The Flyers are taking a break from the ice after an intense training camp and preseason, with players and coaches engaging in team-bonding activities.
Following this break, they will have two more practices before their regular-season opener in Columbus, Ohio. Coach John Tortorella sees this break as well-timed, considering the players’ rigorous training and increased meetings during camp.
Team bonding will involve separate activities for players and coaches, as Tortorella believes that sometimes, coaches can interfere with the natural team bonding process. He also suggests that the best team bonding often occurs when players and coaches have a chance to get away from each other.
Wade Allison, who was placed on waivers, will join the AHL affiliate Lehigh Valley. This decision surprised some, but Tortorella explained that other players performed better.
Joel Farabee, Allison’s teammate and roommate, expressed his disappointment but also emphasized the positives, such as Allison having the opportunity to play more minutes for Lehigh Valley. Farabee praised Allison’s skills and willingness to contribute to the team.
Bobby Brink appears likely to be in the Flyers’ season-opening lineup, thanks to his standout performance in camp and preseason. He has been practicing alongside Sean Couturier and Joel Farabee. Tortorella sees Brink as an offensive talent with excellent vision on the ice.
The Flyers are considering keeping both Brink and Tyson Foerster on the roster and rotating them to ensure their prospects get playing time. Brink is 22 years old, and Foerster is 21.
Carter Hart missed practice due to illness, leaving Samuel Ersson as the backup goalie, and Felix Sandstrom as the third option. Sandstrom is expected to be sent to the Phantoms when waivers allow, potentially finalizing the Flyers’ roster with 13 forwards, eight defensemen, and two goalies.
Rasmus Ristolainen returned to practice after missing previous sessions due to an undisclosed injury. Coach Tortorella confirmed that Ristolainen looked good during the practice.
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