Despite his size, Philadelphia Flyers prospect Denver Barkey has all the tools to become a successful NHLer.
It’s official! Denver Barkey, the Flyers’ third-round 95th overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, has signed his entry-level contract beginning in the 2024-25 season.
Barkey, 18, has been playing his third season in the OHL with the London Knights alongside fellow Flyers prospect Oliver Bonk, and both players have been excellent all season.
So far, Barkey has recorded 87 points in 56 games (31 goals, 56 assists), including five powerplay and seven shorthanded goals, leading the Knights in goals, assists, and points. He’s also tied for first in the OHL in shorthanded goals and ranks third in assists and points. According to NHL.com, this season marks career highs for the Newmarket, Ontario native in goals, assists, points, shots on goal, shorthanded goals, and plus/minus rating.
The main drawback in Barkey’s game is his size, standing at 5-foot-9 and 154 pounds. Some concern has been voiced over Barkey’s size, but Barkey’s playing style boasts speed, quick hands, a seemingly endless supply of energy, and a fearlessness that isn’t unlike that of Travis Konecny’s game. Simply put, it doesn’t look like his slighter stature will cause too many significant issues for him.
On top of his on-ice abilities, he has a boisterous personality that will fit in perfectly with the Flyers’ colorful locker room.
Although Flyers fans won’t be able to see Barkey until at least next season, they’ll still be able to enjoy him for the remainder of the OHL season, where the Knights sit at the top of the Midwest Division and have secured a playoff spot.