Flyers Forward Takes Aim at Penguins Defensemen in Fiery Comments

Alex Bump hasn't skipped a beat since joining the AHL Phantoms. In his first two games of the regular season, he scored a goal and two assists, then chipped in a two-goal effort in a 5-2 playoff win over the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins.

Alongside fellow young upstart stars Jett Luchanko, who contributed two assists and helped on one of Bump's goals, he made an impact in the first playoff game.

In addition to his game, Bump's attitude is receiving as much attention. He's vocal off the ice and cocky on it, never afraid to ruffle feathers or challenge opponents.

His blunt remarks are likely bulletin board material for the Penguins, but that's part of what fuels a growing rivalry, and Bump knows exactly what he's doing. He recently took a shot at all of the Penguins' defensemen following his team's Game 1 win.

This sort of swagger has not been in evidence for a while among the Flyers. Most often, an individual young player will believe in himself but at times falter on the ice.

This blend of skill and confidence may prove to be precisely what the franchise requires as they attempt to fashion a winning future.

Naturally, words themselves won't send Bump to the NHL. But his confidence in himself and being able to back it up sets the tone. Next, he and the Phantoms will attempt to put away the series Friday night and send the Penguins packing.