The Lehigh Valley Phantoms suffered a tough week, losing three straight games to key opponents. On November 13th, the Phantoms dropped a morning game by a score of two to one against the Springfield Thunderbirds. The weekend did not hold any standings points for the Phantoms either, losing on Friday against the Binghamton Devils three to one. On Saturday, the Phantoms lost two to one to the Wilkes Barre Scranton Penguins. Overall, the Phantoms did not have a winning weekend, however there were some silver linings to their losses.
Phantoms Penalty Kill
Although the Phantoms were unable to convert a win this week, their Penalty Kill (PK) was rather successful. Against the Thunderbirds, the PK was perfect, killing off both shorthanded opportunities. Against the Devils and Penguins, only one powerplay goal was allowed in each contest, making the combined success of the Phantoms’ PK 7 out of 9 kills. Having a 77.8% success rate is very important for the Phantoms’ future success, as well as holding their opponents to smaller goal differentials. With games coming up against reigning Calder Cup champions, the Charlotte Checkers, the PK will be extremely crucial to the Phantoms’ success.
Alex Lyon
Goaltender Alex Lyon got the start between the pipes for two out of the Phantoms last three games, and held his ground in both of games. His season record is now 3-3-2, with a season save percentage of .923. Against Springfield, Lyon made 33 saves on 35 shots, and 23 saves on 23 shots against the Penguins. Lyon gave his teammates the best opportunity he could to stay in the game, holding them to a one-goal deficit in both of his starts, but the offense couldn’t help out his defensive performance.
Morgan Frost
Although Morgan Frost did not score in the most recent contests, he is a star for a different reason; on Monday morning, it was announced that Frost had been called up to the Phantoms’ NHL affiliate, the Philadelphia Flyers. Frost has 12 points in 16 games, with 5 goals and 7 assists. He has had extreme success with the Phantoms and will finally get an opportunity to showcase his talent in the NHL.
The Phantoms are back in action with a three game home-stand on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday against the Charlotte Checkers and the Belleville Senators.
Mandatory Credit – Alex McIntyre
