The Philadelphia Flyers forced overtime late in the 3rd period. But, lost in overtime, 3-2, to the New Jersey Devils Saturday night at the Wells Fargo Center.
When training camp started, one camp battle that would be highlighted on day 1 was the open defense spot. A spot that used to belong to Ivan Provorov, who was traded to Columbus in the offseason.
After the first week of camp, Egor Zamula – who many penciled into the spot to start camp – was the clear favorite to earn the spot.
However, Emil Andrae has slowly been gaining on Zamula over the past week and was rewarded with an opportunity tonight. That opportunity was a chance to play with Rasmus Ristolainen, who will be the Flyers opening night second pair right hand defenseman.
Against one of the best teams in the Metropolitan Division, the New Jersey Devils, the pair – Andrae & Ristolainen – held there own.
Andrae’s opportunity also comes in the wake of the uncertainty surrounding Cam York and his injury status. Which, could open the door for both Andrae and Egor Zamula to make the roster.
Rasmus Ristolainen, Sean Walker, and Travis Sanheim seem to be the starting three on the right side as training camp hits week three. But, with York’s status unknown and the one spot still open on the left side, Andrae put on a good showing again tonight.
Cam Atkinson Returns
Sean Couturier made his long awaited return on Wednesday after missing all of last season with a back injury. Tonight, Cam Atkinson made his long awaited return.
Atkinson made his first appearance in a game since April 10, 2022.
After starting on a line with Tanner Laczynski & Samu Tuomaala, Aktinson moved to the top line in the 3rd period. Playing the final 20-minutes on a line with Sean Couturier and Travis Konecny.
In his return, Atkinson played 20:35.
Bobby Brink Making A Statement
Last night in Boston, Bobby Brink was the star of the show for the Flyers. Scoring a goal and adding an assist in regulation before scoring a filthy goal in the shootout.
Tonight, Brink was the lone Flyers player who got the call in the back to back. A good sign that the Flyers are liking what they are seeing from Brink.
In the 1st period, Brink worked a give & go to perfection with Wade Allison. Who opened the scoring for the Flyers.
Postgame, Flyers Asst Coach Rocky Thompson admitted that Brink tired a bit in the 2nd period. But, was impressed with his fight back and push in the 3rd period in a back to back.
More Cuts On The Horizon?
Before the game, the Flyers PR staff alerted the media that tomorrow’s practice had been cancelled. Normally, in the preseason, a sign that cuts are coming.
Currently, the Flyers sit at 40 players.
NEXT GAME: Monday October 2nd, Boston Bruins, Philadelphia PA
