The Lehigh Valley Phantoms, the American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate of the Philadelphia Flyers, are off to a strong start this season, holding a 9-4-2 record. A significant factor in their success is the burgeoning chemistry between two rookie linemates, Denver Barkey and Alex Bump. Head coach John Snowden has increasingly relied on these first-year professionals, and their recent performances demonstrate why.
Over the Phantoms' last five games, Barkey and Bump have combined for an impressive 15 points, with six goals and nine assists. As of November 19, 2025, Bump is tied for fourth in rookie point-scoring with 13 points, while Barkey is tied for tenth with 11 points.
Denver Barkey, a Flyers' third-round pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, is a 20-year-old winger known for his high motor, deceptive edgework, and playmaking abilities. After a slow start adjusting to the AHL, Barkey has found his stride, contributing significantly to the Phantoms' offense. Since being put on a line, Barkey has impressed. Despite his smaller stature at 5'10" and 171 lbs, he consistently wins puck battles and skillfully finds open teammates. Drafted in the third round back in 2023, Barkey’s work ethic and skill have translated well to the professional level.
Alex Bump, a fifth-round pick in the 2022 NHL Draft, is also making an immediate impact with the Phantoms. Through 15 games, he has tallied 4 goals and 13 points, while maintaining a +5 rating. Bump contributes on both the power play and penalty kill, showcasing his versatility. Bump excels in the neutral zone, consistently creating plays for his teammates and generating scoring opportunities off the rush. Bump's transition to the professional level has been seamless.
The Phantoms' recent game against the Springfield Thunderbirds highlighted the dynamic play of Bump and Barkey. The top line of Bump, Lane Pederson, and Barkey contributed three goals, showcasing their ability to generate offense.
Both Bump and Barkey were standouts at the junior and collegiate levels before turning pro. Barkey captained the OHL's London Knights to a Memorial Cup title, recording 82 points in 50 regular-season games and 27 points in 15 playoff games. Bump earned First Team All-American honors and led the Western Michigan Broncos to their first-ever Frozen Four appearance.
Their strong performance has not gone unnoticed, and both players are considered potential call-ups for the Flyers. Bump was one of the final cuts in training camp and has been determined to prove he belongs in the NHL. Barkey's scoring touch has also translated well to the professional game, making him a promising prospect for the Flyers.
While Oliver Bonk, the Flyers’ first-round pick in 2023, is also a promising prospect, his progress has been hampered by an upper-body injury sustained during training camp. Bonk, known for his strong two-way play, is expected to be a top-four defenseman for the Flyers in the future.
As the season progresses, the development of Barkey and Bump will be closely watched by Flyers fans and management alike. Their elite chemistry and impressive performance with the Phantoms suggest that they are on the path to making a significant impact in the NHL.
