Another Blow for the Flyers
In a disappointing turn of events, the Philadelphia Flyers fell to the Buffalo Sabres 5-2. Despite an impressive performance where they outshot the Sabres 40 to 15, the Flyers couldn't capitalize on their opportunities. This marks their fifth loss in the last six games, adding to the team's growing list of concerns.
Further compounding the Flyers' woes, goaltender Carter Hart was forced to leave the game early due to a mid-body injury. If Hart is sidelined for the upcoming rematch with the Sabres this Friday in Buffalo, Felix Ersson may have to step up as the starting goalie.
Sabres' Stellar Defense and Goaltending
Despite being significantly outshot, the Sabres were able to rely on the excellent play of their goaltender, Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, who saved 38 of the 40 shots he faced. "We locked down defensively," said Luukkonen after the game. "Even though they had a lot of shots, the defense was unreal in boxing out and blocking shots. It wasn't pretty but a win is a win."
The decisive goal came from Owen Power in the third period. Speaking about his contribution to the victory, Power said, "Tage put it in a good spot and dropped it. I just walked in and shot it. It's nice to get my first goal earlier than last year."
Flyers Struggling to Find Their Footing
"We started slow again. Gathered ourselves and I thought we played a pretty good hockey game from that point on," lamented Flyers' coach John Tortorella. Despite the apparent improvement in play as the game progressed, the Flyers were unable to overcome their slow start.
Scott Laughton echoed his coach's sentiments. "We played a pretty good game for 50 minutes and don't get the results, so go back to the drawing board," he said. The team will undoubtedly be looking for ways to turn their fortunes around in the rematch against the Sabres.
Looking Ahead
The upcoming rematch on Friday provides the Flyers with an opportunity to seek redemption. However, they will face a confident Sabres team that is riding high after their win. Sabres' coach Don Granato praised his team's effort saying, "It was a good reset for us going in tied into the third and we limited second chances on the net. This was a very competitive group we played against with pace."
With or without Carter Hart, the Flyers will need to regroup quickly and bring their A-game if they hope to break their losing streak. As for the Sabres, they will be looking to build on their recent success and continue their upward trajectory in the standings.