The Philadelphia Flyers announced their 23-man roster for opening night – a 10 p.m. puck drop against the Vancouver Canucks. The most extensive roster “surprise” was 18-year-old Jett Luchanko making the team.
Jett Luchanko makes the Flyers’ roster
Luchanko was drafted 13th overall this year after the Flyers moved back one spot in a trade with the Minnesota Wild. When speaking to Luchanko at the draft, he said he wanted to model his game around Flyers forward Travis Konecny. Jett was only 17 years old when drafted and didn’t expect even to be drafted as early as he was. Following the draft, when speaking with the Luchanko family in the Las Vegas Sphere’s parking lot, they shared their excitement but also were overwhelmed by the Flyers’ high interest in their son.
With slim chances of making the team out of camp, Luchanko worked extremely hard. He is a naturally speedy player, which is ironic with his name being “Jett.” He was a standout during both rookie camp and training camp, instantly fitting in with the older players on the team. His ability to pick up on drills and execute them efficiently made for a strong case that Luchanko was an NHL-ready player.
Head Coach John Tortorella shared throughout camp that he liked Luchanko’s game. He even stated that many discussions would be held with Flyers’ General Manager Danny Briere and President of Hockey Operations Keith Jones on Luchanko making the team. Undoubtedly, the bench boss would fight for the speedy forward, but Luchanko’s hard work seemed to playoff on its own.
Briere stated, “He has blown us away from day one.” Briere confirmed he was calling Jett Luchanko to tell him the good news. While there hasn’t been a decision made on the nine-game rookie tryout, one thing is for sure: Luchanko will record some NHL games.
Luchanko said, “It’s been my life goal since I can remember, and it was to make the NHL. First, I called my parents. All credit goes to them.” Now that Jett Luchanko has made the roster, he will be the youngest player in franchise history to skate for the orange and black this Friday. The only other player to make the team in this year’s draft is the San Jose Sharks first overall pick, Macklin Celebrini.
Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports
