The Philadelphia Flyers sit three points out of the final Wild Card spot in the Eastern Conference with 18 games to play. They had big wins against Colorado and Florida before losing on Saturday night in overtime against the NHL leading Washington Capitals. Taking five out of a possible six points was a great start to a stretch run where points will be at a premium. Here’s a look inside the numbers.
26:
The number of road points the Flyers have on the season. Their current road record is 11-16-4. The Flyers play 10 of their final 18 on the road and need wins. It includes a three game trip that starts Tuesday and a four game trip starting March 21.
.969:
Flyers goalie Steve Mason’s save percentage this week. He stopped 94 of 97 shots going 2-0-1. He was by far the Flyers best player. Last season, he carried the Flyers into the playoffs and if they want to return to the post-season, they will need Mase again. All of this combined makes the signing of Michal Neuvirth even more questionable.
35:
Projected goals by Flyers leader and MVP Wayne Simmonds. This total would also eclipse the 32 he scored least season. He has been the Flyers most consistent and best player and when they need a goal, the Flyers get on the “Wayne Train.”
6:
The number of teams fighting for the final Wild Card spot in the East. The New York Islanders currently hold onto the eighth seed in the East with 71 points. The Toronto Maple Leafs, Florida Panthers, Tampa Bay Lightning, Buffalo Sabres and the Flyers are all within five points of the final spot. It’s going to come down to the final games.
87:
The Flyers are still on pace for 87 points on the season. Unfortunately, the four teams ahead of the Flyers are all on pace to eclipse that mark. The Flyers need to go on a run and got off to a good start with the week they had. They need to remain consistent to give themselves a shot.
Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
