-Round 1 Flyers Devils-
Results:
Game 1 @ NJ: 2-1 Flyers
Game 2 @NJ: 5-3 Devils
Game 3 @PHL: 3-2 OT Flyers
Game 4 @PHL: 4-1 Flyers
Game 5 @NJ: 3-0 Flyers
Looking back on this series it looks as though the Flyers dominated but this really is not so. While Brodeur played amazing and kept them in a couple games, the Devils couldn't find a krytonite for the Flyers' Superman, Brian Boucher. The Devils Powerplay was average at best at time it looked like Kovi was the only one out there with the blinders, and the Flyers Penalty Kill looked great with Betts and Lappy Pronger and Timonen logging most of the minutes. Flyers Scoring picked up right after an OT goal by Daniel Carcillo in game 3. That was the nail in the coffin and the Flyers carried that momentum through the next 2 game and took the series in 5 games, 4-1.
The series MVP had to be Brian Boucher, we saw what happens when he's not on his game and he had to be top of the line until the Flyers scoring picked up. He ended the series with a league low 1.59 Goals Against Average.
-Stats-
Offense:
Richards leads team with 8pts, 2 Goals 6 Assists.
Giroux leads in goals with 4, 2 goals in the clincher.
Carcillo suprising leads the team with a plus/minus of +4, and PIM with 18.
Carter led with 17 shots in 4 games.
Defense:
Pronger leads with 5 points, 2 goals and 3 assists.
Goalie:
Boucher played in all 5 games his stat line is, 4 wins 1 loss 1.59 GAA .904 S%
-Injury Report-
Carter 5 weeks, Broken foot
Gagne 2 weeks, Broken foot
Leighton practicing this week and should be available to back up Bouch next series, groin
Laperiere out for rest of playoffs with a Mild Concusion.
Ville Leino and David Laliberte seem to be the two the Flyers will call on until their stars, Carter and Gagne, get back. Lappy's replacement will be decided as the week progresses. Possibly long time AHLer Jared Ross.
Game 1 in Boston Saturday @ 12:30.
Wednesday
Injury Front
Jeff Carter tallied his first two goals of the series in Tuesday night's 4-1 win vs the Devils. This morning it came out that he would not be in the line-up for game 5 up in Jersey. It was also said that Simon Gagne would miss the game. In the second period of game 4 Gagne block a big slapper from Devils Sniper Ilya Kovalchuk and didn't return.
Today reports said Gagne and Carter both have Broken right feet. Gagne will miss atleast 3 weeks. Carter is done for the rest of the year, after re-braking his foot, he looked good in game 4 and didn't show any signs of his foot bothering him.
The Flyers aren't handing game 5 to the Devils though, as they have decided to dress David Lalilberte and Ville Leino. Leino was practicing with Briere and Giroux earlier this week and would be put with them but Giroux JVR Asham are playing too well right now. Laliberte is also an offensive play and will most likely take a lesser work load. Riley Cote will stay sindelined but could make an appearence if the series goes on. Right now his presents is not needed.
Projected Line Combos:
These are all based on previous lineups and an NHL tweet:
Laliberte Richards Carcillo - Carcillo and Richy have good Chemistry. Laliberte to fill Gagne's spot.
JVR Giroux Asham - Line's looked great so far.
Hartnell Briere Leino - Leino and Briere play similar styles, Harnell staying with Briere.
Lappy Betts Powe - Line's been very good, grinders logging a lot of minutes.
In Leino's time with the team after his mad season arrival from Detroit he's played well. Only tallied 2 goals and 4 points in 13 games, but seemed like he was everywhere and just step away from scoring a lot more. His oppurtunity is now, with his skill he could become a key this Spring.
David Laliberte, (French for Freedom), played 11 games this season and only got 3 points (all 3 came in first 2 games, including game winner vs Carolina) , however playing for the Phantoms he tallied 28 goals and 20 assists in 70 games. He has scoring pontential, although Martin Brodeur may not be the best guy for him to start developing it.
Today reports said Gagne and Carter both have Broken right feet. Gagne will miss atleast 3 weeks. Carter is done for the rest of the year, after re-braking his foot, he looked good in game 4 and didn't show any signs of his foot bothering him.
The Flyers aren't handing game 5 to the Devils though, as they have decided to dress David Lalilberte and Ville Leino. Leino was practicing with Briere and Giroux earlier this week and would be put with them but Giroux JVR Asham are playing too well right now. Laliberte is also an offensive play and will most likely take a lesser work load. Riley Cote will stay sindelined but could make an appearence if the series goes on. Right now his presents is not needed.
Projected Line Combos:
These are all based on previous lineups and an NHL tweet:
Laliberte Richards Carcillo - Carcillo and Richy have good Chemistry. Laliberte to fill Gagne's spot.
JVR Giroux Asham - Line's looked great so far.
Hartnell Briere Leino - Leino and Briere play similar styles, Harnell staying with Briere.
Lappy Betts Powe - Line's been very good, grinders logging a lot of minutes.
In Leino's time with the team after his mad season arrival from Detroit he's played well. Only tallied 2 goals and 4 points in 13 games, but seemed like he was everywhere and just step away from scoring a lot more. His oppurtunity is now, with his skill he could become a key this Spring.
David Laliberte, (French for Freedom), played 11 games this season and only got 3 points (all 3 came in first 2 games, including game winner vs Carolina) , however playing for the Phantoms he tallied 28 goals and 20 assists in 70 games. He has scoring pontential, although Martin Brodeur may not be the best guy for him to start developing it.
Tuesday
IonLS: Round1 Game4 - Home Sweeping
This series saw a split up at Prudential Center. Then as the series turned to Philadelphia the Flyers were able to grab a win in OT. Game 4, Enjoy!
-1-
The first period of Tuesday's game looked a lot like the opening period on Sunday. It started off with 3 straight Devils powerplays.
On their 3rd Ilya Kovalchuk took one of his 5 shots in the 1st and beat Brian Boucher. It was another point shot on the Powerplay.
The Flyers once again didn't let the penalties get in their head. killing them off and going right back on the attack. But there waiting for them was Devils Hall of Fame Goaltender Marty Brodeur to stop all 7 shots he saw that period.
As mentioned earlier Kovi got his 2nd goal of the series, 1st in G2 (EN), he also fired 5 shots on net, the devils total was 12. This could pan out to be the game he was waiting for.
End 1st 1-0 NJD
Shots 12-7 NJD
Powerplays 1/3 NJD, 0/1 PHL
-2-
The Flyers may not have scored in the 1st, but they did have plenty of chances and after killing their 3rd penalty took over the game.
This paid off when Jeff Carter scored from the slot, it was his 1st goal of the series.
Chances went back and forth for the majority of the period. And Boucher was quiet in making the saves he needed too.
With 2 1/2 mins left in the period Danny Briere scored his 1st of the series on a slapshot fro the top of the circle that beat Brodeur up high. After the period Briere said he "didn't even see the shot go in" that's a small window to get the shot off.
Brodeur's play is amazing, Flyers have take advantage of their chances.
Period Ends 2-1 PHI
Shots in 2nd: 12-8 PHI
Power Plays 1/4 PHI, 1/7 NJD
-3-
Flyers up by two at home going into the third, sounds good but this is the Flyers..
They calmed my nerves 4 minutes into the game with Danny "Car Bomb" goal. His second in as many games. A shot at the feet of Marty, something that Lavvy had preached coming into the series.
The Flyers crowd was into it and the team tlooked unstoppable.
The game was put to rest when Jeff Carter scored his second of the night on a slap shot during their power play.
Brodeur look a little shaken, probably because he just wanted to get out of there. Can't blame him, he's the reason the Devils have been in these past 2 games.
Game Ended 4 -1 PHI
Shots 31 - 28 NJD
Powerplay 2/8 PHI, 1/8
Boucher went 27 of 28, he kept this game out of the Devils reach.
Carter came on scoring his first 2 goals of the series, but now will get an MRI on his foot and will be out for game 5.
Carcillo had his second goal in as many games.
Philadelphia up 3-1, the teams travel to Newark.
Next game : Thursday @ 7:00 on CSN
-1-
The first period of Tuesday's game looked a lot like the opening period on Sunday. It started off with 3 straight Devils powerplays.
On their 3rd Ilya Kovalchuk took one of his 5 shots in the 1st and beat Brian Boucher. It was another point shot on the Powerplay.
The Flyers once again didn't let the penalties get in their head. killing them off and going right back on the attack. But there waiting for them was Devils Hall of Fame Goaltender Marty Brodeur to stop all 7 shots he saw that period.
As mentioned earlier Kovi got his 2nd goal of the series, 1st in G2 (EN), he also fired 5 shots on net, the devils total was 12. This could pan out to be the game he was waiting for.
End 1st 1-0 NJD
Shots 12-7 NJD
Powerplays 1/3 NJD, 0/1 PHL
-2-
The Flyers may not have scored in the 1st, but they did have plenty of chances and after killing their 3rd penalty took over the game.
This paid off when Jeff Carter scored from the slot, it was his 1st goal of the series.
Chances went back and forth for the majority of the period. And Boucher was quiet in making the saves he needed too.
With 2 1/2 mins left in the period Danny Briere scored his 1st of the series on a slapshot fro the top of the circle that beat Brodeur up high. After the period Briere said he "didn't even see the shot go in" that's a small window to get the shot off.
Brodeur's play is amazing, Flyers have take advantage of their chances.
Period Ends 2-1 PHI
Shots in 2nd: 12-8 PHI
Power Plays 1/4 PHI, 1/7 NJD
-3-
Flyers up by two at home going into the third, sounds good but this is the Flyers..
They calmed my nerves 4 minutes into the game with Danny "Car Bomb" goal. His second in as many games. A shot at the feet of Marty, something that Lavvy had preached coming into the series.
The Flyers crowd was into it and the team tlooked unstoppable.
The game was put to rest when Jeff Carter scored his second of the night on a slap shot during their power play.
Brodeur look a little shaken, probably because he just wanted to get out of there. Can't blame him, he's the reason the Devils have been in these past 2 games.
Game Ended 4 -1 PHI
Shots 31 - 28 NJD
Powerplay 2/8 PHI, 1/8
Boucher went 27 of 28, he kept this game out of the Devils reach.
Carter came on scoring his first 2 goals of the series, but now will get an MRI on his foot and will be out for game 5.
Carcillo had his second goal in as many games.
Philadelphia up 3-1, the teams travel to Newark.
Next game : Thursday @ 7:00 on CSN
Sunday
IonLS: Round 1 Game 3 - Bring it Home
Series tied at one the teams continue there battles at the Wach. The first game at home is always a big one. The Devils wanna come in and steal a road win just as the Flyers did on Wednesday. Game 3, Enjoy!
-1st-
Fast start outta the gate again by the Flyers. However this was quickly negated by a penalty call 1:20 in the 1st. Richards for hooking.
New Jersey only had one shot, that one however did get passed Boucher but was swatted outta the crease by Braydon Coburn.
20 seconds later Lappy gets called for a trip. Once again a good kill by Richy and Gagne only giving up one chance, to Zajac. The Wach stayed behind their boys despite the calls.
Moments after that kill another penalty was called against the Flyers, Timonen for a weak hook. This time the Devils took advantage with Rolston scoring on a shot from the point, his first of the playoffs.
Finally the Flyers got a call their way, Corrente high sticked Timonen. Timonen then took mtters into his own hands, making a beautiful pass to a streaking Claude Giroux in front for an easy tip in. in the rest of the period each team had another a powerplay, nothing coming out of them.
Period ended 1-1 goals by Rolston (1)(PP). Giroux (2)(PP)
Shots 8-5 PHI Faceoffs 14-4 PHI
PP NJD:1/4, PHI:1/2
-2nd-
1:00 in, Gagne bumps Frasier off the puck behind the Devils net, Carcillo picks it up and throws it infront to Richards for the chip over Brodeur's shoulder.
The Devils got another PP but the Flyers Pk did a great job clearing the front of the net and taking care of rebounds.
Flyers put on relentless forecheck, especially Giroux line, which led to many chances, one coming off the stick of Gagne where he beat Marty but hit the post.
Flyers, having all of these chances but nothing to show for it, get called for interference. Brian Rolston on a identical play, even with zubrus screening in front again, to his first goal ties the game up at 2.
Period ended tied at 2. Goals by Rolston (2)(PP), Richards (2)
PP NJD: 2/6, PHI: 1/2
-3rd-
Hot off a penalty kill to start the 3rd the Flyers fire shot after shot yet Brodeur is there on all of them. He kept him in this game as the Flyers forecheck continue to force Nj's defense to turn pucks over.
Brodeur kept it up robbing Gagne and Richards at the side of the net from the seat of his pants on a Flyer PP. Then robbing Briere on a 2 on 1 with Hartnell in the splits to keep the game tied at 2.
Period ended tied at 2. No scoring.
Flyers outshot the Devils 12-3 in the 3rd.
-Overtime-
Flyers come out with jump , but still know the toughest part is beating Brodeur.
Giroux keeps his strong game going by feeding JVR a pass behind the D, but was poked away by Brodeur. However there was a penalty behind the play as Clarkson will make his 3rd trip to the box.
On the PP, Richards with a wrap around stopped once by Brodeur. Got his own rebound and threw it cross crease to a wide open Daniel Carcillo for the tap in. Flyers Win!
Game ends 3-2 thanks to Carcillo. Flyers take a 2 to 1 lead in the series.
Next Game Tuesday at 7:30 on CSN.
-1st-
Fast start outta the gate again by the Flyers. However this was quickly negated by a penalty call 1:20 in the 1st. Richards for hooking.
New Jersey only had one shot, that one however did get passed Boucher but was swatted outta the crease by Braydon Coburn.
20 seconds later Lappy gets called for a trip. Once again a good kill by Richy and Gagne only giving up one chance, to Zajac. The Wach stayed behind their boys despite the calls.
Moments after that kill another penalty was called against the Flyers, Timonen for a weak hook. This time the Devils took advantage with Rolston scoring on a shot from the point, his first of the playoffs.
Finally the Flyers got a call their way, Corrente high sticked Timonen. Timonen then took mtters into his own hands, making a beautiful pass to a streaking Claude Giroux in front for an easy tip in. in the rest of the period each team had another a powerplay, nothing coming out of them.
Period ended 1-1 goals by Rolston (1)(PP). Giroux (2)(PP)
Shots 8-5 PHI Faceoffs 14-4 PHI
PP NJD:1/4, PHI:1/2
-2nd-
1:00 in, Gagne bumps Frasier off the puck behind the Devils net, Carcillo picks it up and throws it infront to Richards for the chip over Brodeur's shoulder.
The Devils got another PP but the Flyers Pk did a great job clearing the front of the net and taking care of rebounds.
Flyers put on relentless forecheck, especially Giroux line, which led to many chances, one coming off the stick of Gagne where he beat Marty but hit the post.
Flyers, having all of these chances but nothing to show for it, get called for interference. Brian Rolston on a identical play, even with zubrus screening in front again, to his first goal ties the game up at 2.
Period ended tied at 2. Goals by Rolston (2)(PP), Richards (2)
PP NJD: 2/6, PHI: 1/2
-3rd-
Hot off a penalty kill to start the 3rd the Flyers fire shot after shot yet Brodeur is there on all of them. He kept him in this game as the Flyers forecheck continue to force Nj's defense to turn pucks over.
Brodeur kept it up robbing Gagne and Richards at the side of the net from the seat of his pants on a Flyer PP. Then robbing Briere on a 2 on 1 with Hartnell in the splits to keep the game tied at 2.
Period ended tied at 2. No scoring.
Flyers outshot the Devils 12-3 in the 3rd.
-Overtime-
Flyers come out with jump , but still know the toughest part is beating Brodeur.
Giroux keeps his strong game going by feeding JVR a pass behind the D, but was poked away by Brodeur. However there was a penalty behind the play as Clarkson will make his 3rd trip to the box.
On the PP, Richards with a wrap around stopped once by Brodeur. Got his own rebound and threw it cross crease to a wide open Daniel Carcillo for the tap in. Flyers Win!
Game ends 3-2 thanks to Carcillo. Flyers take a 2 to 1 lead in the series.
Next Game Tuesday at 7:30 on CSN.
Saturday
IonLS: Round1 Game 2 - Evened up
From this point on with my Recaps i'll be giving a brief recap of each period, a few facts from each game and analysis. Enjoy!
-1st-
The Flyers started slow and New Jersey took advantage scoring their 1st goal Short handed. Elias to Zac Parise of of a Tunrover at the offensive blueline by Matt Carle.
Claude Giroux had a great start and answer back with a great pass back post to hit Asham for the goal. JVR screened Brodeur so he wasn't able to find the pass as quick.
Asham was on and after serving a 2 min penalty which led to a 4 on 4, he went on a breakaway and sent Clarkson to the Box.
Momentum through the First was swing back and forth. But the Flyers grabbed a strangle hold on it with 4 mins left in the period. With their second PowerPlay goal in the series, Matt Carle found a rebound at the top of the cirlce and fired it in on Brodeur where Giroux deflected it 5 hole.
Period ended 2 -1 Flyers, Goals by Parise (SH) , Asham, Giroux (PP)
Shots were 11-7 NJD, Powerplays were 1/2 Phi, 0/2 Devils
Storylines:
Boucher making some great saves including many rebounds showing great recovery and making a great save on Parise all alone in front.
Claude Giroux had a goal and an assist and logged 5:11 Ice time.
Devils Elias and Parise playing very well on PK and EvStr
-2nd-
The second period saw a strong start by Giroux's line, but then the Devils took over. Colin White's shot from the point hit off Ryan Parent and trickled in past Boucher.
Kovi was still aggravited despite getting an assist on the game tieing goal and slashed Richards after a draw where he was josling with Powe.
Out of the box Kovi had some great chances, all turned away by Boucher. Boucher looked great saving shot after shot and being the most aware on the ice at some points.
Colin White seemed to have a target on Giroux, throwing Giroux head first into the boards then interferring him behind the play.
Elias and Parise were deadly on the PK, and then they shifted thier focus to the PowerPlay. Elias made a great play to find Andy greene lurking in front to put the Devils up by one.
After the goal the Devils were pounding the pressure with a great shift by Brian Rolston's line.
Boucher was keeping the Flyers in it after their defensecouldn't keep the puck away from the Devils forecheck.
Powe and Kovi went at it again this time each receiving 2 mins, 4 on 4. Then Greene got called 2 mins for holding. 4 0n 3.
We saw a much different look on this Flyers PP, Pronger was infront of the net giving Brodeur nothing to look at. Timonen finally put the puck on net and big Pronger redirected it in on Brodeur. 3-3 on Pronger's second goal from inside the crease this series.
Period ended 3-3. Goals by White, Greene(PP), Pronger(PP).
Powerplay 1/1 NJD, 1/4 Phi
Pronger after the Period said "Bouch is keeping us in it."
-3rd-
Carts line started off the period getting some good look, but this time with JVR on the wing in place a Hartnell. Flyers had all the chance 5 mins in but Brodeur finally settled in and was his Hall of Fame self.
White got a penalty once again, but the Flyers couldn't do anything with the PP and were now 2/7.
New Jersey was suprisingly playing very undiscipline. With 4 of their 7 penalties away from the play.
Brodeur kept up his play saving Carcillo on a wrap around and then Lappy in front all alone. Chance were going back and forth.
The Devils made the most of theirs with Zubrus's goal tapping in a rebound in front. Devils lead Game 4-3.
Flyers come charging back and pull Boucher, soon after Carter got a beautiful chance alone in the high slot and fanned, broke his stick and of all people Ilya Kovalchuk took the puck down and scored in the empty netter.
Devils win 5-3.
Shots were 33-29 NJD in the end. Powerplays were 1/3 NJD, 2/7 Phi.
I'll take credit for the loss as moments before Zubrus's goal i tweeted, "Just starting to hear Zubrus's name, he's been a no show since G1" ...OUCH
-1st-
The Flyers started slow and New Jersey took advantage scoring their 1st goal Short handed. Elias to Zac Parise of of a Tunrover at the offensive blueline by Matt Carle.
Claude Giroux had a great start and answer back with a great pass back post to hit Asham for the goal. JVR screened Brodeur so he wasn't able to find the pass as quick.
Asham was on and after serving a 2 min penalty which led to a 4 on 4, he went on a breakaway and sent Clarkson to the Box.
Momentum through the First was swing back and forth. But the Flyers grabbed a strangle hold on it with 4 mins left in the period. With their second PowerPlay goal in the series, Matt Carle found a rebound at the top of the cirlce and fired it in on Brodeur where Giroux deflected it 5 hole.
Period ended 2 -1 Flyers, Goals by Parise (SH) , Asham, Giroux (PP)
Shots were 11-7 NJD, Powerplays were 1/2 Phi, 0/2 Devils
Storylines:
Boucher making some great saves including many rebounds showing great recovery and making a great save on Parise all alone in front.
Claude Giroux had a goal and an assist and logged 5:11 Ice time.
Devils Elias and Parise playing very well on PK and EvStr
-2nd-
The second period saw a strong start by Giroux's line, but then the Devils took over. Colin White's shot from the point hit off Ryan Parent and trickled in past Boucher.
Kovi was still aggravited despite getting an assist on the game tieing goal and slashed Richards after a draw where he was josling with Powe.
Out of the box Kovi had some great chances, all turned away by Boucher. Boucher looked great saving shot after shot and being the most aware on the ice at some points.
Colin White seemed to have a target on Giroux, throwing Giroux head first into the boards then interferring him behind the play.
Elias and Parise were deadly on the PK, and then they shifted thier focus to the PowerPlay. Elias made a great play to find Andy greene lurking in front to put the Devils up by one.
After the goal the Devils were pounding the pressure with a great shift by Brian Rolston's line.
Boucher was keeping the Flyers in it after their defensecouldn't keep the puck away from the Devils forecheck.
Powe and Kovi went at it again this time each receiving 2 mins, 4 on 4. Then Greene got called 2 mins for holding. 4 0n 3.
We saw a much different look on this Flyers PP, Pronger was infront of the net giving Brodeur nothing to look at. Timonen finally put the puck on net and big Pronger redirected it in on Brodeur. 3-3 on Pronger's second goal from inside the crease this series.
Period ended 3-3. Goals by White, Greene(PP), Pronger(PP).
Powerplay 1/1 NJD, 1/4 Phi
Pronger after the Period said "Bouch is keeping us in it."
-3rd-
Carts line started off the period getting some good look, but this time with JVR on the wing in place a Hartnell. Flyers had all the chance 5 mins in but Brodeur finally settled in and was his Hall of Fame self.
White got a penalty once again, but the Flyers couldn't do anything with the PP and were now 2/7.
New Jersey was suprisingly playing very undiscipline. With 4 of their 7 penalties away from the play.
Brodeur kept up his play saving Carcillo on a wrap around and then Lappy in front all alone. Chance were going back and forth.
The Devils made the most of theirs with Zubrus's goal tapping in a rebound in front. Devils lead Game 4-3.
Flyers come charging back and pull Boucher, soon after Carter got a beautiful chance alone in the high slot and fanned, broke his stick and of all people Ilya Kovalchuk took the puck down and scored in the empty netter.
Devils win 5-3.
Shots were 33-29 NJD in the end. Powerplays were 1/3 NJD, 2/7 Phi.
I'll take credit for the loss as moments before Zubrus's goal i tweeted, "Just starting to hear Zubrus's name, he's been a no show since G1" ...OUCH
Thursday
IonLS: First Impressions - East
After all game ones are over in the East, here's a general outlook and keys for winning team to take the rest of the series. (Key fact +) Enjoy!
Pittsburgh - Ottawa:
High scoring as expected, as winning teaming in all regular season game had atleast 4 goals for. Role players stepped up and were vital parts of both teams offensive output. Defense on both sides are willing to sacrifice. Game 1 ended 5-4 Sens.
+Malkin, scoring 2, stays hot vs Sens. 5 goals during regular season.
Keys for Sens
-Realize their luck in Game 1.
-Continue to block lanes between Crosby and net, 2 shots in 21 mins in Game 1.
-Elliot must rebound from Pittsburgh goals, will be a high scoring series.
-Toughness while shot blocking and in corners has been their M.O.
New Jersey - Philadelphia:
Tight game, momentum swinging back and forth. Team defense will be a big factor moving forward, on Pronger's goal and Zajac's goal both plays originated from the points. Game 1 ended 2-1 Flyers.
+Pronger now has 1 goal and 7 assists in 7 games vs Devils this season.
Keys for Flyers
-Boucher will have to continue to play as strong as he's been playing recently.
-Penalty Kill was outstanding in Game 1 (NJD PP - 0/5), will have to continue.
-Keep Kovi's shots to the outside, makes his living in and around the slot. (4 shots in Game 1, 1 in slot)
-Get Gagne going, he's the all time scoring leader vs Brodeur in regular season.
Washington - Montreal:
Both fast teams, they like a quick style of play. Teams seemed very famillar despite only meeting 4 time during regular season. Game 1 ended 3-2 OT Montreal.
+Plekanec backs up his talk beating Theodore in OT.
Keys for Habs
-Keep Ovi off net, 0 shots in 25 minutes of play in Game 1.
-Halak saved 45 of 47 shots, he established himself as #1 and is backing it up.
-Smart defensive puck decisions, Caps forecheck feed off unforced errors.
-Quick, small offense have to take advantage of the holes they will get in Caps D.
Boston - Buffalo:
Just as expected, a defensively fought game. Buffalo fans were jumping, expect the same when the series turns to Boston. Both teams have quick offensive schemes, defenses will have to adjust. Game 1 ended 2-1 Buffalo.
Keys for Sabres
-Miller Time, Miller went 38 of 39 he's one of the best and is playing like it.
-Tyler Myers played over 23 minutes in his 1st playoff game, 3rd to only Montador and Lydman.
-Explosive offense led to a lot of chances ;ate in 3rd, look for that to keep up.
^Picture - Rod Brind'Amour scored a goal in all but one series openers during the Cane's post season run in '06, including the Stanley Cup Final.
Wednesday
Ice on Lord Stanley - Round1 Game1: Quick Out of The Gate
Going into this game we knew the stats, the Flyers had the Devils number, but we were unsure of how that would translate to the post season. Here we go:
-1st Period-
From the start the Flyers had jump, the question was if they could keep it up. They did up until a tremendous PK by the Devils that included 5 icings by the Devils PK, which ended with Timonen taking a interference penalty on Parise.
From that point on it was Boucher's night. He made some big saves, one especially on Kovalchuk while being screened. He went on to make many saves tongith while being screened. Bouch looked a lot more focus, confident and seemed to have settled in also using his angles very well. Hartnell even drew a penalty.
The period was very even match a lot of back and forth play. Until about the 10 minute mark then it seemed as though the Flyers had their hands full with the suddenly offensive minded Devils. The Flyers on the back of Bocuher got out of the period, weathered the storm.
+Period ended 0-0.
Giroux said after the period: We need to play more disciplent and need to play better.
Shots were 9 to 4 Devils, Power Plays - NJD 0/2, PHI 0/1
-2nd Period-
Zubrus took a penalty for hooking 8 minutes in, which the Flyers immediatly captiallized on. Pronger scored on a tap in infront of the net, assists went to Richy and Gagne. That was big to take the lead on the road and to score the first goal of the series.
The shift after Zubrus had a chance on a 2 on 1 but Bouch was a tad quicker getting over in time to stop the one-timer.
The Devils picked up their play from that point on, pressuring a lot more than earlier in the period. The Flyers had success using long stretch passes and quick break outs to trying to catch the Devils D pinching. This mixed with tough pressure put on by Flyers fore-checkers led the Flyers to their Second goal. Devils defenseman Martin Skoula turned the puck over at the top of the circles, where Lappy was right in position to take control of the puck and send a great pass over to Richy for a big slapper over the glove of Brodeur.
Bouch looked solid not giving up an bad rebounds, something that had killed him during the final stretch of the Regular Season. He also not panicing, covering the puck when in doubt.
+Period ended 2-0 Flyers, Goals by Pronger(PP) and Richards.
-3rd Period-
Flyers are 30-1-3 when leading after 3 periods during regualr season.
Devils came out of the gate strong especially their line of Elias Kovi and Zubrus. 2 minutes into the period Oscar Bartulis, who was playing his first game after missing the last 4 games of the season due to a groin injury, took a high sticking penalty that drew blood = 4 minutes Power Play for Devils.
Blair Betts and Ian Laperriere took over from that point on and played almost all of the 4 minutes, only changed once. Boucher was playing sharp and being calm and cool while under the pressure of the Devils PP. Then 2 minutes later the PKers were called on again, and once again an easy kill anchored by Betts, Lappy, Pronger and Carle.
With a little under 3 minutes left Travis Zajac took a slap shot from th point that came bouncing in on Boucher and found a hole between his leg and arm. The Devils then went on to pull Brodeur and put on a tremedous amount of pressure. Zajac got the puck off of a rebound in front and tapped it back toward the net where Boucher swipped at the puck covering it up with 10.2 seconds left. On the following draw Carter last but Richy chipped the puck out of the zone, and sealed Game 1 for the Flyers.
+Period Ended 2-1 Flyers, Goal by Parise
Shots on goal: 24-14 Devils. Power plays - 0/2 NJD, 0/1 PHI (Total- 0/4 NJD, 1/3 PHI)
Boucher spoke after the game saying: "We wanted the first win, we got it." and when asked what he changed he said "I am who i am, you battle and what happens, happens"
Ed Snyder also spoke of Boucher after the game saying: "Bouch was great, this guy's back!"
Player of the game undoubtly went to Brian Boucher who went 23 for 24 and picked up his first playoff win since 2000, which he got up while playing with the Flyers.
Betts and Laperriere were also vital as the devils got 6 penalty minutes in the final frame. Betts logged 15:15 minutes (4:55 on PK) while Lappy logged 15:53 (4:43 on PK)
Matt Carle played a great game, logging over 27 minutes (5:29 on PK)
Flyers have a 1-0 lead on the series next game is Friday @7:30
-1st Period-
From the start the Flyers had jump, the question was if they could keep it up. They did up until a tremendous PK by the Devils that included 5 icings by the Devils PK, which ended with Timonen taking a interference penalty on Parise.
From that point on it was Boucher's night. He made some big saves, one especially on Kovalchuk while being screened. He went on to make many saves tongith while being screened. Bouch looked a lot more focus, confident and seemed to have settled in also using his angles very well. Hartnell even drew a penalty.
The period was very even match a lot of back and forth play. Until about the 10 minute mark then it seemed as though the Flyers had their hands full with the suddenly offensive minded Devils. The Flyers on the back of Bocuher got out of the period, weathered the storm.
+Period ended 0-0.
Giroux said after the period: We need to play more disciplent and need to play better.
Shots were 9 to 4 Devils, Power Plays - NJD 0/2, PHI 0/1
-2nd Period-
Zubrus took a penalty for hooking 8 minutes in, which the Flyers immediatly captiallized on. Pronger scored on a tap in infront of the net, assists went to Richy and Gagne. That was big to take the lead on the road and to score the first goal of the series.
The shift after Zubrus had a chance on a 2 on 1 but Bouch was a tad quicker getting over in time to stop the one-timer.
The Devils picked up their play from that point on, pressuring a lot more than earlier in the period. The Flyers had success using long stretch passes and quick break outs to trying to catch the Devils D pinching. This mixed with tough pressure put on by Flyers fore-checkers led the Flyers to their Second goal. Devils defenseman Martin Skoula turned the puck over at the top of the circles, where Lappy was right in position to take control of the puck and send a great pass over to Richy for a big slapper over the glove of Brodeur.
Bouch looked solid not giving up an bad rebounds, something that had killed him during the final stretch of the Regular Season. He also not panicing, covering the puck when in doubt.
+Period ended 2-0 Flyers, Goals by Pronger(PP) and Richards.
Lappy says after period : the team is all on the same page.
Shots on goal - 15 to 12 NJD. PowerPlays - 1/1 PHI, None NJD-3rd Period-
Flyers are 30-1-3 when leading after 3 periods during regualr season.
Devils came out of the gate strong especially their line of Elias Kovi and Zubrus. 2 minutes into the period Oscar Bartulis, who was playing his first game after missing the last 4 games of the season due to a groin injury, took a high sticking penalty that drew blood = 4 minutes Power Play for Devils.
Blair Betts and Ian Laperriere took over from that point on and played almost all of the 4 minutes, only changed once. Boucher was playing sharp and being calm and cool while under the pressure of the Devils PP. Then 2 minutes later the PKers were called on again, and once again an easy kill anchored by Betts, Lappy, Pronger and Carle.
With a little under 3 minutes left Travis Zajac took a slap shot from th point that came bouncing in on Boucher and found a hole between his leg and arm. The Devils then went on to pull Brodeur and put on a tremedous amount of pressure. Zajac got the puck off of a rebound in front and tapped it back toward the net where Boucher swipped at the puck covering it up with 10.2 seconds left. On the following draw Carter last but Richy chipped the puck out of the zone, and sealed Game 1 for the Flyers.
+Period Ended 2-1 Flyers, Goal by Parise
Shots on goal: 24-14 Devils. Power plays - 0/2 NJD, 0/1 PHI (Total- 0/4 NJD, 1/3 PHI)
Boucher spoke after the game saying: "We wanted the first win, we got it." and when asked what he changed he said "I am who i am, you battle and what happens, happens"
Ed Snyder also spoke of Boucher after the game saying: "Bouch was great, this guy's back!"
Player of the game undoubtly went to Brian Boucher who went 23 for 24 and picked up his first playoff win since 2000, which he got up while playing with the Flyers.
Betts and Laperriere were also vital as the devils got 6 penalty minutes in the final frame. Betts logged 15:15 minutes (4:55 on PK) while Lappy logged 15:53 (4:43 on PK)
Matt Carle played a great game, logging over 27 minutes (5:29 on PK)
Flyers have a 1-0 lead on the series next game is Friday @7:30
Monday
Eastern Conf. Bracket: Round 1
I'll probably be doing this for every round going forward. Just a short description and players to watch for in the playoff round to come. Enjoy!
1-Washington vs 8-Montreal
Regular season record is tied 2-2, and 3 of the games were 1 goal games with one being settled in the Shootout. The other game had a 2 point differential. This series while at first glance may look like a cake walk for the Caps, when taking a closer look seems like a great 1st round matchup.
Washington:
+Eric Fehr has a goal in 3 of the 4 games, 1 goal in both wins.
+Brooks Laich got a hat trick in their most recent meeting, February 10th.
+Alex Ovechkin has only 1 goal in the 4 games but he also has 3 assists.
Montreal:
+Thomas Plekanec has 4 goals and 1 assist in 4 games.
+Travis Moen has 2 goals and 1 assist in the 4 games.
+Carrie Price has played all 4 games for the habs letting in a total of 14 goals.
2-New Jersey vs 7-Philadelphia
Flyers won the regular season series going 5-1-0, only loss came in Newark. Broudeur hasn't seem to be able to get his act together when he plays Philly. These teams have a pretty big rivalry and this series should be a must watch.
New Jersey:
+In 5 games Patrick Elias has 2 goals and 3 assists.
+Brian Rolston has 1 goal and 4 assists.
+Kovi has only 2 goals in 5 games vs the Flyers this season.
Philadelphia:
+Giroux has 7 pts against the Devils (1goals,6assist).
+In 4 games Simon Gagne has 2 goals and 2 assists.
+Chris Pronger tallied 7 assists in the season series.
+Brian Boucher 1 win and 1 loss, allowing 1 goal in the win and 4 goals in the loss.
3-Buffalo vs 6-Boston
Division rivalry right here. Bruins won the season series going 4-2-0. Despite the fact that there were only 25 goals scored between the two teams this one should get nasty as two underdog rivals collide. Defense and Goaltending should be the theme.
Buffalo:
+Tyler Myers had 2 goals and 3 assists in 6 games vs the Bruins this season.
+Derek Roy leads the sabres with 3 goals in the season series.
+Thomas Vanek had 1 goal in 6 games vs Boston this season but has 5 goals in his last two games.
Boston:
+Zdeno Chara had 1 goal and 6 assists vs Sabres this year.
+Tuunka Rask has had every win going 4-1-0 vs the Sabres.
+Milan Lucic had 3 goals to lead the Bruins vs the Sabres this season.
4-Pittsburgh vs 5-Ottawa
1st round rematch from 2 years ago, that series saw a flailing Senators team get blown out and sweep in 4 games to the Penguins. These are two different teams that split the season series at 2 games a piece. With the winning team scoring atleast 4 goals this series should be a exciting shootout.
Pittsburgh:
+Rocket Richard winner Sidney Crosby didn't have a goal and was a -3 thorugh the 4 games vs Ottawa this season
+Evgeni Malkin had 5 goals including a hat trick December 23rd
+Jordan Staal had 2 goals and 2 assists
Ottawa:
+ Brian Elliot only played 1 game vs Pens going 22-23 in the 4-1 win
+In 3 games Nick Foligno has 3 pts, 1goal 2 assists
+Mike Fisher has 1 goal and 3 assists
+Jason Spezza has only a goal and an assists in 3 games vs the Pens
1-Washington vs 8-Montreal
Regular season record is tied 2-2, and 3 of the games were 1 goal games with one being settled in the Shootout. The other game had a 2 point differential. This series while at first glance may look like a cake walk for the Caps, when taking a closer look seems like a great 1st round matchup.
Washington:
+Eric Fehr has a goal in 3 of the 4 games, 1 goal in both wins.
+Brooks Laich got a hat trick in their most recent meeting, February 10th.
+Alex Ovechkin has only 1 goal in the 4 games but he also has 3 assists.
Montreal:
+Thomas Plekanec has 4 goals and 1 assist in 4 games.
+Travis Moen has 2 goals and 1 assist in the 4 games.
+Carrie Price has played all 4 games for the habs letting in a total of 14 goals.
2-New Jersey vs 7-Philadelphia
Flyers won the regular season series going 5-1-0, only loss came in Newark. Broudeur hasn't seem to be able to get his act together when he plays Philly. These teams have a pretty big rivalry and this series should be a must watch.
New Jersey:
+In 5 games Patrick Elias has 2 goals and 3 assists.
+Brian Rolston has 1 goal and 4 assists.
+Kovi has only 2 goals in 5 games vs the Flyers this season.
Philadelphia:
+Giroux has 7 pts against the Devils (1goals,6assist).
+In 4 games Simon Gagne has 2 goals and 2 assists.
+Chris Pronger tallied 7 assists in the season series.
+Brian Boucher 1 win and 1 loss, allowing 1 goal in the win and 4 goals in the loss.
3-Buffalo vs 6-Boston
Division rivalry right here. Bruins won the season series going 4-2-0. Despite the fact that there were only 25 goals scored between the two teams this one should get nasty as two underdog rivals collide. Defense and Goaltending should be the theme.
Buffalo:
+Tyler Myers had 2 goals and 3 assists in 6 games vs the Bruins this season.
+Derek Roy leads the sabres with 3 goals in the season series.
+Thomas Vanek had 1 goal in 6 games vs Boston this season but has 5 goals in his last two games.
Boston:
+Zdeno Chara had 1 goal and 6 assists vs Sabres this year.
+Tuunka Rask has had every win going 4-1-0 vs the Sabres.
+Milan Lucic had 3 goals to lead the Bruins vs the Sabres this season.
4-Pittsburgh vs 5-Ottawa
1st round rematch from 2 years ago, that series saw a flailing Senators team get blown out and sweep in 4 games to the Penguins. These are two different teams that split the season series at 2 games a piece. With the winning team scoring atleast 4 goals this series should be a exciting shootout.
Pittsburgh:
+Rocket Richard winner Sidney Crosby didn't have a goal and was a -3 thorugh the 4 games vs Ottawa this season
+Evgeni Malkin had 5 goals including a hat trick December 23rd
+Jordan Staal had 2 goals and 2 assists
Ottawa:
+ Brian Elliot only played 1 game vs Pens going 22-23 in the 4-1 win
+In 3 games Nick Foligno has 3 pts, 1goal 2 assists
+Mike Fisher has 1 goal and 3 assists
+Jason Spezza has only a goal and an assists in 3 games vs the Pens
Sunday
Flyers Playoff Outlook
Flyers' shootout win today sealed their fate as the number 7 seed and with the Devils beating the Sabres today, the Flyers will play the Devils in the 1st round. Here's a look at some of Philly's storylines heading into playoffs: Goaltending
+Boucher's GAA since March 28th is 3.00, one game against NJ Devils he was 32-33
Offense
+Gagne has 1pt in last 5 games but on Mar. 28th against the Devils he had 1goal and 1assist.
+Carcillo has a goal and assist in the 4 games he played in March and has also been constantly feeding Richards and Gagne with passes .
+Briere has 2 goals and 1 assist in 5 games in April. And two of those points, a goal and an assist, came vs the Rangers the past two games.
+Giroux has 6pts in his last 6 games, and 7pts (1 goal, 6 assists) in 6 games vs Devils this season.
Defense
+Pronger recently was awarded the Bobby Clarke Award for MVP in the Flyers organization. He immediatly raised his play with a momentum changing hit late in the 2nd period.
Monday
The New Dan Carcillo
We all remember that game against the Caps, December 5th, when Carcillo being Carcillo got 29 penalty minutes and a game misconduct. The Flyers went on to lose 8-2. Carcillo was looked at as nothing but a goon and some even thought that he shouldn't be in the line-up.
Before that incident Danny had 5 points (2 goals, 3 assits). Since then he's become a different person or maybe the person that Flyers GM Paul Holmgren sought after during the Trade Deadline last year. He has put up 16 points (10 goals, 6 assists) since.
His reputation has been the biggest oppstical in his way, recently he had been suspended 2 games for a incidental cross check. Although the questionable ruling, he kept his head and returned to score his 16th goal against Detroit on Sunday that undoubtly set the tone for the Flyers, who came out on top 4-3.
Carcillo seems to be very close to returning to his 2007-2008 form where he put up 24 points in 57 games and to be seen as a talented power-forward.
Umberger's Right on being Wrong
After their 3-2 loss on Saturday to Washington, Columbus Blue Jackets Center RJ Umberger gave his opinion on the Capitals team.
Saying "They play the wrong way. They want to be moving all the time. They float around in their zone, looking for breakaways and odd-man rushes." Also "A good defensive team is going to beat them (in the playoffs). If you eliminate your turnovers and keep them off the power play, they're going to get frustrated because they're in their zone a lot."
Umberger is correct in this way of thinking, the Caps are 3-11-3 when scoring under 3 goals. If a playoff oppenent can force a low scoring game with the League's highest scoring team i like their odds of shutting down Ovechkin and company.
Saying "They play the wrong way. They want to be moving all the time. They float around in their zone, looking for breakaways and odd-man rushes." Also "A good defensive team is going to beat them (in the playoffs). If you eliminate your turnovers and keep them off the power play, they're going to get frustrated because they're in their zone a lot."
Umberger is correct in this way of thinking, the Caps are 3-11-3 when scoring under 3 goals. If a playoff oppenent can force a low scoring game with the League's highest scoring team i like their odds of shutting down Ovechkin and company.
Thursday
Fresh Ice Cuts
Posts:
March 20, 2011
Next one set for Friday barring any major story lines following the Flyers Pens game on Thursday.