Flyers Survive Late Push By Avalanche

The Philadelphia Flyers ended a two game losing streak Monday night at the Wells Fargo Center. Beating the Colorado Avalanche 5-3.

One thing the Flyers have not lacked, even on their 10-game losing streak, has been effort. But, their confidence has been lacking as of late.

“Confidence is hard to teach, offensively,” John Tortorellla said pregame. “We’re going to lock in the other (off-puck) part. That’s encouraging to me (based on recent play) because that’s the hardest part.”

The Flyers confidence has been gaining momentum every game over the past week.

In recent losses versus tough competition – Eastern Conference Champion Tampa Bay Lightning & Metro leading New Jersey Devils – John Tortorella has walked away impressed by the teams fight and effort. Leading to Tortorella fiercely saying “we played our asses off” after the Flyers 3-2 loss to the Devils.

Work effort is something that has been installed in the Flyers structure under John Tortorella since Day1 of training camp.

Tonight, even with the Colorado Avalanche ravished by injuries, the Stanley Cups champions are still a dangerous team. As seen by scoring the first goal just 17-seconds into the games first power-play.

Once again, for the 20th time this season, the Flyers were playing from behind after giving up the opening goal.

In the face of adversity, something that is not new to the Flyers, a response was needed. A response that came from the Flyers confidence that has been adding up over their recent strong play.

The Flyers would score three unanswered goals in a span of 16:30. All three goals coming from players that John Tortorella has been wanting more from.

Travis Sanheim, his 8th point in his last nine-games, scored his 3rd goal of the season.

Tanner Laczynski, who the Flyers sent to Lehigh to play more, scored his 2nd goal of the season.

Tony DeAngelo, whose minutes have been reduced over the past few games, scored his 4th goal of the season.

Carter Hart Responds

One player that has stood out all season is Carter Hart. But, on Saturday, Hart’s two mistakes in the 3rd period costed his team a chance to win the game.

Constantly after games John Tortorella has praised the work Hart puts in on a nightly basis. Tonight, was no different.

In need of a big save, Hart made it. In end of a momentum save, Hart made it.

Hart made 29-saves tonight against the Avalanche. None bigger than the three break-aways Hart faced.

Kevin Hayes Continues To Rack Up The Points

Kevin Hayes last few seasons have been ravished by injuries. Something that Hayes himself had zero control over.

Now, fully healthy for the first time in two seasons, Hayes is off to a great start to his season. Continuing to produce at a point per game.

With another assist tonight, Hayes now has 8-goals & 19-assists in 26-games so far this season.

Dating back to last season, Hayes has 15-goals & 34-assists in his last 54-games.

Loose Pucks…

1. Tanner Laczynski left the game in the 3rd period and did not return. Laczynski scored his 2nd goal of the season in the 1st period.
2. Travis Konecny picked up his 3rd goal in as many games since returning from his upper body injury.
3. Patrick Brown has been one of the Flyers best defensive players since returning to the lineup. Tonight, Brown had a game high 6-blocks.

Result : Avalanche 3 – Flyers 5 , WIN

Record :   9 – 12 – 5

Next Game : Wednesday 12/7 , Washington Capitals , Philadelphia PA , 7:00pm

PHOTO CREDIT: Mitchell Leff Getty Images