Frost giveth, Frost taketh away. In the guts of the season, the Flyers have now lost five straight games with little to no margin of error. Let’s wrap:
Couturier Leaves Game with an Injury
The second half of the season has been brutal for Flyers captain Sean Couturier. After having his ice time slashed and spending a couple games as a healthy scratch, Couturier now appears to be injured again.
Couturier took a heavy hit from Isles defensemen Ryan Pulock in the corner and did not return to the game. The captain appeared to be favoring his shoulders or arm as he skated to the bench.
We’ll have to monitor his status, but with only six games remaining, it may be wise to sit the player for the reminder of the year.
Fedotov Fierce in Debut
Now that’s a way to make a debut, huh? The Flyers’ international sensation Ivan Fedotov unexpectedly made his NHL debut in this one, spelling Sam Ersson to begin the second period. Fedotov, 27, stopped 14-of-15 shots fired his way and looked comfortable almost instantly. The hulking goaltender played very calmly, often snaring lots of pucks in and around the Flyers goal crease. The Flyers did get a momentarily boost from Fedotov coming into the game, but the club lost quite a few puck battles in the middle frame and were generally outworked by the Islanders.
Playoff Grip Loosens
Ever hear that Yogi Berra quote, “it’s getting late early”? That would apply to the Flyers right about now. With this loss, they now have some firm competition for their playoff position. The Islanders are suddenly a threat now, with the Capitals and Red Wings within striking distance as well. The Flyers may simply run out of games to nail down a playoff spot.
However, no one seems to be playing at the moment which, to be honest, may be the Flyers only saving grace.
Did You Know?
According to NHL Stats, Travis Sanheim scored 43 seconds into the second period. It marked his sixth career goal within the opening 60 seconds of a period, which is the second most by a Flyers defenseman behind only Mark Howe. Howe did it a remarkable 10 times in his career.
On Deck
The Flyers will head out on the road to get themselves right on Friday, when they head to Buffalo to take on the Sabers.
