There’s no secret that the goal tending for the Flyers has been an issue for years. Repeatedly signing journeyman goaltenders has left the Flyers with no real long-term solution. After injuries left them with no other choice, the team has decided to give prospect Alex Lyon an opportunity to stabilize the position.
Last season he led the Lehigh Valley Phantoms to the Calder Cup, where, despite the loss, he averaged a .913 save percentage and a solid 2.75 GAA. Lyon is more than worthy of this opportunity; this could really be the guy the Flyers have been searching for. With so many questions surrounding Elliott and his health, the Flyers have no other choice but to look to the future. The Flyers forwards can run with the best in the NHL, so if they can figure out their goalie situation behind the mediocre defense, they could have a shot to turn this season around.
Elliott going down is obviously unfortunate, but the timing could be worse. With the Orange and Black once again having an inconsistent season, this move could get the Flyers moving in the right direction again. The goaltending committee Hakstol has been putting out since his arrival has not seemed to work at all.
Hakstol was asked about the recent scoring surges, “We’ve probably generated more offense in our last three games, than in the last five, We weren’t able to finish.”
With scoring less of a problem, focusing on the little things and how to help the young defenders and goaltender should be the focus for this team. If they can get consistent play night in and night out from the back end, The Flyers should be in a good position to compete for this division down the stretch.
Facing one of the NHL’s hottest teams tonight, Lyon will have his hands full for his first NHL start of the season. Buffalo has won six straight, highlighted by a 5 – 4 OT win over the Penguins in Pittsburgh. With goal scorers like Jack Eichel and Jeff Skinner, Lyon should see a healthy amount of shots this evening. With the Flyers outshooting their last three opponents while being outscored 11 – 6, Lyon can hopefully help in this category, giving the Flyers offense more confidence with Lyon between the pipes.
“They’ve got a lot of talent and skill, it’s gonna be a tough game, big challenge, we’ll be ready,” Said center Sean Couturier.
They cannot underestimate Buffalo, especially with this recent momentum. Hopefully the Broad Street Bullies come out swinging tonight, and goaltender Alex Lyon can have a big game, in what could be an impact win at this juncture in the season.