Good News, Bad News: Tippett, Konecny Nearing Return for Flyers, But McDonald Loses His Spot

Philadelphia Flyers forwards Owen Tippett and Travis Konecny are nearing their return to the lineup, potentially playing Sunday against the Utah Mammoth. Head coach Rick Tocchet noted both players feel good as they trend toward activation. During Saturday's practice, Tippett and Konecny skated with the top-six forward lines and joined the second power-play unit.

To make room on the active roster for the returning forwards, defenseman Hunter McDonald and forward Jacob Gaucher were loaned to the Lehigh Valley Phantoms. Writer William James argues that demoting the 24-year-old McDonald is the wrong move, praising his physicality and defensive contributions during his recent five-game NHL stint.