Quick Hits: June 24, 2020
1) There was a wonderful sight at the Skate Zone in Voorhees on Tuesday: Flyers left wing Oskar Lindblom took part in a Phase 2 workout with teammates. Although he is not yet finished with his chemotherapy treatments for Ewing Sarcoma and will not be ready to play at any point of Phase 4 of the NHL return-to-play plan, it was a huge step for Lindblom both mentally and physically. With approval from both his oncologists and Flyers team doctors, he skated for nearly 40 minutes.
In a statement, Flyers general manager Chuck Fletcher said, “It was great to see him out there. He looked really good on the ice, his hands are still there. It is remarkable to think that with all the treatments that he has had he was able to go out there today and still show the skill and still have the stamina to skate for about 35-40 minutes. It’s a great sign for him and very exciting to think that with all going well in the future he’s going to return to play for us. Obviously, Phase 2 is voluntary and every player and staff member must follow very strict guidelines and rules. Our practice facility is a very safe environment, safer than most places.…
A full article is forthcoming today on the Flyers' official website.
2) Today's edition of Flyers Daily on the Flyers Broadcast Network is a must-listen episode. Host Jason Myrtetus discusses Oskar Lindblom's return to the in Voorhees with audio of his post-workout comments to Zack Hill. There is also a talk with Carter Hart about his outlook on Phases 3 an 4 of the return-to-play plan. Last but certainly not least in an in-depth conversation with Bob Clarke.
Speaking of Clarke, I found on YouTube a cool seven-minute long video feature on Clarke that originally aired during intermission of a 1980 HNIC broadcast of a Flyers vs. North Stars Stanley Cup semifinal playoff game. There is also a Coach's Corner segment on faceoff techniques (a straightforward segment filmed in the period before Don Cherry started wearing outlandish suits).
4) June 24 Alum birthday: Michael Del Zotto turns 30.