It appeared as though Artem Anisimov had the inside track for a roster spot with the Philadelphia Flyers as training camp progressed, but the veteran forward suffered a broken foot while blocking a shot and ultimately didn’t earn a contract. Now, after recovering, Anisimov will try again. The Lehigh Valley Phantoms have signed him to an AHL professional tryout to see what he can do.
Now 34, Anisimov spent last season playing in the KHL after a long NHL career. In 27 games with Lokomotiv, he racked up 19 points, but decided he still had more to give on the North American rink. A history with John Tortorella and tons of experience made him a good bet to earn a deal before the injury and he’ll now get a chance to ramp up to NHL speed in the minor leagues. Once there, the Flyers will have to make a decision on whether they want to sign him to a contract or use other internal options to fill out the lineup.
Given how many injuries the team is dealing with, it seems a good bet that Anisimov will succeed in his return. The team moved Wade Allison to injured reserve with an oblique muscle strain and hip pointer, telling reporters including Giana Han of the Philadelphia Inquirer that he’ll miss three weeks. He joins Sean Couturier, James van Riemsdyk, Ryan Ellis, Bobby Brink, and Patrick Brown on injured reserve (though the latter is on a conditioning stint and nearing a return).
If Anisimov does earn a deal, he’ll have a chance to reach the 800-game mark in the NHL, along with some other milestones. He currently sits at 180 goals, and 196 assists for 376 points in 771 career games.
More must-reads: