With Egor Zamula going down the tunnel five minutes into the third period of last night's game against the Colorado Avalanche, on top of the existing injuries to Cam York, Jamie Drysdale, and Emil Andrae, depth on defense is becoming a pressing issue.
The Philadelphia Flyers may soon find themselves needing reinforcements on the blue line—again.
With Egor Zamula going down the tunnel five minutes into the third period of last night's game against the Colorado Avalanche, on top of the existing injuries to Cam York, Jamie Drysdale, and Emil Andrae, depth on defense is becoming a pressing issue.
Helge Grans recently earned a call-up and made a promising NHL debut, but the Flyers might need to look further into the AHL roster for additional support.
Fortunately, the Flyers' recent history of successful call-ups offers some hope. Players like Emil Andrae and Anthony Richard have seamlessly transitioned to the NHL, reflecting the strong developmental pipeline in Lehigh Valley.
Flyers head coach John Tortorella has said that he trusts the insight of the Phantoms coaches on which players they believe are ready for NHL minutes, and will undoubtedly be keeping a close ear to their recommendations as they re-evaluate their lineup options.
Adam Ginning: The Safe, Reliable Option
Although he didn't have the best camp this summer, Adam Ginning is perhaps the most NHL-ready option for a defensive call-up. At 6'4" and 205 pounds, the 2018 second-round pick offers size and physicality that could complement the Flyers' blue line. Known for his shot-blocking, penalty-killing, and strong defensive awareness, Ginning's game is built around simplicity and reliability.
Philadelphia Flyers defenseman prospect Adam Ginning (50).
Ginning has steadily improved his puck-handling skills since transitioning to North American hockey, making him less of a liability in high-pressure situations. While he won't contribute much offensively, his ability to anchor the forwards would be invaluable, especially against heavier, forechecking teams.
If Tortorella prioritizes stabilizing the defense, Ginning could be the ideal candidate. His no-nonsense style aligns with the Flyers' identity, and having some previous NHL experience with the team, Ginning would be a natural fit for the team's current needs.
Ben Gleason: The Offensive Catalyst
For a more dynamic option, Ben Gleason is a player to watch. Signed by the Flyers from the Edmonton Oilers in exchange for defenseman Ronnie Attard, the 26-year-old is an intriguing new addition to the Phantoms that could be getting a look with the Flyers sooner rather than later.
Gleason's ability to jump into the rush, quarterback a powerplay, and distribute the puck effectively would add an offensive spark to the Flyers' defense—something they've been sorely missing in the absence of York, Drysdale, and Andrae.
Although he's a bit undersized, his hockey IQ and skating ability allow him to thrive in transition. He's particularly adept at breaking out of the defensive zone, which could help alleviate some of the Flyers' struggles under pressure.
If Tortorella believes the team needs more offense from the blue line, Gleason could provide a much-needed boost. However, his defensive play is still a work in progress, which might limit his appeal in certain matchups.
Hunter McDonald: The Physical Force
Hunter McDonald represents a more unorthodox option. Another 6'4", 205 pound, McDonald is a bruiser, and while he's largely remained on the fringes of the Flyers squad, he's made an impression with his physicality and work ethic.
McDonald thrives in high-contact situations and isn't afraid to drop the gloves, making him a potential deterrent against teams that play a chippy, aggressive style. While he lacks the polish of players like Ginning or Gleason, McDonald's intensity and physical presence could inject energy into the lineup.
Philadelphia Flyers defenseman prospect Hunter McDonald (41) during rookie camp at the Flyers Training Center.
Calling up McDonald would be a gamble, as his inexperience might expose weaknesses at the NHL level. However, if the Flyers need to bring in a player who can set a tone physically, he could be a surprising choice.
The Developmental Pipeline: A Promising Trend
One of the most encouraging aspects of this season has been the seamless adaptation of Phantoms call-ups. Whether it's Andrae showcasing his exciting offensive instincts or Anthony Richard injecting speed and energy, the Flyers have clearly benefited from the developmental system in Lehigh Valley.
This speaks volumes about the collaboration between the Flyers' and Phantoms' coaching staffs. Tortorella's willingness to trust AHL coaches in identifying deserving players has allowed the Flyers to reward merit and ensure that call-ups are prepared for the NHL stage.
The Decision Ahead
Ultimately, the Flyers' choice will depend on the specific needs of their lineup. If they prioritize stability and defensive reliability, Adam Ginning could get the nod. If offensive contributions are needed, Ben Gleason's creativity might make him the better fit. And if physicality and grit become priorities, Hunter McDonald could emerge as a wildcard.
As the Flyers navigate injuries and test the depth of their organization, they'll continue to rely on a promising pipeline that has already delivered this season. With Tortorella's trust in the Phantoms' development process, whoever gets the call is likely to make an impact.
