The Flyers got back in the win column on home ice Thursday, thanks to a history making-night for one Philly forward. Let’s wrap on all the sights and sounds of the game:
Thanks A Laught
What could be better than a hat trick? Try scoring all four goals like Scott Laughton did in this one.
Despite a lackluster start to the night for both teams, at the 13:22 mark of the second period, the Flyers finally solved Wings’ netminder Cam Talbot with a Laughton breakaway. Laughton ripped a slap shot blast past Talbot’s glove to break through for the first tally of the game.
Then, at the 1:31 mark of the third period, the 30 year-old forward joined a rush on the penalty kill with Travis Konecny before getting a tap-in by the far post. Later, he would add the two empty net goals. The shorthanded goal marked Laughton’s 100th career goal.
“To score 100, it’s pretty cool to me,” Laughton said. “I know it’s not much to some guys, but it’s pretty cool to get that. Especially the way I did with TK.”
According to NHL stats, Laughton ties John LeClair for most goals in a game by a Flyer. LeClair potted four goals on Oct. 15, 2002 in a 6-2 Flyers win in Montreal against the Canadiens. Laughton now has seven goals and seven assists in 31 games played this season. He also has seven points in his last 10 games.
Michigan, Population: Michkov
Though he didn’t get on the scoresheet, Matvei Michkov almost created another highlight reel moment in his banner rookie campaign. The Russian wunderkind attempted to hit his somewhat signature lacrosse style shot during a delayed penalty call in the second period. Affectionally known as “the Michigan” in hockey circles, the move is becoming more and more a regular occurrence today. In the old NHL, one could never dream off attempting it without someone looking to take the players head off. Michkov has utilized the move on a number of occasions in Russia in the past.
Nevertheless skill, perhaps more so than ever, is at the forefront of the game now. It’s fun to see someone try it in a game at this level.
Kool, Calm and Collected
Alexei Kolosov made 25 saves on 26 shots, posting a 9.62 save percentage in the win. Prior to the game, John Tortorella revealed how he sees the goalie depth at present time, which turned out to be a good thing for the Belarusian. The head coach has Sam Ersson as his number one, Kolosov as the backup, and Ivan Fedotov as the third goalie. This will likely change depending on overall play, but as it stands, Kolosov is earning the right to play.
“To get the scoring chances in the second half of that third period and how he stood in there, he was really good,” Tortorella said. “That [glove] save was a huge save.”
You can see that save above clipped in the tweet. I think Kolosov has earned himself the start in Minnesota on Saturday.
They Said It
John Tortorella on the Flyers Fourth Line: “I didn’t like the line tonight. I like Laughts; I mean he scores four goals. I don’t think the line played that well.”
Scott Laughton on Taking a Slap Shot on the Breakaway: “I’ve been waiting on my chance in the shootout and I was going to let one fly. I was thinking slapper the whole way down.”
Sean Couturier on Scott Laughton’s big night: “I’m really happy for him. He’s one of the best teammates you can have.”
Alexei Kolosov on Being Named the backup goaltender by John Tortorella: “It doesn’t mean anything. Just happy to be here and happy to play for him.”
Did You Know?
Scott Laughton’s shorthanded goal in the third period now gives him 23rd career shorthanded points. This ties Simon Gagne for the ninth most in Flyers history.
On Deck
The Flyers head to Minnesota to take on Krill Kaprizov and the Wild on Saturday, 2:00 p.m. puckdrop. The game will be broadcast locally on NBCSP.
