With or without Forsberg, I have concluded that my Flyers have a split personality. The big question is, which team shows up at the games now. The Lightning and Islanders beat them because they wanted it more yet I doubt either of them will make it to the playoffs when the season ends. Then they played very well in the last period against the Bruins, especially by having a 100% PK ratiing against the four penalties they had to work through.
When I was in Vegas, the Flyers were favored at every casino to win the Cup. Even over the Red Wings and Senators. After 20-some games, I think it will take a miracle for them get past the first round of the playoffs with their lack of will happening. They need Primeau back or someone really willing to lead and wear the C on his jersey (my vote would be Hatcher since he did it for Dallas and there is clearly a leadership gap). Then finally solidify the two A positions for good on two people I think who can grow into the role; Johnnson and Handzus are my choices.
On the upside, Sami Kapanen is back so we’ve regained some speed on the forwards and Eric Desjardins returned so we have more experience on defense too. Both players are strong penalty killers. The other solace factor is that we have 3 more games to play than the Rangers so we can come closer to winning first in the Atlantic.
We get a rematch with the Islanders tomorrow on their ice. I think the Flyers can beat them because they’re not Cup material this year. Then a gutted Devils team the day after. Finally, the week ends with a streak of opponents from the Western Conference. Personally, none of them are terribly interesting nor do the Flyers have any excuse to lose against the Predators, Flames, Oilers and Wild (in that order). With exception to the Predators, the remaining three are struggling duds from the Northwestern division. They should pick up 6 of 8 points here, but only if the Flyers from the victory over the Senators show up.