The Philadelphia Flyers were supposed to be one of the top teams in the East Division this season. However, that has just not been the case.
After starting the season on a good stretch, mainly because of their goal-tending, the Flyers are now getting a harsh sense of reality. A reality that seems to have no answer.
“If I could put a finger on it, I’d have fixed it already,” head coach Alain Vigneault said.
The Flyers have a problem. A problem that goes far beyond just one issue. Which may be the reason why Alain Vigneault can’t put his finger on the issue.
One of the main issues is their poor defense. Which isn’t just on their defensemen.
The root of the issue is because of their defensemen. But, its also their forwards not back-checking & their goalie’s, at the moment, not being able to make a save.
But, the main reason is the turnovers.
“We’re just turning over pucks and it’s going in the back of our net,” defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere said.
Since their 3-game winning streak after returning from Lake Tahoe, the Flyers have lost 7 of their last 11 games. In those seven loses, turnovers have played a huge part.
In all seven loses, the Flyers have at least 14 turnovers. Their most, 24, coming in Saturday’s blowout loss to the Islanders.
However, for some reason, the Flyers continue to deny this issue. Something that started with head coach Alain Vigneault’s comments just 10-days ago.
“I do think we’re trending in the right way,” Vigneault said after losing all three games to the Capitals at home. “Results-wise, maybe not. As far as playing the game as it should be permit you to win, I do think we’re trending in the right direction.”
That same sediment reappeared today. This time with Shayne Gostisbehere. Who has been a healthy scratch the past three games.
“I wouldn’t say we’re playing bad,” Gostisbehere said in reference to the team’s overall play. “We are making it harder on ourselves; Just not helping our own cause.”
The Philadelphia Flyers denial of their most obvious problem is continuing to be their biggest issue. An issue that will not solve itself until they admit it’s a problem.
PHOTO CREDIT : Bruce Bennett – Getty Images
