One thing you can’t predict in sports is injuries. It’s something that just comes natural with the game.
For the Philadelphia Flyers, that could be said for Oliver Bonk.
The first-year pro has been out since rookie camp with an upper body injury. Originally marked as “day-to-day”, the injury has now kept him out for the first two months of the season.
According to a source, Bonk has been dealing with a back issue that has just taken time to heal.
During the opening day of rookie camp, a collision between Bonk and Ty Murchison during a 2-on-2 drill could be the root of where the injury started.
During 2v2 corner drills yesterday, Oliver Bonk and Ty Murchison collided right by the dot as Murchison was exiting from the previous rotation. Bonk was not pleased and slashed him on the back of the legs. Remember seeing Bonk on one knee stretching his back after. #LetsGoFlyers https://t.co/6EuuZwZatx
— Brandon J. Sommermann (@B_Sommermann) September 12, 2025
Now, almost two months later, Bonk is nearing his return and his pro debut.
For the past week, the 20-year-old right shot defenseman has been ramping up his recovery here in Philadelphia. He has been practicing with the Flyers in a red non-contact jersey under the close watch of head athletic trainer Tommy Alva.
Bonk has been a constant attendee to Flyers home games during his recovery. While not on the ice, he has been able to learn from afar with many of the Flyers senior management by his side.
Last night, Bonk and Flyers GM Danny Briere were seen talking before the game in the press area. After the talk, Bonk left with a huge smile on his face.
It is believed that the next step for Bonk will come in the next week or so when he is sent to the Lehigh Valley Phantoms.
