Flyers activate three from COVID protocol

The Philadelphia Flyers got a huge boost ahead of Thursday’s game against Boston, as Philly Hockey Now’s Sam Carchidi reports that defensemen Ivan Provorov and Justin Braun and forward Travis Konecny came off the NHL’s COVID-19 protocol Wednesday.

While Philadelphia is happy to get three important players back into the lineup, it’s especially crucial for Thursday’s game. It’s the second night of a back-to-back series for the Bruins, but goalie Tuukka Rask is expected to make his season debut.

Provorov leads all Flyers in ice time per game (24:26) and leads Flyers defensemen in points (13), returning to stabilize a blue-line that’s suffered all season. Braun’s return also shouldn’t be overlooked – he’s likely the best defensive defenseman the Flyers have. He’ll likely return on a pairing with young Cam York.

Konecny is one of the forwards that the Flyers would like to see some more production out of. After being one of the team’s best point producers over the past few years, he has just five goals and 14 assists in 33 games. He’s hoping for a hot streak after his return.