Photo Credits: FNG’s Rob Windfelder
The Philadelphia Flyers returned today for their first practice after the All Star break. There was no easing back in. John Tortorella ran a fast paced and energetic session for his well rested team. As far as the eye could tell they have not lost a step during the time off. It will be interesting to see them in contrast to the visiting Islanders Monday night.
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Back to Work
Kevin Hayes was back in town to rejoin his teammates after representing them at the All Star game. The team had his All Star jersey and gloves hanging in a stall in the Flyers locker room. Joel Farabee was asked about the return to play in this final stretch of the season. He said that the team was happy with their game before the break and hope to continue with that momentum. He repeated an often used phrase “we are a tougher team to play against”. Then he made reference to that wild Minnesota game before the break which really did seem to re-solidify their reputation.
Travis Konecny spoke about the useful timing of the week off. He said at this point in the season you start to feel it and the break was refreshing both physically and mentally. The team did look refreshed as they ran through a number of different drills. One of the drills really stood out. Tortorella had his staff move both nets to opposite ends of the same circle. He ran a series of 3 on 3 match-ups with 2 goalies in that small amount of space. That is really close quarters and things got pretty competitive. Being a Sunday afternoon there were a lot of Flyers Fans out to watch. Everyone was crowded down by the one circle. People were really getting into it which I’m sure added to the intensity a bit.
Wade Allison was back practicing with the team after missing the last game before the break. He left the Minnesota game after blocking a shot in the second period. Allison said he felt good skating and would be evaluated for possible clearance later in the day. The team has a mandatory morning skate on game-day tomorrow.
Drop the Puck!
Only 31 games to go! Flyers are at 500 coming out of the break. Hockey season gets back on the rails Monday night at The Farg. The Flyers face off against the New York Islanders at 7:00 PM. There is plenty of hockey to still left be played but we are now on the short side of the All Star break. With the way this Flyers season has been going almost any conclusion at this point would be believable. Hockey’s back! Bring it! Let’s Go Flyers!
21 wins in 51 games is not .500 in my book….