The Flyers are recalling Defenseman Oliver Bonk (along with Hunter McDonald) from their AHL affiliate, the Lehigh Valley Phantoms. This was announced yesterday, with Flyers Assistant Coach Todd Reirden confirming that Bonk and McDonald will be recalled and join the team for practice starting tomorrow (February 18).
This move provides extra bodies during the Olympic break, as players like Travis Sanheim and Rasmus Ristolainen are away with their national teams. Reirden noted it’s a chance to evaluate Bonk’s progress, while McDonald has had prior recall experience.
“We will have a couple of extra bodies tomorrow. This gives us a shot to see where Bonk is at, we know where McDonald is at (Prior recall),” Flyers’ Assistant Coach Todd Reirden said yesterday.
Bonk, the Flyers’ first-round pick (22nd overall) in the 2023 NHL Draft, has been developing in the AHL after missing significant time earlier this season due to injury (he was activated from IR in early December 2025 and assigned to the Phantoms). He has limited pro experience so far (22 games with modest point production), but he’s viewed as a high-upside, mobile right-shot defenseman with potential for a top-four NHL role eventually.
This appears to be a developmental/practice-focused recall rather than an immediate NHL game activation—both prospects are still awaiting their NHL debuts. Goaltender Carson Bjarnason was also recalled for similar reasons.
The Flyers are getting healthier overall among prospects, with Bonk now back in the mix alongside others returning from injuries. This could position Bonk for a potential look down the stretch if injuries or performance needs arise on the blue line.
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