The playoffs are less than a week away. After a almost disastrous season bouncing around the bubble, the Flyers found their stride and are projected 4th in the Eastern Conference. Their opponent in the first round is yet to be determined but should be one of the New York Islanders or Florida Panthers. Either way they will face off against a tough high scoring opponent. Philly will hope to rely on their tight defensive structure and depth scoring to lead them deep into the post season. Martin Jones, barring injury, will get the call between the pipes while Justus Annunen handles the final two games of the season. Flyers management is hoping to see the top six finish the season strong. Filip Zadina is riding a four game point streak but most impressive is Evander Kane's 10 points through his last 8 contests. The biggest area for immediate improvement is the Flyers dismal 9.8% power-play, luckily their penalty kill sits 4th in the league at 88.3% to bring some balance to the special teams numbers.
The final two spots in the East remain undecided while the West wrapped up their top 8 race yesterday. Boston, Carolina and Pittsburgh remain hopeful as Ottawa and Toronto stumble to the finish line.
12/30/2023 - 207 words
