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VOORHEES, N.J. — Oliver Bonk hasn’t played a game of professional hockey yet, a fact the Philadelphia Flyers player development staff has to remind itself of.

Maximizing his skill set, the 19-year-old defenseman, who was selected as the No. 22 pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, has left a lasting impression on the Flyers staff due to his exceptional hockey IQ.

During Flyers development camp earlier this month, Bonk expressed, “In my opinion, intellect and utilizing your IQ are the most significant aspects of my game. It’s not about being the biggest, the fastest, or the strongest. Instead, I believe in outsmarting opponents, securing better positioning, and excelling in various aspects. Therefore, I consider myself an intelligent and strategic defenseman who contributes both offensively and defensively.”

Last season, Bonk’s approach was exceptional as he ranked fifth among Ontario Hockey League defensemen with 67 points (24 goals, 43 assists) and boasted a plus-28 rating in 60 games with London. Additionally, he tied for fifth place among all OHL players with 15 power-play goals.

The Flyers are in definite need of assistance when it comes to their man advantage, as they have ranked last in the NHL for power-play percentage in the previous two seasons (15.6% in 2022-23; 12.2% in the last season).

According to Riley Armstrong, the Flyers director of player development, Bonk appears to have already played professional hockey based on his demeanor both in the locker room and on the ice. Armstrong believes Bonk has a clear understanding of his abilities as a player. He demonstrates intelligence, effectively supports his teammates, efficiently moves the puck, and as a result, he is frequently presented with offensive chances.

He gained the nickname “Bumper Bonk” due to his exceptional performance on London’s power play, which was the top-ranked in the OHL last season with a success rate of 32.6 percent. Many of his offensive opportunities were created during these power play situations.

Playing in that position was not customary for a defenseman, but it gave Bonk the opportunity to cultivate his offensive skills in a unique manner.

He explained, “It offers a unique perspective where you’re not the one shooting the puck, but rather the one attempting to tip it and collect rebounds. It provides an interesting alternative view of the game.”

Bonk’s remarkable trait lies in his advanced comprehension of the strengths in his game and their potential translation to the professional level.

Armstrong expressed his belief that he considers him to be among the select few who truly comprehend the situation. According to Armstrong, many individuals, whether they held the position of first-line center in the OHL or played college hockey, enter the professional realm with a persistent desire to retain their previous roles. However, once they grasp the importance of adapting their position within the team’s lineup, they experience significant progress. Armstrong commends him for already possessing this understanding, stating that he is significantly ahead in terms of his development.

This could potentially grant Bonk an upper hand in reaching the NHL earlier than anticipated. According to Flyers general manager Daniel Briere, the current intention is for Bonk to continue his development by returning to London for another season.

Bonk intends to alter those plans.

“You must come in with the belief that you will make the team,” he stated. “It is likely that I will be sent back to junior, but they haven’t confirmed whether I’m going back or staying here. I believe you simply need to convince yourself that you want to stay here.”