on January 3, 2026, and has appeared in about 11 games this season with one goal, two assists, and solid underlying play despite his smaller frame (around 5’10, 172 lbs).
Here is a tweet from Philadelphia Inquirer’s Jackie Spiegel, starting that Barkey looks to be like a healthy scratch tonight:
- He’s been praised by coach Rick Tocchet for his fearlessness, compete level, and hockey smarts.
- Barkey will stick in the NHL lineup long-term or even force roster decisions, given his strong early showings and the Flyers’ need for depth amid injuries/other issues.
- Recent games (e.g., around early January) show him contributing, and discussions lean toward him earning more ice time rather than sitting.
This scratching is a bit head scratching, as he played well.
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Starter in Net
Dan Vladar will start tonight against the Buffalo Sabres.
Jamie Drysdale
Drysdale has been activated off IR, and will play tonight against Buffalo
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