Oliver Bonk extended his point streak to eight games with a four point performance against Owen Sound on Sunday. More on what has made his offensive game so much more effective this season, and confidence since returning from the World Juniors.
Oliver Bonk extended his point streak to eight games with a four point performance against Owen Sound on Sunday. More on what has made his offensive game so much more effective this season, and confidence since returning from the World Juniors.
Oliver Bonk heard his name called at the 2023 NHL Draft much earlier than a lot of analysts thought — 22nd overall by the Philadelphia Flyers.
Bonk was highly touted last season because of his active and reliable defence. His defensive stick is also one of the best in junior hockey right now. Bonk's lack of offensive upside concerned some people, but the Flyers certainly couldn't pass up a minute-eating, top four defender that can play in virtually any situation.
The son of Radek Bonk still certainly projects as that, but he has added to his offensive potential this season — especially since returning from the World Juniors in Sweden.
Bonk had a strong performance at the tournament, until a funky bounce went off of his stick and into the net with eleven seconds left in the quarter final game. Though this event could have happened to any given player, it was clear that it hit Bonk hard after the fact.
This has seemed to spark a fire in him, as he has been unstoppable in every regard since returning to the London Knights.
Bonk has 20 points in his last eight games, and two 4-or-more point performances in January. His production has been off-the-charts for his past standards, and he has been commanding London's offence from the blue line.
Because Bonk's defensive game is so reliable, he has been able to expand on his offensive game and take more risks. He isn't afraid to play low in the attacking zone, and sneak into the slot. He's been scoring some goals from recognizing open space in front of the net, and jumping on loose pucks.
He has the ability to walk in from the blue line in such quick timing and get a shot off before the opposing defence is able to react.
This season, Bonk has been shooting more and he has been trusting himself with the puck more. His confidence offensively has gotten to a point where he is fearless when taking risks. He knows that he will be able to come back and defend the play if he does lose the puck.
The Philadelphia Flyers have not only found a lockdown top four defender with a phenomenal defensive stick, but they have found a player that can chip in offensively.
Bonk has taken a lot of strides this season, and I would only expect him to take more as the Knights near the playoffs.