Denver Barkey by: Jesse Bell
As the 2023 NHL Entry Draft approached, many eyes were on the talented young prospects ready to make their mark in the world of professional hockey. Among them was Denver Barkey, a dynamic left wing born on April 27, 2005, in Newmarket, Ontario. At just 20 years old, Barkey has already displayed an impressive skill set that caught the attention of scouts and ultimately led to his selection by the Philadelphia Flyers in the third round, 95th overall.
Barkey’s journey in hockey began in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) with the London Knights, where he quickly emerged as a formidable force on the ice. Over the course of the 2021-22 season, he showcased his abilities by scoring 53 goals and making 78 assists for a total of 131 points. His impressive +6 plus/minus rating demonstrated not only his offensive talent but also his commitment to two-way play.
The following season, Barkey elevated his game even further. In 2022-23, he put up 61 goals and 22 assists for a staggering total of 79 points while maintaining a solid +18 rating. His performance helped solidify his reputation as one of the top talents in the OHL, leading to a strong playoff showing that further showcased his abilities under pressure.
The 2023-24 season proved to be a defining year for Barkey and the London Knights. He played a crucial role in leading the team to a championship, finishing the regular season with 64 games played, where he tallied 35 goals, 67 assists, and a remarkable +28 rating. His contributions were not limited to the regular season, as he continued to shine in the playoffs, amassing 16 goals and 27 points, further solidifying his status as a key player for the Knights.
As he transitions from junior hockey to the professional ranks, Barkey’s combination of skill, speed, and hockey IQ will be invaluable to the Philadelphia Flyers. Standing at 5'10" and weighing 171 pounds, he possesses the agility and finesse to navigate through defenses and create scoring opportunities. His left-handed shot gives him a strategic advantage, allowing him to find the back of the net from various angles.
With the Flyers in need of fresh talent and energy, Barkey's arrival is highly anticipated. Fans can look forward to seeing how his experience in the OHL translates to the NHL, as he aims to carve out a successful career and contribute to the Flyers' pursuit of championship glory.
As Denver Barkey steps into this new chapter, he carries with him the hopes and dreams of not just himself, but of a franchise eager to return to prominence. The hockey world will be watching closely as this young star begins to shine on the biggest stage.
Jesse Bell - Olde City Sports Network
Photo Credit - PUCKPREPS, NHL.COM, LONDON KNIGHTS X
