Photo: Rob Windfelder | Flyers Nitty Gritty
The Flyers’ recent upturn has been fueled by a youth infusion of call-ups and young contributors, especially amid injuries to veterans.
After an 0-6-3 start in the 2026-27 season, the Flyers have now won three straight games. This included a 3-1 road win over the Buffalo Sabres on October 22, in which 22-year-old forward Cole Knuble scored his first two NHL goals. Flyers’ Head Coach Rick Tocchet highlighted the energy from recent call-ups and young players such as Knuble, defenseman Oliver Bonk (who added assists), Jacob Gaucher, and others.
Injuries to regulars (including Travis Konecny, Cam York, and Rasmus Ristolainen) forced the team to lean on youth from the Lehigh Valley Phantoms and existing young talent. Tocchet noted the infectious energy: the young players “love coming to the rink” and have helped the team play closer to its identity. Other contributors in the turnaround include Matvei Michkov, Porter Martone, Denver Barkey, Alex Bump, and Goaltender Dan Vladar (who rebounded strongly after an early rough outing).
Similar themes appeared earlier in 2026 (e.g., Phantoms infusions of collegiate draftees and players like David Jiricek, plus youth-driven playoff pushes), but the current story centers on the early-season NHL roster bounce-back.
The kids’ production and attitude have lifted locker-room energy and results after a difficult start.
Check out our Flyers Nitty Gritty Store
Cool Matvei Michkov merchandise
About Author
