While the Flyers are busy taking the NHL’s Metro Division by storm, their farm team is making a name for themselves in the AHL. There is no shortage of talent in the PPL Center, as the Phantoms strive for their own success.
Among the highest point scorers are Nicolas Aube-Kubel and Phil Varone. Aube-Kubel, right wing, currently has 15 goals, and 37 points overall. While Varone leads the team in with 57 points, and 17 goals thus far.
One of the biggest stars of the team, Danick Martel, has been scratched due to injury since Jan. 15. Martel has since had surgery to repair a broken jaw, and played in the game on Feb. 10. Martel scored two goals in his return, with a protective mask on his helmet.
Martel remains a pivotal player on the team having 19 goals, and 28 points overall.
While watching the Flyers, if a viewer spots someone they have never seen before, that player was probably called up from Lehigh. Numerous Phantoms have worn the Flyers emblem this season, including Oscar Lindblom, Danick Martel, Samuel Morin, Tyrell Goulbourne, and Alex Lyon.
Lyon has been in and out of the net for the Flyers throughout December 2017, and February 2018. During Lyon’s first visit, he did not see much playing time. But, his 2018 stint gave him a little more experience. After some tough luck in the Lyon’s first two tries, he got his first win with an outstanding effort against the Rangers on Feb. 11.
Another player, Dustin Tokarski, was traded from the Anaheim Ducks on Oct. 9, 2017 and has been the starting goalie in Lyon’s absence. Head Coach Scott Gordon had only good things to say about Tokarski in net saying, “I’m overall happy with Dustin’s play.” He added, “He’s completely different than Alex, who plays more traditionally and Dustin is more old school.” When Gordon was asked about Tokarski being NHL ready, he said, “He has experience on his side.”
When it comes to being “NHL ready”, everybody has a different opinion. Fans for the most part differ in opinions from the coaches, but the ones who know the game the most are probably the best to ask.
Nick LaPalombara, 25, is a veteran to the sport of hockey. He has loved the game since the age of five. He played on various teams from eighth grade to his senior year. LaPalombara has played every position besides goalie, and knows the ins and outs of the sport.
“The will to keep moving forward and not let the last shift affect how you play the rest of the game.” LaPalombara said. “If you make one bad play, it’ll stick with you but you can’t allow it to, because it will affect the way you play.” “Pure will and instinct helps a lot in the game.” LaPalombara explained when asked about the strength of players.
As you watch the Phantoms play, it looks as though they have followed LaPalombara’s advice. The Phantoms clawed their way to the number one spot in their division on Feb. 27, and will not cease fighting until they make their own mark with a Calder Championship win. If you’re interested in learning more about the Phantoms, please visit, http://www.