© 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 anticipated that Michkov (5-foot-10, 172 pounds) would not be available until the 2026-27 season due to his Kontinental Hockey League contract. However, following the termination of the final two seasons of his contract and his signing of a three-year, entry-level contract on July 1, they are pleased to bring the 19-year-old on board in a top-six role this season.

Michkov led the KHL in points among players under 20, however, his play away from the puck has also caught the attention of Philadelphia.

“His hands have an electric quality and his mentality is offensive,” said Riley Armstrong, Flyers’ director of player development. “Over the past year, I’ve been emphasizing to him the importance of understanding both aspects of the game while playing in the NHL, especially under coach John Tortorella. I’ve even presented Danny [Briere, general manager] with video clips showing him blocking shots and backchecking intensely. My aim was to inculcate in him that to be an impactful player here, he needs to cover the full length of the field in North America and the NHL, effectively becoming a well-rounded player. I’ve already seen signs of him embracing this during his time there and his game reflecting it.”

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

Besides the stats, the 19-year-old (6-2, 180) has notably displayed exceptional professionalism both on and off the ice.

Armstrong expressed his admiration for the player’s skills and self-awareness. He said, “His demeanor in the locker room and his performance on the ice make it seem like he’s already played professional hockey. He never jeopardized a teammate while breaking a puck out throughout the year. I firmly believe that he understands his role as a player. He’s highly intelligent, he effectively covers for his teammates, he breaks pucks out efficiently, and his offensive opportunity is a just reward for his efforts.”

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 strengthen and maintain a similar level of impact for this season.

Armstrong said, “As he matures and develops a bit more, he will gain manly strength. When that happens, I believe you will see him at a different level. It might take two or three years, but once he acquires it, I think he will become a highly skilled 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. His skating is the pinnacle of his game. The next phase for him is to elevate the rest of his skills to match this level.

Armstrong said, “I believe he will become a strong player once he fully develops. As his other skills align with his skating, his mental game, and his hand coordination, and as he begins to understand the game on a deeper level, I expect his performance will significantly improve. I’m projecting this to happen within the next 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 been astonished by the rapid development of the 20-year-old both on and off the ice. Armstrong even mentioned that it wouldn’t be surprising if Bump starts playing NHL games before the season concludes.

Armstrong stated, “When you observe this kid, it’s clear he exudes confidence whenever he has the puck. During the development camp, one could see his ability to make plays even when he was under pressure. He demonstrates exceptional poise in the rink’s center and always plays within the dots. He’s not a player who stays on the periphery, and his size (6-0, 195) is notable. Moreover, his aggressive playing style keeps you on edge. There are aspects of his skating that we could improve, which will elevate his game further. I’m genuinely enthused about him.”

Projected NHL arrival: Next season