Flyers Come Out Flat Against Rivals

When I think of rivalry games, I think of all out dog fights that do not lose their entertainment value until the final horn sounds. When the Philadelphia Flyers came into Madison Square Garden to face-off against their 2^nd biggest rivals, the New York Rangers, every fan was expecting this kind of game.  I mean why wouldn't we? Flyers vs. Rangers games are always full-blown fights on the ice (both figuratively and literally). Well this game would be a complete disappointment to both Flyers Nation and your casual hockey fan.

            The men representing the Orange & Black not only played a poor game (minus Steve Mason), it was as if they never showed up in the first place. The Flyers have proven night in and night out that they are only as good as the effort Giroux and Voracek are able to put forth. There has been no other player who has been able to play consistently well in order to give the team more firepower on the offensive and defensive side of the puck. The Rangers were only able to make the final score 2-0 in their favor; but it might as well been 9-0. I truly feel bad for Steve Mason because he continues to display a valiant effort in net every game; but he (along with Giroux and Voracek) can only do so much. I know it might sound like a crazy theory but if a hockey team cannot score goals, they will not win hockey games.

            I know that we are still in the early parts of the season, and the injury bug has bitten the Flyers more than once; but one must start to wonder if this team does not have what it takes to be considered “playoff caliber”. Although it pains me to say it, I feel that way as both a fan and a “sports writer” (if I can be called that). The Flyers are currently on a 3-game losing streak where they have not looked good at all. They look to end this streak and hopefully start a new one as the Minnesota Wild come in to town tonight.