© Philadelphia Flyers

NHL.com is providing in-depth roster, prospect and fantasy analysis for each of its 32 teams from Aug. 1-Sept. 1. Today, the top five prospects for the Philadelphia Flyers, according to NHL.com.

1. Matvei Michkov, F

How acquired: Selected with No. 7 pick in 2023 NHL Draft
2023-24 season: Sochi (KHL): 47 GP, 19-22-41

The Flyers initially thought that Michkov (5-foot-10, 172 pounds) wouldn’t be available until the 2026-27 season due to his Kontinental Hockey League contract. However, after the termination of the final two seasons of the contract, followed by Michkov signing a three-year, entry-level contract on July 1, the team is thrilled to bring the 19-year-old on board in a top-six role this season.

Michkov led the KHL in points for players under 20, but his play without the puck has also caught Philadelphia’s attention.

“His hands are electrifying and he has an aggressive approach to the game,” stated Flyers’ Player Development Director, Riley Armstrong. “One thing I’ve been emphasizing to him over the past year is the importance of understanding the defensive side of the game when playing in the NHL and under ‘Torts’ [Coach John Tortorella]. Throughout the season, I’ve shown clips to Danny [Briere, General Manager] of him blocking shots and backchecking fiercely. I’ve been trying to instill in him that if he wants to make a significant impact and play here, he must be willing to cover the entire rink, whether in North America or the NHL, to become a comprehensive player. I’ve already noticed him embracing this concept during his time overseas and playing in this manner.”

Projected NHL arrival: This season

2. Oliver Bonk, D

How acquired: Selected with No. 22 pick in 2023 NHL Draft
2023-24 season: London (OHL): 60 GP, 24-43-67

Aside from the statistics, the 19-year-old (6-2, 180) has notably demonstrated professionalism both on and off the ice.

Armstrong said, “His conduct in the locker room and on the ice gives the impression that he’s already been a professional hockey player. He never jeopardized a teammate throughout the year while breaking a puck out. I genuinely believe he understands his role as a player. He’s extremely intelligent, effectively covers for his teammates, breaks pucks out successfully, and his efforts are rewarded with offensive opportunities.”

Projected NHL arrival: Next season

3. Denver Barkey, F

How acquired: Selected with No. 95 pick in 2023 NHL Draft
2023-24 season: London (OHL): 64 GP, 35-67-102

After finishing tied for fourth in scoring in the Ontario Hockey League at the age of 19, Barkey (5-9, 155) has been challenged by the Flyers to gain strength and maintain a similar level of impact this season.

Armstrong stated, “With a bit more maturation and development, he will gain the strength of a man. I believe this will elevate him to a different level. It may take two or three years, but once he achieves it, I anticipate he’ll be an exceptional player.”

Projected NHL arrival: 2026-27

4. Jett Luchanko, F

How acquired: Selected with No. 13 pick in 2024 NHL Draft
2023-24 season: Guelph (OHL): 68 GP, 20-54-74

Luchanko, who just turned 18 on Wednesday, stands at 5’11” and weighs 180 pounds. His skating skills are the highlight of his game. However, he now needs to elevate the rest of his skills to match his skating prowess.

Armstrong said, “Once he matures and gains more strength, and when all aspects of his game, including his skating, intellect, and handling skills, reach the same level, he will begin to strategize the game on a higher level. If his skills progress at this rate, I foresee him becoming a formidable player, likely in about three years.”

Projected NHL arrival: 2026-27

5. Alex Bump, F

How acquired: Selected with No. 133 pick in 2022 NHL Draft
2023-24 season: Western Michigan University (NCAA): 38 GP, 14-22-36

The Flyers have expressed admiration for the rapid development of the 20-year-old, both on and off the ice. Armstrong even mentioned that it wouldn’t be a shock if Bump is participating in NHL games by the end of this season.

Armstrong said, “When you see a kid who exudes such confidence with the puck, it’s quite amazing. Observe him at the development camp, his ability to make plays even when under pressure is extraordinary. He carries the puck through the rink’s center with such poise. He constantly plays within the boundaries, he’s not an edge player by any means. Plus, he’s quite large at 6-0, 195… and he’s always on the offensive. I believe there are aspects of his skating we can improve, which will elevate his game even further. I’m genuinely enthusiastic about his potential.”

Projected NHL arrival: Next season