Flyers and NHL Thoughts

April 6, 2008 Flyers V Penguins

2008-04-06T21:38:00.003-04:00

Going into today's final game against the Pens the only thing the Flyers knew was that they were in the playoffs. The didn't know which seed and who they'd see in the 1st round. They still had a lot to play for as did the Pens who were still looking for the Eastern conference crown. I was lucky enough to have a ticket to the game and go down early in anticipation of a heated game just like last week's tilt.

The Wacovia Center was electric. I noticed during warmups, No #87. What was this about? Running scared? Resting for thr playoffs? A big disappointment for hockey fans, but not for the Flyers who were playing without injured Briere and resting Smith. Both teams played close throughout the game. The hitting was not a ferocious as I had hoped, but there was Upshall flying around out there. It wasn't until the end of the 2nd period when the scoreless tie was broken on a goal off a faceoff. The puck caromed off of Fleury and right to Upshall who buried it for his 14th goal. I certainly noticed from my seats that the refs and linesman give the Pens as sorts of leeway. They get the benefit of many calls, both penalties and icings that the Flyers don't seem to get. Is it because the hometown guys are more like the lunchpail gang and the Pens are more refined and like primadonnas? Who knows?

The game stayed 1-0 until the Pens pulled their goalie and Mike Knuble was able to score on an open net to make it 2-0. It had looked like Carter was going to get his 30th, but he totally flubbed the shot. Knuble was able to wrap the puck around and score on his 2nd shot.

Did the Penguins bring their A game? Maybe, maybe not. Did the Flyers play a great defensive game and get outstanding goaltending from Biron when needed? Absolutely.

Flyers end the season in 6th place and will open up the playoffs against the Capitals who are surging. The Flyers won the season series 2-1-1 and I heard that the Flyers are already favored, but I worry about this matchup. Ovechkin is a monster, but they have a bunch of other players stepping up now on offense. Their defense is mobile and plays with a mean streak. Erskin is going to be a problem for the Briere line. Cristobal Huet has solidified the goaltending position and has supplanted Kolzig as the number 1 goalie. In the end I think that if the Flyers can match the Caps enthusiasm and hitting, then they will win in 6. If they don't the Caps in 5.

The Flyers also handed out their awards today. Mike Richards won the Bobby Clarke trophy and Gene Hart Memorial award ; Kimmo Timonen won the Barry Ashbee award; Riley Cote and Braydon Coburn shared the Pelle Lindbergh trophy for most improved players; Marty Biron won both the Toyota Cup and Class Guy awards.

The playoffs are here. Time for some bubble hockey, foosball, or air hockey tournaments.

April 4, Flyers V Devils

2008-04-04T22:06:00.000-04:00

THE FLYERS ARE IN THE PLAYOFFS

After tonight's 3-0 shutout of the Devils and the Hurricanes loss to the Panthers in regulation time, the Flyers have officially made the playoffs.

In as strong an effort all year, the Flyers showed that they deserve to be one of the top 8 teams in the Eastern conference. They pounded the Devils for the 1st 2 periods to the point where the Devils were making defensive zone errors. They played an "in your face" style all night. Going into the 2rd period, however, the Flyers held a 1-0 lead. Midway through the period they exploded for 2 goals while skating 4 on 4. This was enough to make the Wacovia Center rock in a sea of orange and black.

Goals tonight were scored by Umberger, Upshall, and Lupul. Biron played well in the shutout, but really wasn't tested too much. He had to make 22 saves. It was nice seeing the Devils have to pull Brodeur. Quite honestly it was more a move to rest him for the game against the Rangers on Sunday more than about this game against the Flyers.

Great team effort and a well deserved win.
Briere was kept out of the game tonight which makes me think his knee injury is more serious than was first thought. Considering the team has officially made the playoff, I would be shocked to see him suit up against the Pens on Sunday.

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April 3, 2008 Flyers V Penguins

2008-04-03T21:52:00.000-04:00

I took a day to write this post because I wasn't quite sure how to approach its writing. By now we all know that the Flyers lost the game 4-2. It should not come as a surprise as the Pens have been unbeatable at home recently. How they lost the game, however, is debatable. Was it poor play? Poor goaltending? Poor special teams? Poor officiating? A league's obvious protection of certain players? Great goaltending and play against their opponent? All of the above are true.

Above all what concerns me is that the Flyers were able to beat the Pens handily 4 games in a row earlier in the season by using an abusing style that was relentless. Mike Richards was obsessive in his annoyance of Crosby. The last three games against the Pens (all losses) have seen this style disappear altogether. This method of play has not been played in more than a month. For the Flyers to be successful for the remainder of the games, they must return to this way of play.

With three games to go the Flyers need 4 points to ensure themselves a playoff spot. With last night's loss that number still remains 4 points, but now that number must be accomplished in 2 games against arch rival Devils and Penguins.

By the way, Washington wins tonight against the Lightning to take a one point lead over the Flyers for the 8th spot. Washington has 92 points with one game to go whereas the Flyers have 91 with 2 to go. Lets go Flyers.

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March 29, 2008 Flyers V Islanders

2008-03-29T22:41:00.000-04:00

The Flyers played the 2nd game in 2 nights this evening against the injury plagued Islanders. I have never seen a scratch list as long as that. I wonder where they would be if half of those players were in the lineup? Then again, even when they were they couldn't score goals. After last night's shootout loss to the Devils I was hoping the Flyers would not sputter through this game. Although Prospal was out of the lineup with the flu, the Flyers seemed like they were ready to play.

The Islanders scored the first goal on a wacky play that saw the puck get away from Niittymaki right to the front of the net where Park was there to score. The 1st period ended 1-0. Around the 8 minute mark of the 2nd period the Isles scores a goal by Comeau that, if the Flyers had good team D, would never had been scored. Poor coverage made the Isles' entry into the zone easy and a few passes later the puck was in the net, 2-1. At the 15 minute mark, the Flyers finally broke through Dubielewicz on a goal by Danny Briere on the powerplay. It was his 31st of the year. He hit the high corner as Bubielewicz went into the butterfly. The period ended 2-1 with the Flyers outshooting the Isles 33-16 at this point (23 shots in the 2nd period).

Roughly 3:30 into the 3rd period Joffrey Lupul scored the tying goal. It was hist 1st since coming back from his high ankle sprain. He scores in bunches, so maybe this is a really good sign with the end of the season near. The joy didn't last long as the Isles retook the lead on a goal by Nielsen. Niittymaki certainly should have had the shot. The Flyers continued to press the Isles for the tying goal until, right after a faceoff, Thoresen passed the puck out to Richards who buried it for his 28th of the year. Regulation time end 3-3.

The Islanders had it made in the overtime as the Flyers game them 2, yes 2, powerplay opportunities to score, but they came up short. The overtime ends still tied and we had to endure another shootout. I hate these things when the Flyers are involved because thy usually cannot score and their goalies are usually horrible. Tonight was different. Niittymaki was able to stop all 3 Islander shooters (Park was the only one that made Niitty earn his keep). Dubielewicz stopped both Richards (lost the puck) and Carter (poke check), but couldn;t stop Briere who slowly made his way towards the goalie, almost stopped, made a move to his backhand, and scored to win the game for the Flyers. Well done.

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March 28, 2008 Flyers V Devils

2008-03-28T22:23:00.000-04:00

The orange and black traveled to Newark tonight to take on a Devil's team that played last night and lost to the Rangers. Brodeur was in the midst of a career long 4 game losing streak. The Flyers have been playing well and looked to be the position to win their second game from the Devils.

The game started as the Flyers would have liked. The drew a lot of pressure on the Devils' goal and scored the game's 1st goal on another really nice play between Briere and Prospal. Prospal beat Brodeur with a wrist shot that seemed to mystify the goalie. That was about as much excitement that the Flyers could muster in the 1st period. Ultimately the Devils woke up and left the 1st period with a 2-1 lead.

The 2nd period didn't start much better as the Devils quickly opened up a 3-1 lead. Shortly thereafter, though, Jim Dowd scored a nice tip in goal to make it 3-2. The second period ended this way and the 3rd period saw both team trade chances and goals. The Flyers were able to tie the game on a floater by Randy Jones that sailed into the net, but the Devils were able to regain the lead with about 4 minutes left on a goal by Gionta (very poor defensive coverage). In the last minute of the game a really nice behind the back pass by Richards to Knuble led to Knuble scoring the game tying goal.

Overtime was pretty uneventful except for a few chances by both sides. Shootout time...

The Devils score on all three of their chances to win the game. Carter and Briere score for the Flyers. The Devils' shooters abused Biron who is just a hot mess when it comes to defending shootouts. At least the Flyers earned a point.

During the 2nd intermission, the feature was on the new Devils' arena. It looks beautiful, but unlike the Wacovia Center, it didn't seem to have the Super Chexx Bubble Hockey games in the concourse.

March 25, 2008 Flyers V. Rangers

2008-03-26T20:26:00.000-04:00

The Flyers took the ride up the New Jersey turnpike and crossed the bridge into Manhattan for a tilt against the Rangers last night. Riding a 3 game win streak that included a 4-3 SO win against these Rangers last week, they seemingly are getting their game back together at the right time.

Less than 2 minutes into the game the Rangers opened up the scoring on a play that was a mess from the start. Timonen lost his stick and meandered out towards the blueline to retrieve it. As he got back into position, he was not able to handle Jagr's size who spun around and beat Biron for his 20th of the season. The remainder of the period saw the Rangers controlling play as they had 3 powerplay opportunities.

The second period saw more of a stalemate with both team exchanging chances. It seemed like the Flyers began to get their skating legs and began to earn more scoring chances on the Rangers. The third period saw more of the same action until, during a 4 on 4 opportunity, the Flyers' Briere and Prospal connected on a gorgeous give and go to tie the game.

The game ended in a tie and overtime began. It was hectic as both teams went back and forth. Sean Avery carried the puck into the zone and curled up ala Gretzky. Problem was that he was surrounded by 3 Flyers. Jason Smith recognized this an eased his way up to the blueline as Avery sent a pass across the blueline that was intercepted by Smith. Smith saw Richards streaking and hit him for a semi breakway. Richards was able to beat Lundquist on the backhand for a 2-1 overtime win. What an ending!

It May Be A Good Idea To Sign Prospal

Briere and Prospal are looking really good together these past few games. They seem to possess a 6th sense about one another's position on the ice. A friend asked me last week if I try to resign Prospal and I said no. After seeing last night's goal. I changed my mind to an emphatic YES.

Check out the goal from last night:

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Introducing Super Bubble Hockey

2008-03-23T22:12:00.000-04:00

Super Bubble Hockey is an ecommerce business established on December 20, 2007 in Willow Grove, PA. It is an online store dedicated to providing its customers with the best in home gaming tables available. It is a family run business that started by offering only bubble and rod hockey games. At present time, Super Bubble Hockey offers a wide variety of table and bubble hockey games as well as brand name foosball and air hockey tables. All of the games offered by Super Bubble Hockey are manufactures in the USA.

What is Bubble Hockey?

Bubble, or dome hockey as it is also called, got its name because of the very distinguishable dome that covers the playfield. Typically the game is played either one on one or two one two with the competitors being responsible for the 5 players and the goalie. Game play is fast and furious as the puck never leaves the playing surface. Face-offs are automatic as the puck is either dropped onto the surface from above or ejected onto the playing surface. Most of the games have audio effects that offer realistic gaming experiences. Some offer coin-op options that can be switched on and off for business or home use.

Bubble Hockey History:

It is very important to distinguish that the histories of bubble hockey and table hockey are very different in their origin. The 1st table hockey games arrived in the 1920s. They had players made from wood and wire. Because the players could only spin in place, early table hockey games required a hump in the center of the table to keep the puck moving during game play. In the 1950s, our idea of modern table hockey was born. These games featured full color players capable of sliding up and down the playing surface. Most agree that table hockey in this manner existed in Europe since the 1930s.

The history of bubble hockey began in 1982 when Innovative Concepts in Entertainment created the first Chexx bubble hockey game. The Chexx bubble hockey game became incredibly popular with arcade goers and hockey fans alike. The game focused the USA hockey team against the Russian hockey team. Obviously some of the allure of the game played on the emotions of American hockey fans still proud from America's 1980 Olympic Gold medal hockey victory. Today, the Super Chexx bubble hockey game is the brand of choice for most bubble hockey enthusiasts as its standards have never waned from the beginning. There are other brands competing with Super Chexx for bubble hockey supremacy. Along with the original Super Chexx, models made by Regent- Halex, Harvard, Shelti, and Carrom are all worth checking out.

Bubble Hockey Rules:

The official IBHF (International Bubble Hockey Federation) rules are:

Three, 90-second periods in a game. Side of play is determined by coin flip.
The puck must stay in the net, and be registered by the game unit for a goal to be scored.
If regulation time ends in a tie, or a team is losing by one goal, then the game will be played until there is one decisive winner.
Tournament Play: If one team is ahead by two goals at the end of regulation, the game is over.
If the game malfunctions, the game will be replayed no matter what the score is.
Roughing the game will result in immediate disqualification. Examples of roughing include lifting, shaking, moving, and kicking the game, striking the dome, etc.
Players must be respectful and show good sportsmanship while playing. Foul language is discouraged. Spectators are not permitted to touch the game during play, including pushing the Boo button.
Penalties are called when violations occur involving Play Stalling, Spinning Players, and Shaking Goaltenders.
Play Stalling: Players are not permitted to stall play by deliberately holding puck for extended periods of time. A player may request a 5-Count (counted as one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two, etc.) from the referee if their opponent is stalling play. The player receiving the count must then pass or shoot at the end of the 5-Count. Failure to move the puck on the 5-Count will receive a penalty.
Spinning Players: Players are permitted to spin players for a maximum of one second per instance. Excessive spinning will result in a penalty.
Shaking Goaltenders: Players may shake the goaltender back and forth to the point of moving the puck. Goaltender shaking that causes the puck to move on the ice surface will receive a penalty.
Penalties are enforced in a two-step process. First penalty: player will receive a warning from the referee (yellow card). Second penalty: player will be disqualified by the referee (red card).

Manufacturers:

Super Bubble Hockey has established business relationships with the top manufacturers of bubble hockey, rod hockey, foosball, and air hockey games. The crown jewel of bubble hockey games is the famous Super Chexx. Manufactured by Innovative Concepts in Entertainment, this game has been manufactured in New York for over 25 years and continues to be the industry standard. Capable of being set to free play or coin op makes this a popular choice for both home and commercial use.

The Carrom Company provides Super Bubble Hockey with a wide variety of well-made and beautifully designed stick and dome hockey games. Popular stick hockey games by Carrom are elite stick hockey, super stick hockey, and the signature series that, depending on customer wishes, can be bought with leg support or with a pedestal. Of particular interest is a combination stick hockey and foosball table that is very popular for home entertainment needs.

Recently, Super Bubble Hockey was able to begin offering foosball and air hockey tables by Carrom as well. The most popular of these foosball games is the Signature Series Burr Oak Foosball table, but other color schemes are available. Through joint ventures between Carrom and NASCAR and Carrom and Harley-Davidson, Super Bubble Hockey is also able to offer NASCAR Licensed Premium Foosball Tables and the official Harley-Davidson Foosball as well. These games are manufactured and shipped from Michigan.

Carrom also supplies Super Bubble Hockey with its line of air hockey tables. Designed to last, these air hockey games will last in any home, school, business or recreational environment. Aside from its Signature series, again Carrom has partnered with NASCAR to provide Super Bubble Hockey with another officially licensed product.

Regent-Halex provides Super Bubble Hockey with two NHL sponsored dome and rod hockey games. Both the NHL Elite and NHL Dome hockey games complete with stickers so customers can decorate the games with their own team’s colors. Regent-Halex is affiliated with Spalding, Mitre, and MacGregor producing these hockey games for over 80 years from their NY location.

Valley-Dynamo provides Super Bubble Hockey with commercial and tournament level air hockey games. At 8 feet long, these are the air hockey games used on the professional circuit. Another game of note provided by Valley-Dynamo is the famous Tornado Foosball. A coin-op game, this is a best bet for arcades and sports bars everywhere.

March 23, 2008 Flyers V Islanders

2008-03-23T21:58:00.000-04:00

Happy Easter to everyone. Tonight the Flyers did themselves a favor and won a crucial game against the Islanders 4-1.

The Flyers took a 1-0 lead on a 5 on 3 powerplay on a really nice play with Briere passing the puck to Prospal for a slam dunk. In the second period, on another powerplay, the Flyers worked the puck around the zone with it ending on Coburn's stick for a patented one timer to make it 2-0. In the third the Flyers scored two more times. The first was yet another powerplay goal with Briere scoring his 29th of the season. Hard to believe that he probably will score 30+ considering how poorly he has played at times. The Flyers' line of Prospal, Briere and Hartnell connected on an even strength goal to make it 4-0. Briere passed the puck to Prospal who gained entry into the zone and took the puck wide. Meanwhile, Hartnell drove the net and tipped in a wonderful pass from Prospal. Later in the 3rd the Islanders scored their only goal of the game on the powerplay on a slapshot by Satan.

I often wonder what this Flyers team would look like over the season without the injuries and man games lost. After the 1st few games of the season, how many of us drooled wondering how many goals Gagne would have playing with Briere? Would the Flyers still be challenging for top seed in the conference had Richards, Lupul, and Hatcher not gone out with long term injuries? But alas, we'll never know. We just have to hope that this group continues to play better with each passing game and earns a playoff birth.

March 21, 2008 Flyers V Rangers

2008-03-21T23:19:00.000-04:00

"The Flyers won a game in a shootout, the Flyers won a game in a shootout"

The win vaulted the Flyers into 7th place, but with the Capitals pulling out a comeback win over Atlanta the Flyers only hold a two point lead over them. Meanwhile the Leafs beat the Sabres dropping them 3 points behind the Flyers now.

The game should never have gotten to overtime. The Flyers scored the 1st goal, a breakaway by Richards and scored again in the 3rd on a wrap around by Briere. The Rangers quickly struck back to make it 2-2. The Flyers paid them back with another goal of their own, again by Briere to make it 3-2. Then the wheels came off again. The Rangers scored again late to send the game into overtime. Despite a much improved effort by the Flyers in all facets of the game, they are still plagued by pucks going off their own players into their net (2 tonight) and not being able to close out games.

The Flyers' 2nd ranked powerplay was useless tonight. They even had a powerplay in overtime to make it 4 on 3 with nothing close to a goal. They, too often, try to thread the needle to just gain the blueline instead of outmanning the opposition and getting shots from the point. Wasted opportunities.

That said "Hey, we're in 7th place. Go Flyers!"

March 18, 2008 Flyers V Thrashers

2008-03-18T23:16:00.000-04:00

Well the trend continued with this latest string of poor starts. A mere minute into the game, Thorburn scored on a really weak shot on Niitymakki. How can this team be so tight and/or unprepared to play a game in the NHL at this part of the season? Luckily, Mike Richards' line with Lupul and Thorensen came to play and they tied the game later in the 1st. Once the goal was scored the team loosened up and the ice was completely tilted towards the Thrashers' zone for the rest of the period and most of the 2nd. There was a sense of unease as the 2nd period was about to end when the Flyers were rewarded with a powerplay. With 2.9 seconds left in the 2nd, Carter tipped a shot into the goal for a 2-1 lead. Midway through the 3rd the Flyers capitalized on a 2 on 1 led by Briere and Prospal with Prospal netting the eventual game winner.

I knew a 3-1 lead was not quite enough yet the Flyers held the lead into the final minute of the game. With about 30 seconds left in the game, Illya Kovalchuk scored his 50th on another play that only seems to happen to the Flyers. Pucks were bouncing, players couldn't get their sticks on it an suddenly it was in their net.

The Thrashers continued their onslaught for the final 30 seconds and almost tied in with about 4 seconds left when the Flyers were outplayed in their defensive zone and somehow a pass was made to a wide open Kovalchuk (Knuble was watching the puck). Niittymaki was able to flash a pad out and make the save to end the game.

This win gives the Flyers a 3 point lead over the Sabres. Despite the win and overall good play, we have to remember that it was against the Thrashers and they played well for 58 minutes. They were an absolute mess in the 1st and last minutes of the game and it nearly cost them again.

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March 16, 2008 Flyers V Penguins

2008-03-16T14:45:00.000-04:00

I really think that this is becoming monotonous. After yesterday's debacle against the Bruins I mentioned key points about defense and goaltending. Today, it rang true again. Poor goaltending, a team defense that is similar to a sieve and an ineffective offense led to a 7-1 loss and possibly the end of the road for the playoff hunt. I know, I know. Two short years ago the Oilers barely made it to the playoffs and proceeded to play in game 7 of the Cup finals. That is a totally different situation. In this hockey game the team is showing no leadership from within and more importantly looks like they are ready to store their gear and head out to the golf course now. There is no hunger and no immediacy to their play. The Penguins cut them apart today like a surgical team. One measly goal on against an average defense and ok goalie is pathetic. The coaching has to be looked at right about now. I know I mentioned this before, but how can a team roll over in the midst of a playoff race? Enough said.

March 15, 2008 Flyers V Bruins

2008-03-16T13:15:00.000-04:00

At this time of the year the name of the game is making the playoff. Remember when, just a short time ago, the Flyers were challenging for 1st place in the Eastern conference? Then a 10 game losing streak, a few wins, and more overtime and shootout losses. How can it be possible for a professional hockey team to be so lackadaisical in their own zone? Their team defense is awful. At this level there is no reason to not be able to chip the puck out of the zone or a breakout that actually involves passing instead of just clearing the puck up center ice.

Todays game against the Bruins was a game that the Flyers should have won. They came back from yet another 1-0 deficit to be ahead 2-1 with 24 seconds left in the game. At which point poor coverage and bounces off of their own players led to the tying goal. In overtime they had some glorious opportunities to win and didn't bear down. Instead Biron let in another weak goal by Aaron Ward (remember him from earlier this year winning a game in overtime?)

Biron's play is baffling. He is either stellar or just ordinary with a penchant to let in soft goals. I have always said that what a team wants out of its goaltender is to stop all of the routine shots and make a few saves on those that would be considered great saves. When Biron handles his rebounds, he's on his game. When he doesn't, watch out. Couple that with letting in soft goals and you're number 1 goalie situation is an issue again.

Maybe they'll be able to pull something out of their hat against the Pens on Sunday. Yeah right.

March 12, 2008 Flyers V Leafs

2008-03-12T21:35:00.000-04:00

Although not as disappointing as last night, the Flyers put forth yet another pathetic effort. For a team that is in the midst of a playoff race they are playing as if they have been out of the race for a month. No passion. I could even say, no effort. To lose at home again at this stage of the season is unacceptable. At this point I wonder if the return of Mike Richards will do anything. I thought with them having 4 former captains on this team they would never be susceptible to lapses in emotion and effort. At this point, I would seriously consider sitting a few of these players regardless of their salaries and remind them that they are professional hockey players, not beer leaguers. They couldn't beat the Leafs even with Sundin leavingin the 1st period with an injury.

Flyers get goals by Carter and (at this time) Timonen.

They have to play Lasse Kukkonen.

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March 11, 2008 Flyers V Leafs

2008-03-11T22:26:00.000-04:00

Tonight was a display that truly indicates why, if the Flyers do make the playoffs, they are in serious trouble. The Leafs played a wonderful game, yet spotted the Flyers a 3-0 lead. They controlled the play from beginning to end and without the efforts of Marty Biron, it would have been a blowout from the start. The Flyers got goals from Upshall, Coburn, and Briere. That should have been enough for them to clamp down. But no.

The Leafs stormed their way back from a 3-0 deficit throughout the 3rd period. One constant? Horrible defensive zone play and incredibly poor clears. The tying goal was scored on a play where Randy Jones' clearing attempt went right to Williams who shot a laser over Biron's shoulder. The Flyers' breakout, clears and neutral zone regroups have to be among the worst in the league right now. To make matters worse is that despite Biron's efforts, the Leafs' Kubina scored his 2nd of the game in overtime. The Flyers deserved to lose this game from the start. When they built a 3-0 lead I thought that they may be able to pull this one out. Once Sundin scored their 2nd goal I knew the Flyers were dead in the water. Hopefully, they will actually bring some energy tomorrow night and avenge this loss. They need the 2 points.

3/8/08 Flyers V Islanders

2008-03-09T15:53:00.001-04:00

This was truly a must win for the Flyers and they came through with a 4-1 victory last night. With Buffalo able to earn a point against the 'Canes, the Flyers were only able to add one point to their, now, 4 point lead over the Sabres and a 7 point lead over the Isles. Tonight may be the night that ultimately clinches the Flyers a playoff spot. Consider if the Isles and Sabres had won. The Flyers would have a meager 76 points, the Sabres would tie them with 76 as well, and the Isles would have 73. My little plan above doesn't even take into the account the Caps who have lost now 2 straight. Had they won those games (which they should have) they would have 76 points too. You've got to love parity. This was a big night for the Flyers and their fans.

It really is a shame for the Islanders. In my opinion they were able to control the puck for stretches of the game and if they had scored first, the outcome may have been different. They just do not have anyone they can rely on for offense, or shall I say to finish the plays with a goal.

The Flyers' powerplay was able to get back on track tonight with 4 powerplay goals. I must admit that DiPietro looked less than spectacular in goal, but the Flyers played with a purpose and deserved the goals. Danny Briere opened the scoring with his 24th goal as he snapped in a rebound for a 1-0 lead. About 10 minutes later the Flyers were rewarded another powerplay and a miscue/bad bounce by DiPietro led to Upshall centering a pass to Carter who had to bat it out of the air and into the net for his 26th of the season. Once the 2nd goal was scored it seemed that the Islanders were ready to roll over and go home.

In the 3rd period, the Islander killer Scott Hartnell scored two powerplay goals to give him a total of 22 on the season. Image how many goals he'd have scored if it take him a 1/4 of the season to get going?

Overall, a good game for the Flyers. They still have some major defensive zone issues that need to be resolved. They are often out of position or wait to the play to come to them instead of forcing the offense into turning the puck over. When they do get the puck, they are too quick to get rid of it, often sending blind clears through center ice. Well, at least they look like they should make the playoff after being the league's walking mat last year.

This week is a home and home against the Leafs. That should be some fun.

3/6/08 Flyers V Lightning

2008-03-06T22:26:00.000-05:00

The Flyers have not won at home against the Bolts in the past 8 games at home including last month's loss. It didn't good in this must win game when they surrendered the 1st goal a mere 31 seconds into the tilt to newcomer Jokinen. The Flyers started really stagnant like most games lately, but were able to fight back in more ways than one this period.

On a really nice transition play, Umberger gave Briere a nice pass and he was able to launch a beautiful snap shot over Smith's shoulder to tie the game. Prior to this goal Riley Cote went toe to toe with Andre Roy. A nice fight. Each man took and gave as good as he could. This spurred the Flyers a bit and led to the Briere goal. Moments later, on another beautiful backhand shot, Jeff Carter scored to continue his torrid pace. Flyers up 2-1 going into the 2nd.

The second went back and forth with each team trading powerplays and chances. Ultimately, the Lightning were able to tie the game on a nice three man passing play with Ouellette scoring the tying goal. In my opinion it was a nice play but a soft goal for Biron to give up. He was already in the butterfly when Ouellete's shot slid through him into the net. I think if Biron's stick is on the ice the goal isn't scored.

The third began and my pessimism grew that the Flyers weren't going to win this one. 3 minutes into the 3rd Cote and Roy went at it again and Cote dropped him with two quick lefts. The fight began as a carbon copy of the 1st. In both fights Cote grabbed for Roy's jersey and missed, Roy gets rid of his elbow pad and it was on. In this fight, after ridding himself of the elbow pad, Roy was abused by Cote. Great TV angle. With a few minutes to go and with Coburn in the box for diving and Lecavalier in for hooking, the Flyers' Carter scored his 2nd of the game with a wicked wristshot from just inside the blueline. Smith was again in the butterfly as the puck soared over his shoulder.

Flyers win 3-2. Can you believe it?

3/5/08 Flyers V Sabres

2008-03-05T21:49:00.000-05:00

The Flyers have to be one of the unluckiest teams in the NHL. They finally seem to get the ship righted and another top flight forward goes out on injury. Now, Briere is listed as day to day with a shoulder problem. How long will he be absent from the lineup? I'm sure it won't be just last night's game. The Flyers were victimized by yet another poor start. They spotted the Sabres a 2-0 lead before showing up for the game. When they did, they clawed their way back to a 2-2 tie on goals by Upshall and Downie. At that point the play was really starting to swing their way. This is how the 2nd period ended.

The 3rd period began with the two teams skating 4 on 4. On a play that may define the Flyers season if they miss the playoffs, Coburn was caught in deep on a play and Connelly spung a flying Derek Roy for a breakaway and goal to make it 3-2. It looked like the Flyers were caught asleep at the wheel. Blown coverages everywhere. Ah, but this is not the case. Upon further investigation, Roy left his bench WAY early and this is why he was alone. On a 4 on 4 situation, 4 of Roy's teammates on the ice watched as he streaked in for the game winning goal. See the problem here? All 4 officials missed the too many men call. This sent the Flyers into a tailspin and Pomminville scored about a minute later to make it 4-2. Maxim Afinogenov rounded out the scoring on a play that Biron should have made. Once he scored to make it 5-2, Biron's night was through. This is a concern. In each of the Flyers last two games their goaltenders have been pulled. Ugh.

Tomorrow night Tampa. Think Prospal will finally bring his A game?

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3/2/08 Flyers V Rangers

2008-03-03T10:32:00.000-05:00

Always a fun game to watch for hockey fans, a Flyers/Rangers tilt provides a combination of skill and hatred expected of a divisional rivalry. Today's game met all expectations, except from each team's goaltending which was weak overall.

Vinny Prospal was able to light the lamp early in the game to give the Flyers a 1-0 lead. The lead was quickly erased as the Rangers were able to tie it. After Braydon Coburn scored another powerplay goal, the Rangers were able to tie the score again and shortly thereafter take their first lead. Late in the period, Jeff Carter scored his 1st of the game to tie the score 3-3. This goal chased Lundquist and Valiquette started the 2nd period.

The Rangers' goalie change gave them a boost as they were able to take the lead on Backman's first as a blue shirt. This goal chased Nittymaki. This lead held into the 3rd before our superman, Jeff Carter, tied the game again on a wonder hand eye play where he batted the puck out of the air.

A nice fight between Colton Orr and Jesse Boulerice. Both landed their share of punches.

Both teams skated through the overtime without a goal. In the shootout, the Rangers' Shanahan and Dawes scored and neither Flyers player lit the lamp. Game ends 4-3 Rangers. Flyers have a 3 point weekend. I'd say that is a success.

Questions to ponder: Even though Nitty was awful this game, do you put him back in for the shootout considering how awful Biron is at it? Should Carter be double shifted or what?

Tomorrow the Flyers host the Sabres who are behind them in the standing. It is another must win. They have to open up a gap.

3/1/08 Flyers V Islanders

2008-03-01T17:50:00.000-05:00

A pretty spirited game this afternoon. The Flyers were given the opportunity to make up their game in hand against the Sabres and Rangers and they were able to take advantage. Get this. They scored the opening goal this afternoon. When was the last time that happened? Jeff Carter continued his torrid pace depositing a nice pass from Upshall to make it 1-0. In the second period the Isles were put on the powerplay. It was noted how they have the 30th ranked pp at home and how bad they are and so on. Well, a few moments into it Bill Guerin became the 2nd Islander this season to hit the 20 goal mark. As pathetic as that is, it tied the score 1-1.

The Flyers were rewarded with their own powerplay later in the period and made short work of the Islander's pk unit. Briere made a nice cross ice pass to Coburn, who roofed a one timer to make it 2-1 Flyers.

The 3rd period was well on its way when the Islanders were put on another powerplay. Although their actual play with the puch during the powerplay was nothing special, the mere fact that the Flyers are horrible on faceoffs were a cause for concern. During the pk, the Flyers' Carter was able to race past Miro Satan and went in all alone on DiPietro. He made the save, whereas Carter quickly passed the puck to the front of the net and hit Knuble's skate as he was pivoting back up the ice. The puck had some eyes and made it through the beleaguered Isle's goalie, 3-1 Flyers.

The game ended 4-1 as Upshall made a nice play to earn an empty net goal. Good game all around, yet there are still concerns that I have for the Flyers: Chemistry between Briere and Prospal, a defense that is at times immobile, a terrible face-off percentage. One cannot complain too much since they are now in the midst of a three game winning streak.

Rangers tomorrow.

2/28/08 Flyers V Senators

2008-03-01T10:16:00.000-05:00

Looking back on this game a few days after it has taken place, I am satisfied with how the Flyers player. After their earlier shootout win against the Sabres this week, I was expecting Ottawa to come in flying and mopping up the Wacovia Center. Despite the fact that they had been in their own tailspin as of late, they had just fired John Paddock and Bryan Murray went behind the bench for his second tour of duty.

Both teams started the game with a a bit of sandpaper. They were both skating quite well and took advantage of each other's problem areas. The Briere, Prospal, Umberger line looked ok, but the give and go game we were promised really never materialized. Hopefully it will show up against the Islanders and Rangers this weekend. The Carter, Upshall, and Knuble line looked great and were ultimately responsible for 2 of the Flyers' goals. The other goal was generated by the 4th line of Dowd, Cote, and Kappanan. Nice slap shot JD.

The scoring began in the 2nd period on a Senator's powerplay. Jason Spezza had a nice tip in. Problem was he celebrated for an eternity in front of Biron who took exception. In the ensuing maylee, Spezza butt-ended Coburn and was ejected from the game. This was the turning point. A few minutes later Dowd tied the game on a nice play where Timonen made a long outlet pass to Cote who passed it off to Dowd. Dowd skated down his off wing and rifled a slapper inside the right post. The Flyers took the lead in the 3rd when Knuble deflected a knuckleball shot from Jason Smith past Emery. The scoring for the evening ended on another fantastic outlet pass from Timonen to Upshall who skated in all alone on Emery. Emery saved the shot, but Wade Redded slid into him as Knuble was whacking away. Credit for the goal eventually went to Knuble. Flyers win season series 3-1.

That's two in a row. With Buffalo losing last night, the Flyers need to take at least 3 of 4 points this weekend against tough opponents in the Islanders and Rangers. I wonder if the Ranger start Valliquette again?

My prediction: Flyers 4-2 against the Islanders and lose 3-2 to the Rangers tomorrow.

2/23/08 Flyers V Panthers

2008-02-23T23:01:00.000-05:00

Can this really be happening to a team that was challenging to be top dog in the Eastern conference just a few weeks ago? Tonight marked the Flyers' 10th loss in a row, yet they did secure one point as it was a loss in overtime. They totally dominated the Panthers for approximately 59 minutes and 56 seconds of tonight's game. They held a meager 1-0 lead late in the third period. As play was winding down, a failed clear or amazing keep in (depending on which team you route for) led to Boumeester scoring the tying goal. Then, in overtime, the Flyers took a penalty and Jokinen scored to give the Panthers the win. Unbelievable.

For the Flyers, Danny Briere broke his goal drought with a powerplay marker in the second period. The Flyers' offensive woes continue as they outshot Florida 2-1 yet only score one goal. Carter continues to get opportunities on semi and complete breakaways and cannot seem to convert. I say they will earn their 11th loss in a row when they play the Sabres on Monday night. Then we'll have to see what the trade winds bring us, if anything.

Can anyone tell me why Kukkonen is sitting when Smith is as beaten up as he is?

I love that Parent is playing in all situations. Ballsy for a kid with what 3 NHL games under his belt.

Last night Jim Vandermeer made his debut with Calgary. By the was the broadcasters were speaking, you would have thought he was the 2nd coming of Bobby Orr. He apparently is good enough to be pair with Dion Phaneuf.

Maybe the Flyers should play some bubble hockey.

Flyers V Senators and Flyers V Sharks

2008-02-21T23:11:00.001-05:00

A few days have passed since the Flyers dropped their eighth straight to the Sens 3-2 in a shootout. In a game that was completely going in the Sens favor, the Flyers showed some gusto while shorthanded when Umberger and Timonen connected for a short handed tally. A little later the Flyers tied it on a goal by Upshall only to lose their zazillionth shoot out game. Highlights were the NHL debut by Claude Giroux. He looked good and almost scored on a 5-3 powerplay and then again on a nice move during the shootout and Lasse Kukkonen who does pretty much everything he can to be a top 6 defenseman in the league yet still earn only spot duty on the Flyers. Ryan Parent continues to impress as well.

Tonight began with the Flyers celebrating Jeremy Roenick's 500th goal in a pregame ceremony. Throughout the game highlights of JR were shown on TV and his play indicated that he is still an effective player in this league. He was hitting, passing, and shooting with zest. Problem was that it was for the Sharks and tonight's Flyers team still appears weak. They went down 1-0 yet again. How many times can this possibly happen before they score the first goal? Ultimately, they tied in with about 6 seconds left in the second period. Riley Cote even got into a fight and the Skarks were on their own 5 game skid. Could tonight be the night? Absolutely not. The Flyers chemistry is awful right now. Their breakouts are a mess. The gap between the forwards and d is way too wide. Shall I go on? Ultimately the Sharks score 2 in the third to win 3-1. How many penalties did the Flyers take?

The Flyers offense is a mess right now, but could be fixed if Stevens made some obvious moves. First, Briere is lost out there and now the fans are booing him. Lets face it people, in Buffalo he thrived off of the transition game and have wingers that were conducive to his game. In Philly so far, his best winger, Gagne, has been on the shelf for pretty much the whole year. Now he is playing on a line with Umberger (ok, not bad) and Kapanen (really?). Sami is quick and all, but he is no where close to the same offensive player he was when he was on Carolina. If I were coach I would play Briere as part of a 5 man unit. His wingers, now, would be Carter (I know he is a center, but he should be a shooter) and either Hartnell or Knuble. The defensive pair would be Timonen and Coburn. If this unit played together, they would be strong.

Saturday we have the Panthers. Lets make it 10 losses in a row.

2/18/08 Flyers V Habs

2008-02-18T10:08:00.000-05:00

In the second half of a home and home series this weekend, the Flyers were trying to snap their 6 game skid and get back into the win column. Based upon their play in the 3rd period of Saturday's game, it looked like this was to be the night to finally beat the Habs. The Flyers decided to start Niittymaki again over Biron due to his efforts the night before. The Canadiens went with Price again and why not? Going into the game he was 2-0 with a 0.5 GAA against the Flyers this year.

Only 6 minutes into the game, the Flyers were again victimized by poor defensive zone coverage and some creative as Kovalev scored to make it 1-0. The home team continued to play and finally scored a shorthanded goal by Richards to make it 1-1. After a devastating hit by Upshall in the Canadiens' defensive zone, it looked like a fight or two was going to break out. Many Flyers on the ice stopped playing and began coasting into the Habs' zone. Play continued and with about 1.5 seconds left in the period, the Canadiens scored to make it 2-1. Unacceptable for professional players to not play between the whistles.

The second period started and the Flyers tied it on a weird play. Coburn raced into the zone and took a shot that was deflected up and arced over Upshall's ducking head and into the net, 2-2 and a renewed sense of spirit. It didn't last long and about 1.5 minutes later Ryder scored on a scramble for the puck in front of the net. Despite some valiant goaltended by Niittymaki, the Habs were able to make it 4-2 8 minutes later on the powerplay as Koivu scored.

The 3rd period began without much fare and the Habs scored an empty net goal to make it 5-2. With 19 seconds left in the game, Riley Cote scored his first NHL goal. Congrats, you deserve it. Game ends 5-3 and the Flyers losing streak is now 7.

Notes:

Coburn was sorely missed during his absence. His transition game was in effect and he earned a goal and an assist.

Gagne out with a concussion.
Downie out with a mild concussion
Lupul out for up to a month with a high ankle sprain.
Hatcher out for another 3 weeks due to his knee.

So, we all know that in Montreal Briere gets booed for spurning the Habs in favor of the Flyers. Last night the boos followed him to Philly. There were a lot of Habs fans in the Wacovia Center, but is it possible that people are starting to wonder if he was the best choice? Having not had Gagne for the majority of the year has hurt his production at even strength.

The Flyers' defense is atrocious right now. They are on the ice flat footed right now and are not initiating contact. This is a major issue for this team. There transition game is completely lost right now and they are a shell of the team that only 3 weeks ago was sitting number 2 in the conference.

Since the Flyers have been on this losing streak I have noticed that Riley Cote has not been fighting nearly as much. Coincidence? Fighting in the NHL serves a major purpose. When a team shows team toughness and has a willing pugilist, everyone skates a bit taller and other teams are much less likely to take liberties. Lets get back to Flyers hockey. Remember when they crushed the Penguins and even Jeff Carter dropped the gloves... and won? Where is that team?

A game of stick hockey, anyone?

2/16/08 Flyers V Habs

2008-02-17T10:14:00.000-05:00

Make it 6.

Although the Flyers played a much improved game last night, the Habs recent dominance over the Flyers continued as Carey Price earned his first NHL shut out. Both teams played it very close exchanging power plays throughout the contest with the Canadiens scoring the only goal of the game on one of theirs in the 2nd period. Skating into the zone, Alex Kovalev drew two defenseman to him and was able to pass the puck to his right for Andrei Kostsitsyn. He made a move on Niitymakki, who made the save. Somehow, Kostsitsyn was able to corral his rebound ala Ovechkin and slide the puck into the net. A hightlight type goal for the amazing effort.

The Flyers squandered a 5-3 powerplay in which they peppered Price with 8 good chances. It appeared that they tied it late in the 3rd on a play reminiscent of a game last week where Referee Jackson declared that Hartnell drove the goalie into the net and never went for a video review to see where the puck was. Same thing tonight. Same referee as well. Why is it that Jackson doesn't even check upstairs to see where the puck was when he whistled the play dead?

Well, another game another injury. Tonight in the 1st period Joffrey Lupul was lost again. He sustained a high ankle sprain and is out indefinitely. His loss, to me, is huge with Gagne out of the lineup and Briere and Richards not lighting it up at the moment.

Tonight the Flyers play the 2nd in the home and home series with the Canadiens. Hopefully, they can get a few bounces and break the 6 game losing streak.

2/16/08 Flyers V Lightning

2008-02-16T10:19:00.000-05:00

Well, it took me a few days to write about this game. Once again, poor defensive zone play and weak offense took its toll on the Flyers. Despite giving up the first goal of the game, they came out of the 1st period with a 2-1 lead thanks to goals by Lupul and Downie. The second period was an unraveling by the Flyers as awful giveaways and terrible penalties allowed the Lightning to end the period leading 4-2. The third period didn't start much better as another defensive lapse led to the Lightning scoring yet another goal to make it 5-2. Ultimately, the Flyers' Carter scored on a deflection to cut the lead to 5-3. This is how the game ended.

Just like previous games, the Flyers are playing in 5 or 10 minute spurts. Consistency has not been one of their finer points since the all star break. Having lost Coburn to injury really hurts this team and although I thought the addition of Vandermeer earlier was a great move, his erratic play as a top 6 defenseman must be addressed. He is prone to making horrific turnovers (at least 1 a game) and is not really bringing the physical attitude necessary to make him effective. He should, at best, be their 7th d-man with Kukkonen being in the top 6.

Well, they have the Habs tonight and I predict yet another loss. The Flyers have had horrible luck against the Canadiens for the past few years and tonight will be no different. Prediction 4-2 Habs.