Flyers Help Blue Jackets Snap Losing Streak

Whenever the Flyers and Blue Jackets play each other, there is always a reunion taking place for more than one player on each team. Flyers forwards Jakub Voracek, R.J. Umberger, and goaltender Steve Mason came from Columbus via trade. In addition, Blue Jackets goaltender Sergei Bobrovski and forward Scott Hartnell both previously played for the Flyers. Friday night’s showdown between these two teams was significant because it was Scott Hartnell’s first game back at the Wells Fargo Center against the team he dedicated the prime of his career to. The Flyers were looking to continue their 3-game winning streak after having the past five nights off. While the banged-up Blue Jackets were looking to snap an 8-game losing streak. By the end of the night, one teams streak would be broken, and it turned out to be Columbus’s as they skated away with a 4-3 victory.

            Both teams fought hard for most of the night; but Columbus seemed to have a little more drive and determination to their style of play. As should be expected, the Flyers looked a little rusty after having the past five days consist of either rest or practice. Both teams looked fantastic on the power play as Columbus went 3 for 4 and Philadelphia officially went 2 for 3. I stress the word “officially” because the Flyers’ third goal was eventually entered as an “even-strength” goal even though there was around one-second left on the power play. The orange & black have looked incredible on special teams (especially at home). Although this is a great sign, I cannot help but wonder why the team cannot score like this 5-on-5? It is important to take advantage of power play opportunities; but the team cannot rely on special teams alone. They need to start producing more when teams are at even strength. The Flyers look to put another one in the win column as they head across the border to take on the Montreal Canadiens tonight. The last contest between these two teams still leaves a sour taste in my mouth and it is time for Philadelphia to come out and get some revenge.