The Philadelphia Flyers are approaching full strength for the first time since opening week, according to a report published October 31. Top forwards Owen Tippett and Travis Konecny participated in full practice on Saturday afternoon at the Flyers Training Center in Voorhees, N.J.
Tippett has been out since Oct. 15, while Konecny has been sidelined since Oct. 8. Despite practicing in full, both veterans remain on injured reserve for the time being. However, they are on track to return for Sunday evening's game against the visiting Utah Mammoth.
During Saturday's practice, Tippett skated on a line with Denver Barkey and Tyson Foerster. Konecny practiced alongside Trevor Zegras and Christian Dvorak. Head coach Rick Tocchet noted that while Tippett is trending toward a return, the team would know more after further treatment sessions.
Konecny has missed all but five games this season and is considered a vocal member of the leadership group. Tocchet said Konecny's pace in practice and his leadership during competitive drills are significant assets.
Other roster movements observed during Saturday's workflow included rookie forward Cole Knuble rotating in with Sean Couturier, Alex Bump, and Michael Bunting. Additionally, Hunter McDonald comprised an extra defense pair with David Jiricek.
The return of Tippett and Konecny is expected to impact roster decisions. Head coach Rick Tocchet stated that the team must manage roster spots and waivers, noting that players like Knuble, McDonald, Jiricek, and Acciari are expected to be healthy scratches for the Sunday matchup against the Mammoth.
Knuble, McDonald, Jiricek, and Acciari are expected to be healthy scratches for the Flyers' game against the Mammoth on Sunday.
