Carter Hart provides early birthday gift as Flyers beat Canadiens in Game 1 of 1st-round NHL playoff series

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title => "Carter Hart provides early birthday gift as Flyers beat Canadiens in Game 1 of 1st-round NHL playoff series"
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article_body => "<a href=\"http:\/\/scores.nbcsportsphiladelphia.com\/nhl\/boxscore.asp?gamecode=2020081215&home=15&vis=10&meta=true\" target=\"_blank\">BOX SCORE<\/a><\/p>\nCarter Hart will enjoy his birthday.<\/p>\nThe young netminder delivered a big performance Wednesday night to help the Flyers earn a 2-1 win over the Canadiens in Game 1 of their best-of-seven first-round playoff series at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto.<\/p>\nSo far, so good (in fact, really good) for Hart in his first taste of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.<\/p>\nJakub Voracek and Joel Farabee scored goals for the top-seeded Flyers, who are off to a 4-0-0 start in the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament and have yet to trail once.<\/p>\nOver their last 14 games (10 in the regular season, four in tournament), the Flyers are 13-1-0 and have outscored the opposition 52-23 (plus-29 goal differential). The lone loss was to the Bruins, who finished the regular season with an NHL-best 100 points.<\/p>\nWednesday was far from a picture-perfect performance but the Flyers did enough to grind it out, which they'll have to do at times against eighth-seeded Montreal.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">One down. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/EZJISrb9yv\">pic.twitter.com\/EZJISrb9yv<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293739378448244737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n <blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NHLFlyers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@NHLFlyers<\/a> won each of their first 4+ games in a postseason for the sixth time in franchise history. The other instances: 1974 (6-0) 1975 (7-0) 1978 (4-0) 1980 (6-0) 1985 (6-0)<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/hashtag\/NHLStats?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#NHLStats<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/hashtag\/StanleyCup?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#StanleyCup<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/TLjmJMp69H\">pic.twitter.com\/TLjmJMp69H<\/a><\/p>— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/PR_NHL\/status\/1293751547961266177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 In the first chapter of the Hart-Carey Price showdown, the youngster got the better of the veteran.<\/p>\nHart, who turned 22 years old at midnight, has been so steady early in games. He had to make only five saves in the opening frame but he hasn't allowed a first-period goal in his last seven games.<\/p>\nHe was a life saver with 16 second-period saves and finished with 27 stops on 28 shots.<\/p>\nThrough three games in the tournament, Hart is 3-0-0 with 84 saves on 87 shots. Can't ask for a better start from him. A major positive.<\/p>\nPrice made a save on Scott Laughton that you'll see all over ESPN's SportsCenter and denied 29 shots. The Flyers know he'll be a tough out.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">GOOD STICK CAREY \ud83e\udd2f<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/hashtag\/GoHabsGo?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#GoHabsGo<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/0apkZbtYbM\">pic.twitter.com\/0apkZbtYbM<\/a><\/p>— Canadiens Montr\u00e9al (@CanadiensMTL) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/CanadiensMTL\/status\/1293725591070552065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 After playing well following his jump to the first line in the round-robin finale with Voracek (undisclosed issue) out, Farabee stayed with Claude Giroux and Sean Couturier in Game 1.<\/p>\nThe 20-year-old rookie winger continued his productive response to the opportunity, scoring a massive goal 16 seconds after Shea Weber tied the game at 1-1 in the second period.<\/p>\nFarabee went to the net, deflected Travis Sanheim's shot and then pounded home the rebound \u2014 so timely given Montreal had totally swung the momentum in its favor, putting the Flyers on their heels.<\/p>\nFarabee should stay on that line until he gives the Flyers a reason to not keep him there. He has three points (two goals, one assist) over three games in the 24-team tournament.<\/p>\n<blockquote>He\u2019s been great for us,\" Ivan Provorov said postgame in a video interview. \"It\u2019s his first playoffs, but it doesn\u2019t look like it. He has poise, he\u2019s been making plays, he\u2019s been scoring and helping us big time. I think he deserves to play on that line and he contributes a lot. He\u2019s been going, I think he complements Coots and G really well.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">THAT \ud83d\udc4f WAS \ud83d\udc4f FAST \ud83d\udc4f Joel Farabee gets one back, Flyers lead 2-1. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/dQoNPUNoZ9\">pic.twitter.com\/dQoNPUNoZ9<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293723496527417345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 The Flyers delivered a pair of early positive signs:<\/p>\nThe power play struck on its first opportunity after going 0 for 11 through the three-game round robin. Provorov, who led all NHL defensemen in man advantage goals during the regular season with seven, blasted a shot from the point and Voracek must have just gotten a piece of it to hand the Flyers a 1-0 advantage.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">OFFICIAL SCORING CHANGE: Playoff Game 111<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/CanadiensMTL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@CanadiensMTL<\/a> at <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NHLFlyers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@NHLFlyers<\/a> Goal at 8:54 of first period now reads Jakub Voracek from Ivan Provorov and Claude Giroux. <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/hashtag\/NHLStats?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#NHLStats<\/a><\/p>— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/PR_NHL\/status\/1293755483740876802?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\nThe other positive was the ingredients to the goal. The Flyers went with a double screen on Price. Impeding the Montreal netminder's vision will be critical and the Flyers hammered home that point with Couturier and Voracek disrupting.<\/p>\nNot only is it an effective approach but it can also frustrate Price, who does not like being bumped or obstructed.<\/p>\nThe power play finished 1 for 3 and missed out on a chance to provide insurance in the third period. It didn't cost the Flyers.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Goal, scored. Lead, gained. Flyers up, 1-0. | <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/HerrsSnacks?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@HerrsSnacks<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/u4vkkFtwM0\">pic.twitter.com\/u4vkkFtwM0<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293706640999485442?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n <blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Carey Price was not happy about this. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/bhNYS8nIem\">pic.twitter.com\/bhNYS8nIem<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293710590108749827?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 The second period was troubling for the Flyers. They got a taste of their own medicine. Typically, the Flyers are a team that wants to wear down the opposition with its effort and north-south style. The Flyers are not the fastest team, but the way in which they play makes them tough to play against, which was a huge initiative entering their turnaround season.<\/p>\nMontreal completely took it to them in the middle stanza. At one point, the Flyers were pinned in their own end and had three failed attempts to clear the puck.<\/p>\nLeading up to the series opener, Flyers head coach Alain Vigneault warned that Montreal seldom slows down in its pace or energy, which can sneak up on teams if you let it.<\/p>\n\"That\u2019s a team with real good team speed, there\u2019s no doubt that they work extremely hard,\" Vigneault said in a video interview before the game. \"Those two areas, watching the four games in that Pittsburgh series, caught everybody\u2019s attention. They were extremely quick and extremely hard-working.\"<\/p>\nFortunately for the Flyers, Hart was strong and Farabee made his heads up play, allowing the Flyers to leave the second period with a 2-1 edge.<\/p>\n\u2022 Vigneault gave the Game 1 nod to Shayne Gostisbehere over Robert Hagg, who was the extra defenseman. Gostisbehere truly won his spot in the lineup with impressive work during camp, the exhibition game and one round-robin game.<\/p>\nHe wasn't as impactful against the Canadiens as he was in the 4-1 round-robin win over the Lightning and looked a little shaky in the second period, but so did the Flyers as a whole. Gostisbehere didn't play a ton later in the third period as the Flyers shortened things up.<\/p>\nNot sure that's enough to sit him in Game 2 but the battle for the lineup will truly be a game-to-game situation. The playoffs are a game-to-game business.<\/p>\n\u2022 James van Riemsdyk was on the fourth line and played 11:40.<\/p>\nNate Thompson, the former Canadien who centers the fourth line, missed a wide-open net late in the third period.<\/p>\nOverall, the Flyers didn't receive the depth efforts they got throughout the round robin, but the club's role players weren't awful, either.<\/p>\nThe Flyers had a so-so game in general.<\/p>\n\u2022 The series continues Friday with Game 2 at 3 p.m. ET on NBCSP.<\/p>\nFor the full series schedule, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-schedule-2020-nhl-playoffs-dates-game-times-broadcast-information\" target=\"_blank\">click here<\/a>.<\/p>\nThe Flyers practice Thursday at 1 p.m. ET at the Ford Performance Centre.<\/p>\nSports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \nSubscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \n<a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-vs-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-game-1-live-stream-storylines-more\">5 big storylines to watch in Flyers-Canadiens 1st-round series<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-playoff-series-1987-pregame-brawl\">Flyers-Canadiens playoff series reminds us of a brawl that changed hockey<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-canadiens-hype-video-epic-movie-trailer\">Flyers vs. Canadiens hype video or epic movie trailer? You decide<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-first-round-flyers-canadiens-remembering-mike-richards-shift\">There\u2019s no better way to get ready for Flyers-Canadiens than \u2018The Shift\u2019<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n"
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Calling out Kirk Muller, Canadiens has meaningful feel","log":"","status":"1","comment":"0","promote":"0","sticky":"0","nid":"821221","type":"article","language":"und","created":"1597450223","changed":"1597549306","tnid":"0","translate":"0","published":"1597466100","revision_timestamp":"1597549306","revision_uid":"156","body":{"und":[{"value":"Alain Vigneault knows his way around come postseason time.<\/p>He can be a different guy when those lights flicker on for the Stanley Cup Playoffs and that trophy is up for grabs.<\/p>That isn't to say he's not intense or competitive during the regular season, but he understands well and relishes what's at stake when the calendar turns to the postseason.<\/p>Everything is turned up a notch.<\/p>In the playoffs, Vigneault won't reveal any lineup decisions in the days leading up to a matchup. There's a new level of gamesmanship. Plain and simple, Vigneault wants to win. The five-time Jack Adams Award finalist who has now coached in four pressure-filled markets \u2014 Montreal, Vancouver, New York and Philadelphia \u2014 wants the Stanley Cup. He was a game away from winning it in 2011 with the Canucks, made it back to the Final in 2013 with the Rangers and owns 12 career playoff berths on his 17-year r\u00e9sum\u00e9.<\/p>When the Cup logo is flashing everywhere you look, he doesn't mess around.<\/p>\"At the end of the day, at this time, there are no friends,\" Vigneault said Monday. \"There are no friends in coaching and there shouldn\u2019t be any friends as far as players. There\u2019s a lot of respect obviously on both sides, but it\u2019s time to play and it\u2019s time to bring it. That\u2019s what both the Flyers and Montreal are going to try to do.\"<\/p>Vigneault's intensity, competitiveness and no-friends mantra were evident Friday night following <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-slammed-back-earth-game-2-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-possible-travis-konecny-injury\" target=\"_blank\">the Flyers' 5-0 loss to the Canadiens<\/a> in Game 2 of their best-of-seven first-round series.<\/p>After the top-seeded Flyers took Game 1, eighth-seeded Montreal took it to them Friday. And it didn't let up. With just over two minutes left to play and the Canadiens leading comfortably 5-0, Montreal went on the power play. Kirk Muller, serving as the Canadiens' head coach <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/montreal-canadiens-head-coach-claude-julien-released-hospital-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">in Claude Julien's stead<\/a>, sent out his first unit of Nick Suzuki, Tomas Tatar, Jonathan Drouin, Shea Weber and Jeff Petry.<\/p>Unprompted postgame, Vigneault went out of his way to highlight the opposition's late-game tactic in a blowout. Suffice it to say Muller's decision did not sit well with the Flyers' bench boss.<\/p><blockquote>I saw toward the end of the game there, where Kirk Muller, they've got a 5-0 lead and he puts his No. 1 power play on the ice. We had embarrassed ourselves enough, I don\u2019t think we needed to get embarrassed more. I\u2019m going to make sure our team is very aware of that next game.<\/p><\/blockquote>While Vigneault was genuinely peeved, the comment very well could be a motivational tactic for his club, to create a little bad blood in the series for a top-seeded team that maybe needed a reason to get angry after rolling through the round robin and gaining league-wide notoriety. The Flyers just received a mini wake-up call at an opportune time \u2014 early in the series when they were up 1-0. Now there's some fuel to their urgency for a response.<\/p>\"We got our butts kicked today in all facets of the game,\" Vigneault said. \"They outworked us, they outplayed us, they out-executed us.<\/p>\"Playoff hockey is about winning four games. Right now, the series is tied 1-1. There\u2019s no doubt that they outplayed us in all facets of the game tonight, especially in the will department. We\u2019re going to need to be a lot better.\"<\/p>Update: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-alain-vigneault-response-canadiens-2020-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers say they're built to respond and there's proof to believe it<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>Did Flyers players take notice of Montreal's first power play unit hitting the ice late in a 5-0 game?<\/p>\"Everyone sees everything out there,\" Kevin Hayes said. \"That\u2019s their coach\u2019s decision, you\u2019ve got to ask him.\"<\/p>\"Yeah, I saw it,\" Claude Giroux, not sounding too concerned by the move, said. \"No comment on that. We\u2019re just going to worry about the next game here.\"<\/p>Vigneault certainly means what he said about the waning minutes of a blowout. If you recall in February, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoff-race-flyers-win-panthers-potential-travis-sanheim-injury\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers had a 5-2 lead over the Panthers<\/a> and went on the power play with about a minute left in regulation. Vigneault sent out a man advantage unit of Robert Hagg, Justin Braun, Connor Bunnaman, Michael Raffl and Nicolas Aube-Kubel.<\/p>That was the regular season, this is the playoffs. Is there a major difference? We'll let you be the judge.<\/p>There are two sides to every story. Muller had a reasonable response when asked about Vigneault's displeasure with his decision.<\/p>\u201cI\u2019ve got a lot of respect, I\u2019ve worked with those coaches over there, they\u2019ve done a heck of a job with their team, they\u2019ve got a good hockey club,\" Muller said postgame. \"I would never disrespect anybody. But we\u2019re in the playoffs, you look at the first series against Pittsburgh, our power play wasn\u2019t that great. I felt that if this was during the season, it would be a different story, but we have no practice time here, we\u2019ve got to keep working on it.<\/p>\"I totally understand if that were his comments, I was probably expecting it, but my job is to make this team as good as it can be right now and I had to keep getting some of these guys that haven\u2019t been productive starting to feel it. I\u2019ve got to focus on our guys in that situation.\u201d<\/p>Vigneault was bothered by the Flyers' loss. He gave credit to the Canadiens. But he also discredited Montreal for that late-game decision.<\/p>The method to a Vigneault-driven playoff push hasn't been witnessed yet in Philadelphia.<\/p>This could be just the beginning.<\/p>Sports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p>Subscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p><a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p><h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3><ul><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-slammed-back-earth-game-2-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-possible-travis-konecny-injury\">Flyers slammed back to earth in Game 2, hope they didn't lose a huge piece<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/montreal-canadiens-head-coach-claude-julien-released-hospital-nhl-playoffs\">Canadiens head coach Julien released from hospital<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/ice-cream-memory-carey-price-carter-hart-ready-2020-nhl-playoffs\">Ice cream and a memory remind us Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/carter-hart-early-birthday-gift-flyers-beat-canadiens-game-1-1st-round-nhl-playoffs\">Enjoy that birthday, young man \u2014 Hart leads Flyers to a not-so-easy Game 1 win<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><\/ul>","summary":"Alain Vigneault was not happy with a decision Friday night by Canadiens coach Kirk Muller and went out of his way to make it known \u2014 for a purpose. By Jordan Hall<\/p>","format":"filtered_html","safe_value":"Alain Vigneault knows his way around come postseason time.<\/p>\nHe can be a different guy when those lights flicker on for the Stanley Cup Playoffs and that trophy is up for grabs.<\/p>\nThat isn't to say he's not intense or competitive during the regular season, but he understands well and relishes what's at stake when the calendar turns to the postseason.<\/p>\nEverything is turned up a notch.<\/p>\nIn the playoffs, Vigneault won't reveal any lineup decisions in the days leading up to a matchup. There's a new level of gamesmanship. Plain and simple, Vigneault wants to win. The five-time Jack Adams Award finalist who has now coached in four pressure-filled markets \u2014 Montreal, Vancouver, New York and Philadelphia \u2014 wants the Stanley Cup. He was a game away from winning it in 2011 with the Canucks, made it back to the Final in 2013 with the Rangers and owns 12 career playoff berths on his 17-year r\u00e9sum\u00e9.<\/p>\nWhen the Cup logo is flashing everywhere you look, he doesn't mess around.<\/p>\n\"At the end of the day, at this time, there are no friends,\" Vigneault said Monday. \"There are no friends in coaching and there shouldn\u2019t be any friends as far as players. There\u2019s a lot of respect obviously on both sides, but it\u2019s time to play and it\u2019s time to bring it. That\u2019s what both the Flyers and Montreal are going to try to do.\"<\/p>\nVigneault's intensity, competitiveness and no-friends mantra were evident Friday night following <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-slammed-back-earth-game-2-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-possible-travis-konecny-injury\" target=\"_blank\">the Flyers' 5-0 loss to the Canadiens<\/a> in Game 2 of their best-of-seven first-round series.<\/p>\nAfter the top-seeded Flyers took Game 1, eighth-seeded Montreal took it to them Friday. And it didn't let up. With just over two minutes left to play and the Canadiens leading comfortably 5-0, Montreal went on the power play. Kirk Muller, serving as the Canadiens' head coach <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/montreal-canadiens-head-coach-claude-julien-released-hospital-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">in Claude Julien's stead<\/a>, sent out his first unit of Nick Suzuki, Tomas Tatar, Jonathan Drouin, Shea Weber and Jeff Petry.<\/p>\nUnprompted postgame, Vigneault went out of his way to highlight the opposition's late-game tactic in a blowout. Suffice it to say Muller's decision did not sit well with the Flyers' bench boss.<\/p>\n<blockquote>I saw toward the end of the game there, where Kirk Muller, they've got a 5-0 lead and he puts his No. 1 power play on the ice. We had embarrassed ourselves enough, I don\u2019t think we needed to get embarrassed more. I\u2019m going to make sure our team is very aware of that next game.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\nWhile Vigneault was genuinely peeved, the comment very well could be a motivational tactic for his club, to create a little bad blood in the series for a top-seeded team that maybe needed a reason to get angry after rolling through the round robin and gaining league-wide notoriety. The Flyers just received a mini wake-up call at an opportune time \u2014 early in the series when they were up 1-0. Now there's some fuel to their urgency for a response.<\/p>\n\"We got our butts kicked today in all facets of the game,\" Vigneault said. \"They outworked us, they outplayed us, they out-executed us.<\/p>\n\"Playoff hockey is about winning four games. Right now, the series is tied 1-1. There\u2019s no doubt that they outplayed us in all facets of the game tonight, especially in the will department. We\u2019re going to need to be a lot better.\"<\/p>\nUpdate: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-alain-vigneault-response-canadiens-2020-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers say they're built to respond and there's proof to believe it<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\nDid Flyers players take notice of Montreal's first power play unit hitting the ice late in a 5-0 game?<\/p>\n\"Everyone sees everything out there,\" Kevin Hayes said. \"That\u2019s their coach\u2019s decision, you\u2019ve got to ask him.\"<\/p>\n\"Yeah, I saw it,\" Claude Giroux, not sounding too concerned by the move, said. \"No comment on that. We\u2019re just going to worry about the next game here.\"<\/p>\nVigneault certainly means what he said about the waning minutes of a blowout. If you recall in February, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoff-race-flyers-win-panthers-potential-travis-sanheim-injury\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers had a 5-2 lead over the Panthers<\/a> and went on the power play with about a minute left in regulation. Vigneault sent out a man advantage unit of Robert Hagg, Justin Braun, Connor Bunnaman, Michael Raffl and Nicolas Aube-Kubel.<\/p>\nThat was the regular season, this is the playoffs. Is there a major difference? We'll let you be the judge.<\/p>\nThere are two sides to every story. Muller had a reasonable response when asked about Vigneault's displeasure with his decision.<\/p>\n\u201cI\u2019ve got a lot of respect, I\u2019ve worked with those coaches over there, they\u2019ve done a heck of a job with their team, they\u2019ve got a good hockey club,\" Muller said postgame. \"I would never disrespect anybody. But we\u2019re in the playoffs, you look at the first series against Pittsburgh, our power play wasn\u2019t that great. I felt that if this was during the season, it would be a different story, but we have no practice time here, we\u2019ve got to keep working on it.<\/p>\n\"I totally understand if that were his comments, I was probably expecting it, but my job is to make this team as good as it can be right now and I had to keep getting some of these guys that haven\u2019t been productive starting to feel it. I\u2019ve got to focus on our guys in that situation.\u201d<\/p>\nVigneault was bothered by the Flyers' loss. He gave credit to the Canadiens. But he also discredited Montreal for that late-game decision.<\/p>\nThe method to a Vigneault-driven playoff push hasn't been witnessed yet in Philadelphia.<\/p>\nThis could be just the beginning.<\/p>\nSports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \nSubscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \n<a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-slammed-back-earth-game-2-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-possible-travis-konecny-injury\">Flyers slammed back to earth in Game 2, hope they didn't lose a huge piece<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/montreal-canadiens-head-coach-claude-julien-released-hospital-nhl-playoffs\">Canadiens head coach Julien released from hospital<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/ice-cream-memory-carey-price-carter-hart-ready-2020-nhl-playoffs\">Ice cream and a memory remind us Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/carter-hart-early-birthday-gift-flyers-beat-canadiens-game-1-1st-round-nhl-playoffs\">Enjoy that birthday, young man \u2014 Hart leads Flyers to a not-so-easy Game 1 win<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","safe_summary":"Alain Vigneault was not happy with a decision Friday night by Canadiens coach Kirk Muller and went out of his way to make it known \u2014 for a purpose. By Jordan Hall<\/p>\n"}]},"field_author_reference":{"und":[{"tid":"1056"}]},"field_bean_single_col":{"und":[{"target_id":"3706"}]},"field_chrome_page":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_date_published":{"und":[{"value":"2020-08-15 04:35:00","timezone":"America\/New_York","timezone_db":"UTC","date_type":"datetime"}]},"field_hero_image_credit":{"und":[{"value":"USA Today Images\/Dan Hamilton","format":null,"safe_value":"USA Today Images\/Dan Hamilton"}]},"field_image":{"und":[{"fid":"2529881","uid":"156","filename":"usa_kirk_muller_alain_vigneault.jpg","uri":"public:\/\/2020\/08\/14\/usa_kirk_muller_alain_vigneault.jpg","filemime":"image\/jpeg","filesize":"1325052","status":"1","timestamp":"1597449859","origname":"usa_kirk_muller_alain_vigneault.jpg","type":"image","field_file_image_alt_text":[],"field_file_image_title_text":[],"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":[],"metadata":{"height":845,"width":1500},"height":"845","width":"1500","alt":null,"title":null}]},"field_league":{"und":[{"tid":"196"}]},"field_section":{"und":[{"tid":"201"}]},"field_short_title":{"und":[{"value":"Vigneault setting his tone? Calling out Canadiens coach has meaningful feel","format":null,"safe_value":"Vigneault setting his tone? Calling out Canadiens coach has meaningful feel"}]},"field_sponsor":[],"field_sport":{"und":[{"tid":"191"}]},"field_tags":{"und":[{"tid":"34056"},{"tid":"10491"},{"tid":"33456"},{"tid":"2576"},{"tid":"466"},{"tid":"30436"},{"tid":"506"},{"tid":"34721"}]},"field_team":{"und":[{"tid":"141"}]},"field_top_story":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_video_autoplay":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_videos":{"und":[{"target_id":"821261"}]},"field_tags_hide":[],"field_video_automute":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_editorial_category":{"und":[{"value":"columns"}]},"field_allow_lld_domains":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_enable_stanza":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_exclude_from_yahoo":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"robots":{"value":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","noindex":0,"nofollow":0,"noarchive":0,"nosnippet":0,"noodp":0,"noydir":0,"noimageindex":0,"notranslate":0}},"news_keywords":{"value":"Alain Vigneault, Kirk Muller, NHL playoffs, 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Jordan Hall, Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens"}}},"path":{"pathauto":"0"},"name":"JHall","picture":"0","data":"b:0;"},"access":true},{"target_id":"821381","entity":{"vid":"870481","uid":"156","title":"Flyers say they're built to respond in NHL playoffs and there's proof to believe it","log":"","status":"1","comment":"0","promote":"0","sticky":"0","nid":"821381","type":"article","language":"und","created":"1597528144","changed":"1597548786","tnid":"0","translate":"0","published":"1597546800","revision_timestamp":"1597548786","revision_uid":"156","body":{"und":[{"value":"Among the 31 players on the Flyers' roster, Matt Niskanen has experienced the most playoff wars and the pressure that hangs over them.<\/p>The 33-year-old defenseman has played in 130 career postseason games and counting. He won the 2018 Stanley Cup with the Capitals and his time in D.C. featured an accomplished core of players that had to constantly stare playoff pressure in the eyes. Before 2018, the Capitals created expectations with back-to-back Presidents' Trophy honors from 2015-17 and had never hoisted the Cup in their organization's history.<\/p>In the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs, the Flyers are the Eastern Conference's top seed after climbing from No. 4 to No. 1 during the round robin. In the first round, they're coming off an eye-opening 5-0 loss to the Canadiens, who entered the NHL's return-to-play tournament as the lowest overall seed in the 24-team field.<\/p>The alarming Game 2 has called for a loud response from the Flyers with the series knotted at 1-1 heading into Sunday's Game 3 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-schedule-2020-nhl-playoffs-dates-game-times-broadcast-information\" target=\"_blank\">(8 p.m. ET\/NBC)<\/a>. Niskanen, who has played on various clubs that went through the postseason trenches, was asked why these Flyers are built to respond in the playoffs like they did during their regular-season stretch run.<\/p>\"We've got guys that are hungry for success,\" Niskanen said Friday with some conviction in his voice following the loss to Montreal.<\/p>\"I like our group, we believe in our abilities. ... We had a bit of a blunder today, we\u2019ll learn from it quickly and get excited and get our energy up for the next game. I know we\u2019ll play better.\"<\/p>The Flyers' belief in their ability to quickly respond holds merit. From Jan. 8 to the end of the regular season (which was March 12 because of the coronavirus outbreak), the Flyers went 19-6-1 without consecutive losses. Over that time, in games after their last eight losses (including their 2-0 loss to the Bruins in the regular-season finale), the Flyers are 8-0-0 and have outscored the opposition 40-17.<\/p>On Jan. 16, the Flyers stumbled to the Canadiens, 4-1. They followed it up with a 4-1 win over the Kings and 3-0 blanking of the Penguins. On Feb. 6, the Flyers were blown out by the Devils, 5-0, at the Wells Fargo Center. Their very next game, they routed the Capitals, 7-2, on the road.<\/p>Turning the page became <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-odds-24-team-tournament-season\" target=\"_blank\">a staple under head coach Alain Vigneault<\/a> as the Flyers started climbing the standings. They need that staple early in the playoffs. The Flyers were going to eventually lose a game in the postseason, but the defeat was not expected to be by five goals or a truly one-sided decision this soon through the first round.<\/p>\"We have [Carter Hart and Brian Elliott] in there, they always help, we've got the right coaching staff and we've got the right leaders on this team that know that we need to respond in a certain way,\" Kevin Hayes said Friday. \"I have all the faith in the world in our leaders and in all of our teammates that we\u2019re going to respond in the right way in Game 3.\"<\/p>Losses of the flavor the Flyers tasted in Game 2 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-slammed-back-earth-game-2-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-possible-travis-konecny-injury\" target=\"_blank\">tend to bring at least some changes or tweaks<\/a>. The statuses of Travis Konecny and Michael Raffl are uncertain for Game 3. Konecny exited late in the third period of Game 2 after blocking a shot with his foot and Raffl has missed the last four games with an undisclosed injury but took part in warmups Friday. Per NHL protocols for the tournament, Vigneault is not permitted to release specifics on any injuries\/illnesses. It's not as if he would anyway this time of year. For strategic purposes, the bench boss is not disclosing lineup decisions during the postseason.<\/p>But Vigneault and his staff have important adjustments to dissect and discuss, adjustments that could come down the lineup.<\/p>\"Well, that\u2019s why they pay me the big bucks, you know?\" Vigneault said with a laugh Saturday. \"At the end of the day, that was our first really tough game in the last 16 or 17. Do you make some minor changes? Do you make some major changes? Do you show faith in the group that brought you to the dance and played extremely well down the stretch? Tune in, you\u2019ll find out tomorrow.\"<\/p>And we'll find out how well the top-seeded Flyers are prepared for an early test of playoff fortitude.<\/p>Sports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p>Subscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p><a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p><h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3><ul><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/alain-vigneault-calling-out-kirk-muller-canadiens-meaningful-feel-nhl-playoffs\">Vigneault setting his tone? Calling out Canadiens coach has meaningful feel<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-slammed-back-earth-game-2-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-possible-travis-konecny-injury\">Flyers slammed back to earth in Game 2, hope they didn't lose a huge piece<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/montreal-canadiens-head-coach-claude-julien-released-hospital-nhl-playoffs\">Canadiens head coach Julien released from hospital<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/ice-cream-memory-carey-price-carter-hart-ready-2020-nhl-playoffs\">Ice cream and a memory remind us Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><\/ul>","summary":"The Flyers have said they're built to respond from the ugly Game 2 loss and there's proof to believe it. By Jordan Hall<\/p>","format":"filtered_html","safe_value":"Among the 31 players on the Flyers' roster, Matt Niskanen has experienced the most playoff wars and the pressure that hangs over them.<\/p>\nThe 33-year-old defenseman has played in 130 career postseason games and counting. He won the 2018 Stanley Cup with the Capitals and his time in D.C. featured an accomplished core of players that had to constantly stare playoff pressure in the eyes. Before 2018, the Capitals created expectations with back-to-back Presidents' Trophy honors from 2015-17 and had never hoisted the Cup in their organization's history.<\/p>\nIn the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs, the Flyers are the Eastern Conference's top seed after climbing from No. 4 to No. 1 during the round robin. In the first round, they're coming off an eye-opening 5-0 loss to the Canadiens, who entered the NHL's return-to-play tournament as the lowest overall seed in the 24-team field.<\/p>\nThe alarming Game 2 has called for a loud response from the Flyers with the series knotted at 1-1 heading into Sunday's Game 3 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-schedule-2020-nhl-playoffs-dates-game-times-broadcast-information\" target=\"_blank\">(8 p.m. ET\/NBC)<\/a>. Niskanen, who has played on various clubs that went through the postseason trenches, was asked why these Flyers are built to respond in the playoffs like they did during their regular-season stretch run.<\/p>\n\"We've got guys that are hungry for success,\" Niskanen said Friday with some conviction in his voice following the loss to Montreal.<\/p>\n\"I like our group, we believe in our abilities. ... We had a bit of a blunder today, we\u2019ll learn from it quickly and get excited and get our energy up for the next game. I know we\u2019ll play better.\"<\/p>\nThe Flyers' belief in their ability to quickly respond holds merit. From Jan. 8 to the end of the regular season (which was March 12 because of the coronavirus outbreak), the Flyers went 19-6-1 without consecutive losses. Over that time, in games after their last eight losses (including their 2-0 loss to the Bruins in the regular-season finale), the Flyers are 8-0-0 and have outscored the opposition 40-17.<\/p>\nOn Jan. 16, the Flyers stumbled to the Canadiens, 4-1. They followed it up with a 4-1 win over the Kings and 3-0 blanking of the Penguins. On Feb. 6, the Flyers were blown out by the Devils, 5-0, at the Wells Fargo Center. Their very next game, they routed the Capitals, 7-2, on the road.<\/p>\nTurning the page became <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-odds-24-team-tournament-season\" target=\"_blank\">a staple under head coach Alain Vigneault<\/a> as the Flyers started climbing the standings. They need that staple early in the playoffs. The Flyers were going to eventually lose a game in the postseason, but the defeat was not expected to be by five goals or a truly one-sided decision this soon through the first round.<\/p>\n\"We have [Carter Hart and Brian Elliott] in there, they always help, we've got the right coaching staff and we've got the right leaders on this team that know that we need to respond in a certain way,\" Kevin Hayes said Friday. \"I have all the faith in the world in our leaders and in all of our teammates that we\u2019re going to respond in the right way in Game 3.\"<\/p>\nLosses of the flavor the Flyers tasted in Game 2 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-slammed-back-earth-game-2-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-possible-travis-konecny-injury\" target=\"_blank\">tend to bring at least some changes or tweaks<\/a>. The statuses of Travis Konecny and Michael Raffl are uncertain for Game 3. Konecny exited late in the third period of Game 2 after blocking a shot with his foot and Raffl has missed the last four games with an undisclosed injury but took part in warmups Friday. Per NHL protocols for the tournament, Vigneault is not permitted to release specifics on any injuries\/illnesses. It's not as if he would anyway this time of year. For strategic purposes, the bench boss is not disclosing lineup decisions during the postseason.<\/p>\nBut Vigneault and his staff have important adjustments to dissect and discuss, adjustments that could come down the lineup.<\/p>\n\"Well, that\u2019s why they pay me the big bucks, you know?\" Vigneault said with a laugh Saturday. \"At the end of the day, that was our first really tough game in the last 16 or 17. Do you make some minor changes? Do you make some major changes? Do you show faith in the group that brought you to the dance and played extremely well down the stretch? Tune in, you\u2019ll find out tomorrow.\"<\/p>\nAnd we'll find out how well the top-seeded Flyers are prepared for an early test of playoff fortitude.<\/p>\nSports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \nSubscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \n<a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/alain-vigneault-calling-out-kirk-muller-canadiens-meaningful-feel-nhl-playoffs\">Vigneault setting his tone? Calling out Canadiens coach has meaningful feel<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-slammed-back-earth-game-2-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-possible-travis-konecny-injury\">Flyers slammed back to earth in Game 2, hope they didn't lose a huge piece<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/montreal-canadiens-head-coach-claude-julien-released-hospital-nhl-playoffs\">Canadiens head coach Julien released from hospital<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/ice-cream-memory-carey-price-carter-hart-ready-2020-nhl-playoffs\">Ice cream and a memory remind us Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","safe_summary":"The Flyers have said they're built to respond from the ugly Game 2 loss and there's proof to believe it. By Jordan Hall<\/p>\n"}]},"field_author_reference":{"und":[{"tid":"1056"}]},"field_bean_single_col":{"und":[{"target_id":"3706"}]},"field_chrome_page":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_date_published":{"und":[{"value":"2020-08-16 03:00:00","timezone":"America\/New_York","timezone_db":"UTC","date_type":"datetime"}]},"field_hero_image_credit":{"und":[{"value":"Mark Blinch\/NHLI via Getty Images","format":null,"safe_value":"Mark Blinch\/NHLI via Getty Images"}]},"field_image":{"und":[{"fid":"2531666","uid":"156","filename":"getty_matt_niskanen.jpg","uri":"public:\/\/2020\/08\/15\/getty_images_matt_niskanen.jpg","filemime":"image\/jpeg","filesize":"1289971","status":"1","timestamp":"1597546194","origname":"usa_claude_giroux.jpg","type":"image","field_file_image_alt_text":[],"field_file_image_title_text":[],"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"title":{"value":"[current-page:title] | [current-page:pager][site:name]","default":"[current-page:title] | 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say they're built to respond and there's proof to believe it","format":null,"safe_value":"Flyers say they're built to respond and there's proof to believe it"}]},"field_sponsor":[],"field_sport":{"und":[{"tid":"191"}]},"field_tags":{"und":[{"tid":"10491"},{"tid":"34056"},{"tid":"33456"},{"tid":"2576"},{"tid":"466"},{"tid":"506"}]},"field_team":{"und":[{"tid":"141"}]},"field_top_story":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_video_autoplay":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_videos":{"und":[{"target_id":"821246"}]},"field_tags_hide":[],"field_video_automute":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_editorial_category":{"und":[{"value":"columns"}]},"field_allow_lld_domains":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_enable_stanza":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_exclude_from_yahoo":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"robots":{"value":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","noindex":0,"nofollow":0,"noarchive":0,"nosnippet":0,"noodp":0,"noydir":0,"noimageindex":0,"notranslate":0}},"news_keywords":{"value":"Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens, Jordan Hall, NHL playoffs, 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs"}}},"path":{"pathauto":"0"},"name":"JHall","picture":"0","data":"b:0;"},"access":true},{"target_id":"821151","entity":{"vid":"870251","uid":"156","title":"Flyers slammed back to earth in Game 2, hope they didn't lose Travis Konecny to injury","log":"","status":"1","comment":"0","promote":"0","sticky":"0","nid":"821151","type":"article","language":"und","created":"1597434834","changed":"1597519421","tnid":"0","translate":"0","published":"1597441800","revision_timestamp":"1597519421","revision_uid":"156","body":{"und":[{"value":"<a href=\"https:\/\/csnphilly.stats.com\/nhl\/boxscore.asp?gamecode=2020081415\" target=\"_blank\">BOX SCORE<\/a><\/p>Entering Friday afternoon's game, the Flyers had not yet trailed through their 4-0-0 start to the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament.<\/p>They trailed early and big in a back-to-earth Game 2 loss to the Canadiens at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, a disastrous 5-0 decision that has evened the Flyers' best-of-seven first-round playoff series with Montreal.<\/p>Carter Hart was yanked from the game with 2:03 left in the middle frame after yielding more than three goals for the first time in 12 games.<\/p>An awful first period by the Flyers (more on that below) set the tone and now head coach Alain Vigneault will have to work his magic with some adjustments if his top-seeded club wants to regain control of the series.<\/p>\"We got our butts kicked,\" Vigneault said postgame in a video interview.<\/p>More: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/alain-vigneault-calling-out-kirk-muller-canadiens-meaningful-feel-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Vigneault setting his tone? Calling out Canadiens coach has meaningful feel<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1294414103344283653?s=20<\/p>\u2022 After shining through his first three starts in the tournament (3-0-0, 1.00 goals-against average) and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/ice-cream-memory-carey-price-carter-hart-ready-2020-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">having his 22nd birthday Wednesday<\/a>, Hart was roughed up by Montreal.<\/p>The Flyers were not good in front of him and Hart wasn't good himself, either.<\/p>On Jesperi Kotkaniemi's first of two goals to make it 2-0 in the opening stanza, Hart had a bad giveaway behind his net that eventually led to the marker. If there's one thing Hart has had to work on, it's his play with the puck outside of his crease.<\/p>[[{\"fid\":\"2529646\",\"view_mode\":\"default\",\"fields\":{\"format\":\"default\",\"field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]\":false,\"field_file_image_title_text[und][0][value]\":false},\"type\":\"media\",\"field_deltas\":{\"1\":{\"format\":\"default\",\"field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]\":false,\"field_file_image_title_text[und][0][value]\":false}},\"attributes\":{\"class\":\"media-element file-default\",\"data-delta\":\"1\"}}]]<\/p>Hart made only 22 saves on 26 shots before Brian Elliott took over, finishing the game with five saves on six shots. Hart will be right back at it in Game 3. It's his first taste of failure in the NHL playoffs.<\/p>Carey Price is so difficult to beat when he has a big lead. He was impressive and pitched a 30-save shutout.<\/p>\u2022 As the Flyers started looking like a contender down the stretch of the regular season and through the round robin, they didn't give fans much at all to complain about; they were that good.<\/p>Well, the first period Friday against the Canadiens was worthy of complaints. The Flyers put out what might have been one of their worst first-period performances of the 2019-20 season.<\/p>From the onset, the Flyers looked slow, sloppy and out of sync as the eighth-seeded Canadiens completely took it to the Eastern Conference's top seed.<\/p>The Flyers trailed 1:02 into the action on a Tomas Tatar goal (his first of two) and things never got better during the opening stanza. As a result, they were down by multiple goals at first intermission for the first time in their last 15 games, while they were outshot 16-6. At one point, Montreal had a 12-0 advantage in shots. <\/p>It sort of felt like an ugly flashback to 2018-19. The Flyers were not ready or energized out of the chute and it burned them a game in this series. Every game is precious in the playoffs.<\/p>\u2022 The Flyers' nightmare was capped when All-Star and leading scorer in the regular season Travis Konecny exited the game in the third period after blocking a shot with his foot.<\/p>Konecny departed under his own power without putting pressure on his left leg. The Flyers will hope it was a precautionary exit in a game that was already decided.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1294384090192510976?s=20<\/p>Michael Raffl <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">(undisclosed injury)<\/a> was able to skate in warmups after missing the final two round-robin games and Game 1 of this series. Scratches can skate during warmups and the fact that Raffl partook is a good sign for his potential return.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1294712090528186369?s=20<\/p>\u2022 If you're looking for any positives after this one, it's that the Flyers went 19-6-1 without consecutive losses from Jan. 8 to the end of the regular season (also known as the NHL pause on March 12).<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1246901909107232771?s=20<\/p>Under Vigneault, the Flyers were very good at burying a bad performance by quickly turning the page with proper adjustments. They suffered a 5-0 loss and 4-1 defeat during that stretch from Jan. 8 to the end of the season; they responded well from both of those clunkers with strong wins.<\/p>\u2022 Losses like that will bring changes in the playoffs.<\/p>The third defensive pair of Shayne Gostisbehere and Justin Braun struggled. Both blueliners had a minus-2 rating, both had turnovers and both just didn't look in rhythm.<\/p>The Canadiens' fourth goal took a bad bounce of off Gostisbehere's skate. Those happen but they also don't look good. A Gostisbehere penalty led to a Montreal power play goal to make it 3-0. The holding call on Gostisbehere was questionable as he was trying to prevent a breakaway from Max Domi.<\/p>Everyone played poorly, but it wouldn't be surprising if Vigneault gives Robert Hagg a look for defensive and physicality reasons in a big Game 3.<\/p>\u2022 In an attempt to spark the Flyers, Vigneault shuffled his lines for the third period but it didn't lead to much.<\/p>The Flyers' top five goal scorers from the regular season \u2014 Konecny (24 goals), Kevin Hayes (23), Sean Couturier (22), Claude Giroux (21) and James van Riemsdyk (19) \u2014 have combined for nine assists but no goals in the tournament so far.<\/p>\u2022 The Flyers' power play is 1 for 19 in the tournament. It hasn't been sharp or consistent when the Flyers get set up.<\/p>\u2022 The series continues Sunday with Game 3 at 8 p.m. ET on NBC.<\/p>For the full series schedule, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-schedule-2020-nhl-playoffs-dates-game-times-broadcast-information\" target=\"_blank\">click here<\/a>.<\/p>The Flyers won't have an on-ice practice Saturday.<\/p>Sports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p>Subscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p><a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p><h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3><ul><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/montreal-canadiens-head-coach-claude-julien-released-hospital-nhl-playoffs\">Canadiens head coach Julien released from hospital<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/ice-cream-memory-carey-price-carter-hart-ready-2020-nhl-playoffs\">Ice cream and a memory remind us Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/carter-hart-early-birthday-gift-flyers-beat-canadiens-game-1-1st-round-nhl-playoffs\">Enjoy that birthday, young man \u2014 Hart leads Flyers to a not-so-easy Game 1 win<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-draft-lottery-rangers-win-no-1-pick-consensus-alexis-lafreniere\">No. 1 pick lands in Metropolitan Division but to the lesser of two Flyers rivals<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><\/ul>","summary":"The Flyers on Friday were thumped by the Habs, 5-0, in Game 2 of their best-of-seven first-round playoff series, which is now all even at 1-1. By Jordan Hall<\/p>","format":"filtered_html","safe_value":"<a href=\"https:\/\/csnphilly.stats.com\/nhl\/boxscore.asp?gamecode=2020081415\" target=\"_blank\">BOX SCORE<\/a><\/p>\nEntering Friday afternoon's game, the Flyers had not yet trailed through their 4-0-0 start to the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament.<\/p>\nThey trailed early and big in a back-to-earth Game 2 loss to the Canadiens at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, a disastrous 5-0 decision that has evened the Flyers' best-of-seven first-round playoff series with Montreal.<\/p>\nCarter Hart was yanked from the game with 2:03 left in the middle frame after yielding more than three goals for the first time in 12 games.<\/p>\nAn awful first period by the Flyers (more on that below) set the tone and now head coach Alain Vigneault will have to work his magic with some adjustments if his top-seeded club wants to regain control of the series.<\/p>\n\"We got our butts kicked,\" Vigneault said postgame in a video interview.<\/p>\nMore: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/alain-vigneault-calling-out-kirk-muller-canadiens-meaningful-feel-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Vigneault setting his tone? Calling out Canadiens coach has meaningful feel<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Flyers' largest margins of defeat this season: 6 goals \u2014 7-1 loss to Penguins, Oct. 29 5 goals \u2014 5-0 loss to Canadiens, Aug. 14 (playoffs) 5 goals \u2014 6-1 loss to Sharks, Dec. 28 5 goals \u2014 5-0 loss to Devils, Feb. 6<\/p>— Jordan Hall (@JHallNBCS) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1294414103344283653?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 14, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 After shining through his first three starts in the tournament (3-0-0, 1.00 goals-against average) and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/ice-cream-memory-carey-price-carter-hart-ready-2020-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">having his 22nd birthday Wednesday<\/a>, Hart was roughed up by Montreal.<\/p>\nThe Flyers were not good in front of him and Hart wasn't good himself, either.<\/p>\nOn Jesperi Kotkaniemi's first of two goals to make it 2-0 in the opening stanza, Hart had a bad giveaway behind his net that eventually led to the marker. If there's one thing Hart has had to work on, it's his play with the puck outside of his crease.<\/p>\n<div class=\"media media-element-container media-default\"><div id=\"file-2529646--54\" class=\"file file-image file-image-jpeg\">\r\n\r\n <h2 class=\"element-invisible\"><a href=\"\/files\/hartjpg-6\">hart.jpg<\/a><\/h2>\r\n \r\n \r\n <div class=\"content\">\r\n <img class=\"media-element file-default\" data-delta=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/sites\/csnphilly\/files\/hart.jpg\" width=\"1150\" height=\"568\" alt=\"\" \/> <\/div>\r\n\r\n \r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div><\/p>\nHart made only 22 saves on 26 shots before Brian Elliott took over, finishing the game with five saves on six shots. Hart will be right back at it in Game 3. It's his first taste of failure in the NHL playoffs.<\/p>\nCarey Price is so difficult to beat when he has a big lead. He was impressive and pitched a 30-save shutout.<\/p>\n\u2022 As the Flyers started looking like a contender down the stretch of the regular season and through the round robin, they didn't give fans much at all to complain about; they were that good.<\/p>\nWell, the first period Friday against the Canadiens was worthy of complaints. The Flyers put out what might have been one of their worst first-period performances of the 2019-20 season.<\/p>\nFrom the onset, the Flyers looked slow, sloppy and out of sync as the eighth-seeded Canadiens completely took it to the Eastern Conference's top seed.<\/p>\nThe Flyers trailed 1:02 into the action on a Tomas Tatar goal (his first of two) and things never got better during the opening stanza. As a result, they were down by multiple goals at first intermission for the first time in their last 15 games, while they were outshot 16-6. At one point, Montreal had a 12-0 advantage in shots. <\/p>\nIt sort of felt like an ugly flashback to 2018-19. The Flyers were not ready or energized out of the chute and it burned them a game in this series. Every game is precious in the playoffs.<\/p>\n\u2022 The Flyers' nightmare was capped when All-Star and leading scorer in the regular season Travis Konecny exited the game in the third period after blocking a shot with his foot.<\/p>\nKonecny departed under his own power without putting pressure on his left leg. The Flyers will hope it was a precautionary exit in a game that was already decided.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Salt in the wound: Travis Konecny leaves the game after blocking a shot. Flyers will want to bury this one far and away. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/C0pScdiaZc\">pic.twitter.com\/C0pScdiaZc<\/a><\/p>— Jordan Hall (@JHallNBCS) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1294384090192510976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 14, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\nMichael Raffl <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">(undisclosed injury)<\/a> was able to skate in warmups after missing the final two round-robin games and Game 1 of this series. Scratches can skate during warmups and the fact that Raffl partook is a good sign for his potential return.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Alain Vigneault can't comment on the statuses of Michael Raffl and Travis Konecny.<\/p>— Jordan Hall (@JHallNBCS) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1294712090528186369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 15, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 If you're looking for any positives after this one, it's that the Flyers went 19-6-1 without consecutive losses from Jan. 8 to the end of the regular season (also known as the NHL pause on March 12).<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">The Flyers since Jan. 8 prior to NHL stoppage. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/icUrYeh98q\">pic.twitter.com\/icUrYeh98q<\/a><\/p>— Jordan Hall (@JHallNBCS) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1246901909107232771?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">April 5, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\nUnder Vigneault, the Flyers were very good at burying a bad performance by quickly turning the page with proper adjustments. They suffered a 5-0 loss and 4-1 defeat during that stretch from Jan. 8 to the end of the season; they responded well from both of those clunkers with strong wins.<\/p>\n\u2022 Losses like that will bring changes in the playoffs.<\/p>\nThe third defensive pair of Shayne Gostisbehere and Justin Braun struggled. Both blueliners had a minus-2 rating, both had turnovers and both just didn't look in rhythm.<\/p>\nThe Canadiens' fourth goal took a bad bounce of off Gostisbehere's skate. Those happen but they also don't look good. A Gostisbehere penalty led to a Montreal power play goal to make it 3-0. The holding call on Gostisbehere was questionable as he was trying to prevent a breakaway from Max Domi.<\/p>\nEveryone played poorly, but it wouldn't be surprising if Vigneault gives Robert Hagg a look for defensive and physicality reasons in a big Game 3.<\/p>\n\u2022 In an attempt to spark the Flyers, Vigneault shuffled his lines for the third period but it didn't lead to much.<\/p>\nThe Flyers' top five goal scorers from the regular season \u2014 Konecny (24 goals), Kevin Hayes (23), Sean Couturier (22), Claude Giroux (21) and James van Riemsdyk (19) \u2014 have combined for nine assists but no goals in the tournament so far.<\/p>\n\u2022 The Flyers' power play is 1 for 19 in the tournament. It hasn't been sharp or consistent when the Flyers get set up.<\/p>\n\u2022 The series continues Sunday with Game 3 at 8 p.m. ET on NBC.<\/p>\nFor the full series schedule, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-schedule-2020-nhl-playoffs-dates-game-times-broadcast-information\" target=\"_blank\">click here<\/a>.<\/p>\nThe Flyers won't have an on-ice practice Saturday.<\/p>\nSports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \nSubscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \n<a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/montreal-canadiens-head-coach-claude-julien-released-hospital-nhl-playoffs\">Canadiens head coach Julien released from hospital<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/ice-cream-memory-carey-price-carter-hart-ready-2020-nhl-playoffs\">Ice cream and a memory remind us Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/carter-hart-early-birthday-gift-flyers-beat-canadiens-game-1-1st-round-nhl-playoffs\">Enjoy that birthday, young man \u2014 Hart leads Flyers to a not-so-easy Game 1 win<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-draft-lottery-rangers-win-no-1-pick-consensus-alexis-lafreniere\">No. 1 pick lands in Metropolitan Division but to the lesser of two Flyers rivals<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","safe_summary":"The Flyers on Friday were thumped by the Habs, 5-0, in Game 2 of their best-of-seven first-round playoff series, which is now all even at 1-1. By Jordan Hall<\/p>\n"}]},"field_author_reference":{"und":[{"tid":"1056"}]},"field_bean_single_col":{"und":[{"target_id":"3706"}]},"field_chrome_page":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_date_published":{"und":[{"value":"2020-08-14 21:50:00","timezone":"America\/New_York","timezone_db":"UTC","date_type":"datetime"}]},"field_hero_image_credit":{"und":[{"value":"USA Today Images\/Dan Hamilton","format":null,"safe_value":"USA Today Images\/Dan Hamilton"}]},"field_image":{"und":[{"fid":"2529596","uid":"156","filename":"usa_shayne_gostisbehere.jpg","uri":"public:\/\/2020\/08\/14\/usa_shayne_gostisbehere.jpg","filemime":"image\/jpeg","filesize":"1041306","status":"1","timestamp":"1597438317","origname":"usa_shayne_gostisbehere.jpg","type":"image","field_file_image_alt_text":[],"field_file_image_title_text":[],"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":[],"metadata":{"height":806,"width":1500},"height":"806","width":"1500","alt":null,"title":null}]},"field_league":{"und":[{"tid":"196"}]},"field_section":{"und":[{"tid":"201"}]},"field_short_title":{"und":[{"value":"Flyers slammed back to earth in Game 2, hope they didn't lose a huge piece","format":null,"safe_value":"Flyers slammed back to earth in Game 2, hope they didn't lose a huge piece"}]},"field_sponsor":[],"field_sport":{"und":[{"tid":"191"}]},"field_tags":{"und":[{"tid":"34056"},{"tid":"33456"},{"tid":"2576"},{"tid":"22636"},{"tid":"10491"},{"tid":"466"},{"tid":"506"}]},"field_team":{"und":[{"tid":"141"}]},"field_top_story":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_video_autoplay":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_videos":{"und":[{"target_id":"821181"}]},"field_tags_hide":[],"field_video_automute":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_editorial_category":{"und":[{"value":"analysis"}]},"field_allow_lld_domains":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_enable_stanza":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_exclude_from_yahoo":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"robots":{"value":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","noindex":0,"nofollow":0,"noarchive":0,"nosnippet":0,"noodp":0,"noydir":0,"noimageindex":0,"notranslate":0}},"news_keywords":{"value":"Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens, Flyers playoffs, Jordan Hall, Flyers observations, NHL playoffs, 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs"}}},"path":{"pathauto":"0"},"name":"JHall","picture":"0","data":"b:0;"},"access":true},{"target_id":"819626","entity":{"vid":"868716","uid":"156","title":"Ice cream and a memory vs. Carey Price remind us Carter Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment","log":"","status":"1","comment":"0","promote":"0","sticky":"0","nid":"819626","type":"article","language":"und","created":"1596989819","changed":"1597369061","tnid":"0","translate":"0","published":"1597368900","revision_timestamp":"1597369061","revision_uid":"156","body":{"und":[{"value":"When Carey Price was at his most dominant, winning the Vezina Trophy (top goalie) and <\/em>Hart Memorial Trophy (MVP) in 2014-15, Carter Hart was just 16 years old. <\/p>The precocious but innocent kid had just begun molding his game at the junior hockey level with the WHL's Silvertips in Everett, Washington.<\/p>Price was at the sport's pinnacle.<\/p>\"He was my favorite goalie growing up,\" Hart said.<\/p>On Wednesday, the night before his 22nd birthday, Hart found himself stretching next to Price at the center-ice line in front of the scorekeepers' bench.<\/p>There was Hart, on the same NHL stage as his idol, facing him in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.<\/p>The NHL postseason is serious business, requiring the utmost competitiveness and focus. Hart, whose youthfulness often belies his maturity, fully understands the beast that is the Stanley Cup Playoffs. But the postseason makes for special moments and memories. NHL players all looked up to someone at some point. For Hart, he allowed himself to appreciate the storyline ahead.<\/p>\"Definitely really cool,\" Hart said last Sunday about the upcoming best-of-seven first-round matchup with Price's Canadiens. \"Just had the chance to actually meet him the other week and talk with him for the first time, so that was something pretty cool. For your first playoff series, playing against Carey Price will definitely be a lot of fun; I look forward to it.\"<\/p>Price, who turns 33 years old on Sunday, was unable to spoil the youngster's birthday. By midnight, Hart and the top-seeded Flyers had a 1-0 series lead after earning a hard-fought 2-1 victory over eighth-seeded Montreal. Hart is 3-0-0 with a 1.00 goals-against average and .966 save percentage through three games in the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament.<\/p>On the ice, the Flyers were able to celebrate around Hart after he turned away 27 of 28 shots, with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/carter-hart-early-birthday-gift-flyers-beat-canadiens-game-1-1st-round-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">16 of those saves coming in the second period when the Flyers really needed him<\/a>.<\/p>Off the ice, they made sure to celebrate Hart's birthday a little early, making the best of the circumstances in the Eastern Conference's Toronto bubble.<\/p>\u201cI think some guys got him some ice cream yesterday after the game and just sang him happy birthday,\" Shayne Gostisbehere said Thursday with a smile. \"He\u2019s been pretty good.\u201d<\/p>\u201cLet him do his thing,\u201d Scott Laughton chimed in about Hart.<\/p>\u201cYeah, let him do his thing,\" Gostisbehere echoed.<\/p>After a short and sweet exchange with Price, Hart did his thing in Game 1.<\/p>\u201cJust said hello quickly in warmups, good luck and it was just time to go play,\" Hart said.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NHLGIFs\/status\/1293708363382087683?s=20<\/p>If Hart continues to play the way he has this season and to start the tournament, he could remember the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs for much more than a memorable matchup with Price.<\/p>But there's a kid in everyone. Then again, Hart is only 22 years old.<\/p>\"He\u2019s a special kid,\" Derek Grant said last week. \"He\u2019s so calm. He puts his mask on, you don\u2019t know how old he is.\"<\/p>With his mask off, Hart hopefully enjoyed a little ice cream and soaked in the moment.<\/p>Sports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p>Subscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p><a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p><h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3><ul><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/canadiens-coach-claude-julien-hospitalized-chest-pain\">Canadiens head coach Julien hospitalized with chest pain<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/carter-hart-early-birthday-gift-flyers-beat-canadiens-game-1-1st-round-nhl-playoffs\">Enjoy that birthday, young man \u2014 Hart leads Flyers to a not-so-easy Game 1 win<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-vs-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-game-1-live-stream-storylines-more\">5 big storylines to watch in Flyers-Canadiens 1st-round series<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-playoff-series-1987-pregame-brawl\">Flyers-Canadiens playoff series reminds us of a brawl that changed hockey<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><\/ul>","summary":"Ice cream and a memory against Carey Price serve as a reminder that Carter Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment. By Jordan Hall<\/p>","format":"filtered_html","safe_value":"When Carey Price was at his most dominant, winning the Vezina Trophy (top goalie) and <\/em>Hart Memorial Trophy (MVP) in 2014-15, Carter Hart was just 16 years old. <\/p>\nThe precocious but innocent kid had just begun molding his game at the junior hockey level with the WHL's Silvertips in Everett, Washington.<\/p>\nPrice was at the sport's pinnacle.<\/p>\n\"He was my favorite goalie growing up,\" Hart said.<\/p>\nOn Wednesday, the night before his 22nd birthday, Hart found himself stretching next to Price at the center-ice line in front of the scorekeepers' bench.<\/p>\nThere was Hart, on the same NHL stage as his idol, facing him in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.<\/p>\nThe NHL postseason is serious business, requiring the utmost competitiveness and focus. Hart, whose youthfulness often belies his maturity, fully understands the beast that is the Stanley Cup Playoffs. But the postseason makes for special moments and memories. NHL players all looked up to someone at some point. For Hart, he allowed himself to appreciate the storyline ahead.<\/p>\n\"Definitely really cool,\" Hart said last Sunday about the upcoming best-of-seven first-round matchup with Price's Canadiens. \"Just had the chance to actually meet him the other week and talk with him for the first time, so that was something pretty cool. For your first playoff series, playing against Carey Price will definitely be a lot of fun; I look forward to it.\"<\/p>\nPrice, who turns 33 years old on Sunday, was unable to spoil the youngster's birthday. By midnight, Hart and the top-seeded Flyers had a 1-0 series lead after earning a hard-fought 2-1 victory over eighth-seeded Montreal. Hart is 3-0-0 with a 1.00 goals-against average and .966 save percentage through three games in the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament.<\/p>\nOn the ice, the Flyers were able to celebrate around Hart after he turned away 27 of 28 shots, with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/carter-hart-early-birthday-gift-flyers-beat-canadiens-game-1-1st-round-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">16 of those saves coming in the second period when the Flyers really needed him<\/a>.<\/p>\nOff the ice, they made sure to celebrate Hart's birthday a little early, making the best of the circumstances in the Eastern Conference's Toronto bubble.<\/p>\n\u201cI think some guys got him some ice cream yesterday after the game and just sang him happy birthday,\" Shayne Gostisbehere said Thursday with a smile. \"He\u2019s been pretty good.\u201d<\/p>\n\u201cLet him do his thing,\u201d Scott Laughton chimed in about Hart.<\/p>\n\u201cYeah, let him do his thing,\" Gostisbehere echoed.<\/p>\nAfter a short and sweet exchange with Price, Hart did his thing in Game 1.<\/p>\n\u201cJust said hello quickly in warmups, good luck and it was just time to go play,\" Hart said.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">When you gotta keep your cool around your idol...and try to beat him in the <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/hashtag\/StanleyCup?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#StanleyCup<\/a> Playoffs! <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/sYU2SYTpR0\">pic.twitter.com\/sYU2SYTpR0<\/a><\/p>— NHL GIFs (@NHLGIFs) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NHLGIFs\/status\/1293708363382087683?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\nIf Hart continues to play the way he has this season and to start the tournament, he could remember the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs for much more than a memorable matchup with Price.<\/p>\nBut there's a kid in everyone. Then again, Hart is only 22 years old.<\/p>\n\"He\u2019s a special kid,\" Derek Grant said last week. \"He\u2019s so calm. He puts his mask on, you don\u2019t know how old he is.\"<\/p>\nWith his mask off, Hart hopefully enjoyed a little ice cream and soaked in the moment.<\/p>\nSports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \nSubscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \n<a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/canadiens-coach-claude-julien-hospitalized-chest-pain\">Canadiens head coach Julien hospitalized with chest pain<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/carter-hart-early-birthday-gift-flyers-beat-canadiens-game-1-1st-round-nhl-playoffs\">Enjoy that birthday, young man \u2014 Hart leads Flyers to a not-so-easy Game 1 win<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-vs-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-game-1-live-stream-storylines-more\">5 big storylines to watch in Flyers-Canadiens 1st-round series<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-playoff-series-1987-pregame-brawl\">Flyers-Canadiens playoff series reminds us of a brawl that changed hockey<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","safe_summary":"Ice cream and a memory against Carey Price serve as a reminder that Carter Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment. By Jordan Hall<\/p>\n"}]},"field_author_reference":{"und":[{"tid":"1056"}]},"field_bean_single_col":{"und":[{"target_id":"3706"}]},"field_chrome_page":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_date_published":{"und":[{"value":"2020-08-14 01:35:00","timezone":"America\/New_York","timezone_db":"UTC","date_type":"datetime"}]},"field_hero_image_credit":{"und":[{"value":"USA Today Images","format":null,"safe_value":"USA Today Images"}]},"field_image":{"und":[{"fid":"2518456","uid":"156","filename":"usa_carter_hart_carey_price.jpg","uri":"public:\/\/2020\/08\/09\/usa_carter_hart_carey_price.jpg","filemime":"image\/jpeg","filesize":"1479459","status":"1","timestamp":"1596989129","origname":"usa_carter_hart_carey_price.jpg","type":"image","field_file_image_alt_text":[],"field_file_image_title_text":[],"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":[],"metadata":{"height":845,"width":1500},"height":"845","width":"1500","alt":null,"title":null}]},"field_league":{"und":[{"tid":"196"}]},"field_section":{"und":[{"tid":"201"}]},"field_short_title":{"und":[{"value":"Ice cream and a memory remind us Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment","format":null,"safe_value":"Ice cream and a memory remind us Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment"}]},"field_sponsor":[],"field_sport":{"und":[{"tid":"191"}]},"field_tags":{"und":[{"tid":"34056"},{"tid":"33456"},{"tid":"2576"},{"tid":"10491"},{"tid":"10486"},{"tid":"5411"},{"tid":"466"},{"tid":"506"}]},"field_team":{"und":[{"tid":"141"}]},"field_top_story":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_video_autoplay":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_videos":{"und":[{"target_id":"799051"}]},"field_tags_hide":[],"field_video_automute":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_editorial_category":{"und":[{"value":"columns"}]},"field_allow_lld_domains":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_enable_stanza":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_exclude_from_yahoo":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"robots":{"value":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","noindex":0,"nofollow":0,"noarchive":0,"nosnippet":0,"noodp":0,"noydir":0,"noimageindex":0,"notranslate":0}},"news_keywords":{"value":"Carter Hart, Carey Price, Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens, NHL playoffs, 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Jordan Hall"}}},"path":{"pathauto":"0"},"name":"JHall","picture":"0","data":"b:0;"},"access":true},{"target_id":"820656","entity":{"vid":"869746","uid":"156","title":"Carter Hart provides early birthday gift as Flyers beat Canadiens in Game 1 of 1st-round NHL playoff series","log":"","status":"1","comment":"0","promote":"0","sticky":"0","nid":"820656","type":"article","language":"und","created":"1597277887","changed":"1597339690","tnid":"0","translate":"0","published":"1597287300","revision_timestamp":"1597339690","revision_uid":"156","body":{"und":[{"value":"<a href=\"http:\/\/scores.nbcsportsphiladelphia.com\/nhl\/boxscore.asp?gamecode=2020081215&home=15&vis=10&meta=true\" target=\"_blank\">BOX SCORE<\/a><\/p>Carter Hart will enjoy his birthday.<\/p>The young netminder delivered a big performance Wednesday night to help the Flyers earn a 2-1 win over the Canadiens in Game 1 of their best-of-seven first-round playoff series at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto.<\/p>So far, so good (in fact, really good) for Hart in his first taste of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.<\/p>Jakub Voracek and Joel Farabee scored goals for the top-seeded Flyers, who are off to a 4-0-0 start in the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament and have yet to trail once.<\/p>Over their last 14 games (10 in the regular season, four in tournament), the Flyers are 13-1-0 and have outscored the opposition 52-23 (plus-29 goal differential). The lone loss was to the Bruins, who finished the regular season with an NHL-best 100 points.<\/p>Wednesday was far from a picture-perfect performance but the Flyers did enough to grind it out, which they'll have to do at times against eighth-seeded Montreal.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293739378448244737?s=20<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/PR_NHL\/status\/1293751547961266177?s=20<\/p>\u2022 In the first chapter of the Hart-Carey Price showdown, the youngster got the better of the veteran.<\/p>Hart, who turned 22 years old at midnight, has been so steady early in games. He had to make only five saves in the opening frame but he hasn't allowed a first-period goal in his last seven games.<\/p>He was a life saver with 16 second-period saves and finished with 27 stops on 28 shots.<\/p>Through three games in the tournament, Hart is 3-0-0 with 84 saves on 87 shots. Can't ask for a better start from him. A major positive.<\/p>Price made a save on Scott Laughton that you'll see all over ESPN's SportsCenter and denied 29 shots. The Flyers know he'll be a tough out.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/CanadiensMTL\/status\/1293725591070552065?s=20<\/p>\u2022 After playing well following his jump to the first line in the round-robin finale with Voracek (undisclosed issue) out, Farabee stayed with Claude Giroux and Sean Couturier in Game 1.<\/p>The 20-year-old rookie winger continued his productive response to the opportunity, scoring a massive goal 16 seconds after Shea Weber tied the game at 1-1 in the second period.<\/p>Farabee went to the net, deflected Travis Sanheim's shot and then pounded home the rebound \u2014 so timely given Montreal had totally swung the momentum in its favor, putting the Flyers on their heels.<\/p>Farabee should stay on that line until he gives the Flyers a reason to not keep him there. He has three points (two goals, one assist) over three games in the 24-team tournament.<\/p><blockquote>He\u2019s been great for us,\" Ivan Provorov said postgame in a video interview. \"It\u2019s his first playoffs, but it doesn\u2019t look like it. He has poise, he\u2019s been making plays, he\u2019s been scoring and helping us big time. I think he deserves to play on that line and he contributes a lot. He\u2019s been going, I think he complements Coots and G really well.<\/p><\/blockquote>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293723496527417345?s=20<\/p>\u2022 The Flyers delivered a pair of early positive signs:<\/p>The power play struck on its first opportunity after going 0 for 11 through the three-game round robin. Provorov, who led all NHL defensemen in man advantage goals during the regular season with seven, blasted a shot from the point and Voracek must have just gotten a piece of it to hand the Flyers a 1-0 advantage.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/PR_NHL\/status\/1293755483740876802?s=20<\/p>The other positive was the ingredients to the goal. The Flyers went with a double screen on Price. Impeding the Montreal netminder's vision will be critical and the Flyers hammered home that point with Couturier and Voracek disrupting.<\/p>Not only is it an effective approach but it can also frustrate Price, who does not like being bumped or obstructed.<\/p>The power play finished 1 for 3 and missed out on a chance to provide insurance in the third period. It didn't cost the Flyers.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293706640999485442?s=20<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293710590108749827?s=20<\/p>\u2022 The second period was troubling for the Flyers. They got a taste of their own medicine. Typically, the Flyers are a team that wants to wear down the opposition with its effort and north-south style. The Flyers are not the fastest team, but the way in which they play makes them tough to play against, which was a huge initiative entering their turnaround season.<\/p>Montreal completely took it to them in the middle stanza. At one point, the Flyers were pinned in their own end and had three failed attempts to clear the puck.<\/p>Leading up to the series opener, Flyers head coach Alain Vigneault warned that Montreal seldom slows down in its pace or energy, which can sneak up on teams if you let it.<\/p>\"That\u2019s a team with real good team speed, there\u2019s no doubt that they work extremely hard,\" Vigneault said in a video interview before the game. \"Those two areas, watching the four games in that Pittsburgh series, caught everybody\u2019s attention. They were extremely quick and extremely hard-working.\"<\/p>Fortunately for the Flyers, Hart was strong and Farabee made his heads up play, allowing the Flyers to leave the second period with a 2-1 edge.<\/p>\u2022 Vigneault gave the Game 1 nod to Shayne Gostisbehere over Robert Hagg, who was the extra defenseman. Gostisbehere truly won his spot in the lineup with impressive work during camp, the exhibition game and one round-robin game.<\/p>He wasn't as impactful against the Canadiens as he was in the 4-1 round-robin win over the Lightning and looked a little shaky in the second period, but so did the Flyers as a whole. Gostisbehere didn't play a ton later in the third period as the Flyers shortened things up.<\/p>Not sure that's enough to sit him in Game 2 but the battle for the lineup will truly be a game-to-game situation. The playoffs are a game-to-game business.<\/p>\u2022 James van Riemsdyk was on the fourth line and played 11:40.<\/p>Nate Thompson, the former Canadien who centers the fourth line, missed a wide-open net late in the third period.<\/p>Overall, the Flyers didn't receive the depth efforts they got throughout the round robin, but the club's role players weren't awful, either.<\/p>The Flyers had a so-so game in general.<\/p>\u2022 The series continues Friday with Game 2 at 3 p.m. ET on NBCSP.<\/p>For the full series schedule, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-schedule-2020-nhl-playoffs-dates-game-times-broadcast-information\" target=\"_blank\">click here<\/a>.<\/p>The Flyers practice Thursday at 1 p.m. ET at the Ford Performance Centre.<\/p>Sports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p>Subscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p><a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p><h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3><ul><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-vs-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-game-1-live-stream-storylines-more\">5 big storylines to watch in Flyers-Canadiens 1st-round series<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-playoff-series-1987-pregame-brawl\">Flyers-Canadiens playoff series reminds us of a brawl that changed hockey<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-canadiens-hype-video-epic-movie-trailer\">Flyers vs. Canadiens hype video or epic movie trailer? You decide<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-first-round-flyers-canadiens-remembering-mike-richards-shift\">There\u2019s no better way to get ready for Flyers-Canadiens than \u2018The Shift\u2019<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><\/ul>","summary":"On the night before his 22nd birthday, Carter Hart was very good when the Flyers weren't at their best but still picked up a 2-1 win Wednesday in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series with the Canadiens. By Jordan Hall<\/p>","format":"filtered_html","safe_value":"<a href=\"http:\/\/scores.nbcsportsphiladelphia.com\/nhl\/boxscore.asp?gamecode=2020081215&home=15&vis=10&meta=true\" target=\"_blank\">BOX SCORE<\/a><\/p>\nCarter Hart will enjoy his birthday.<\/p>\nThe young netminder delivered a big performance Wednesday night to help the Flyers earn a 2-1 win over the Canadiens in Game 1 of their best-of-seven first-round playoff series at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto.<\/p>\nSo far, so good (in fact, really good) for Hart in his first taste of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.<\/p>\nJakub Voracek and Joel Farabee scored goals for the top-seeded Flyers, who are off to a 4-0-0 start in the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament and have yet to trail once.<\/p>\nOver their last 14 games (10 in the regular season, four in tournament), the Flyers are 13-1-0 and have outscored the opposition 52-23 (plus-29 goal differential). The lone loss was to the Bruins, who finished the regular season with an NHL-best 100 points.<\/p>\nWednesday was far from a picture-perfect performance but the Flyers did enough to grind it out, which they'll have to do at times against eighth-seeded Montreal.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">One down. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/EZJISrb9yv\">pic.twitter.com\/EZJISrb9yv<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293739378448244737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n <blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NHLFlyers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@NHLFlyers<\/a> won each of their first 4+ games in a postseason for the sixth time in franchise history. The other instances: 1974 (6-0) 1975 (7-0) 1978 (4-0) 1980 (6-0) 1985 (6-0)<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/hashtag\/NHLStats?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#NHLStats<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/hashtag\/StanleyCup?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#StanleyCup<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/TLjmJMp69H\">pic.twitter.com\/TLjmJMp69H<\/a><\/p>— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/PR_NHL\/status\/1293751547961266177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 In the first chapter of the Hart-Carey Price showdown, the youngster got the better of the veteran.<\/p>\nHart, who turned 22 years old at midnight, has been so steady early in games. He had to make only five saves in the opening frame but he hasn't allowed a first-period goal in his last seven games.<\/p>\nHe was a life saver with 16 second-period saves and finished with 27 stops on 28 shots.<\/p>\nThrough three games in the tournament, Hart is 3-0-0 with 84 saves on 87 shots. Can't ask for a better start from him. A major positive.<\/p>\nPrice made a save on Scott Laughton that you'll see all over ESPN's SportsCenter and denied 29 shots. The Flyers know he'll be a tough out.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">GOOD STICK CAREY \ud83e\udd2f<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/hashtag\/GoHabsGo?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#GoHabsGo<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/0apkZbtYbM\">pic.twitter.com\/0apkZbtYbM<\/a><\/p>— Canadiens Montr\u00e9al (@CanadiensMTL) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/CanadiensMTL\/status\/1293725591070552065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 After playing well following his jump to the first line in the round-robin finale with Voracek (undisclosed issue) out, Farabee stayed with Claude Giroux and Sean Couturier in Game 1.<\/p>\nThe 20-year-old rookie winger continued his productive response to the opportunity, scoring a massive goal 16 seconds after Shea Weber tied the game at 1-1 in the second period.<\/p>\nFarabee went to the net, deflected Travis Sanheim's shot and then pounded home the rebound \u2014 so timely given Montreal had totally swung the momentum in its favor, putting the Flyers on their heels.<\/p>\nFarabee should stay on that line until he gives the Flyers a reason to not keep him there. He has three points (two goals, one assist) over three games in the 24-team tournament.<\/p>\n<blockquote>He\u2019s been great for us,\" Ivan Provorov said postgame in a video interview. \"It\u2019s his first playoffs, but it doesn\u2019t look like it. He has poise, he\u2019s been making plays, he\u2019s been scoring and helping us big time. I think he deserves to play on that line and he contributes a lot. He\u2019s been going, I think he complements Coots and G really well.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">THAT \ud83d\udc4f WAS \ud83d\udc4f FAST \ud83d\udc4f Joel Farabee gets one back, Flyers lead 2-1. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/dQoNPUNoZ9\">pic.twitter.com\/dQoNPUNoZ9<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293723496527417345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 The Flyers delivered a pair of early positive signs:<\/p>\nThe power play struck on its first opportunity after going 0 for 11 through the three-game round robin. Provorov, who led all NHL defensemen in man advantage goals during the regular season with seven, blasted a shot from the point and Voracek must have just gotten a piece of it to hand the Flyers a 1-0 advantage.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">OFFICIAL SCORING CHANGE: Playoff Game 111<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/CanadiensMTL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@CanadiensMTL<\/a> at <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NHLFlyers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@NHLFlyers<\/a> Goal at 8:54 of first period now reads Jakub Voracek from Ivan Provorov and Claude Giroux. <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/hashtag\/NHLStats?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#NHLStats<\/a><\/p>— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/PR_NHL\/status\/1293755483740876802?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\nThe other positive was the ingredients to the goal. The Flyers went with a double screen on Price. Impeding the Montreal netminder's vision will be critical and the Flyers hammered home that point with Couturier and Voracek disrupting.<\/p>\nNot only is it an effective approach but it can also frustrate Price, who does not like being bumped or obstructed.<\/p>\nThe power play finished 1 for 3 and missed out on a chance to provide insurance in the third period. It didn't cost the Flyers.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Goal, scored. Lead, gained. Flyers up, 1-0. | <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/HerrsSnacks?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@HerrsSnacks<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/u4vkkFtwM0\">pic.twitter.com\/u4vkkFtwM0<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293706640999485442?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n <blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Carey Price was not happy about this. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/bhNYS8nIem\">pic.twitter.com\/bhNYS8nIem<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293710590108749827?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 The second period was troubling for the Flyers. They got a taste of their own medicine. Typically, the Flyers are a team that wants to wear down the opposition with its effort and north-south style. The Flyers are not the fastest team, but the way in which they play makes them tough to play against, which was a huge initiative entering their turnaround season.<\/p>\nMontreal completely took it to them in the middle stanza. At one point, the Flyers were pinned in their own end and had three failed attempts to clear the puck.<\/p>\nLeading up to the series opener, Flyers head coach Alain Vigneault warned that Montreal seldom slows down in its pace or energy, which can sneak up on teams if you let it.<\/p>\n\"That\u2019s a team with real good team speed, there\u2019s no doubt that they work extremely hard,\" Vigneault said in a video interview before the game. \"Those two areas, watching the four games in that Pittsburgh series, caught everybody\u2019s attention. They were extremely quick and extremely hard-working.\"<\/p>\nFortunately for the Flyers, Hart was strong and Farabee made his heads up play, allowing the Flyers to leave the second period with a 2-1 edge.<\/p>\n\u2022 Vigneault gave the Game 1 nod to Shayne Gostisbehere over Robert Hagg, who was the extra defenseman. Gostisbehere truly won his spot in the lineup with impressive work during camp, the exhibition game and one round-robin game.<\/p>\nHe wasn't as impactful against the Canadiens as he was in the 4-1 round-robin win over the Lightning and looked a little shaky in the second period, but so did the Flyers as a whole. Gostisbehere didn't play a ton later in the third period as the Flyers shortened things up.<\/p>\nNot sure that's enough to sit him in Game 2 but the battle for the lineup will truly be a game-to-game situation. The playoffs are a game-to-game business.<\/p>\n\u2022 James van Riemsdyk was on the fourth line and played 11:40.<\/p>\nNate Thompson, the former Canadien who centers the fourth line, missed a wide-open net late in the third period.<\/p>\nOverall, the Flyers didn't receive the depth efforts they got throughout the round robin, but the club's role players weren't awful, either.<\/p>\nThe Flyers had a so-so game in general.<\/p>\n\u2022 The series continues Friday with Game 2 at 3 p.m. ET on NBCSP.<\/p>\nFor the full series schedule, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-schedule-2020-nhl-playoffs-dates-game-times-broadcast-information\" target=\"_blank\">click here<\/a>.<\/p>\nThe Flyers practice Thursday at 1 p.m. ET at the Ford Performance Centre.<\/p>\nSports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \nSubscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \n<a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-vs-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-game-1-live-stream-storylines-more\">5 big storylines to watch in Flyers-Canadiens 1st-round series<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-playoff-series-1987-pregame-brawl\">Flyers-Canadiens playoff series reminds us of a brawl that changed hockey<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-canadiens-hype-video-epic-movie-trailer\">Flyers vs. Canadiens hype video or epic movie trailer? You decide<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-first-round-flyers-canadiens-remembering-mike-richards-shift\">There\u2019s no better way to get ready for Flyers-Canadiens than \u2018The Shift\u2019<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","safe_summary":"On the night before his 22nd birthday, Carter Hart was very good when the Flyers weren't at their best but still picked up a 2-1 win Wednesday in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series with the Canadiens. By Jordan Hall<\/p>\n"}]},"field_author_reference":{"und":[{"tid":"1056"}]},"field_bean_single_col":{"und":[{"target_id":"3706"}]},"field_chrome_page":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_date_published":{"und":[{"value":"2020-08-13 02:55:00","timezone":"America\/New_York","timezone_db":"UTC","date_type":"datetime"}]},"field_hero_image_credit":{"und":[{"value":"USA Today Images\/Dan Hamilton","format":null,"safe_value":"USA Today Images\/Dan Hamilton"}]},"field_image":{"und":[{"fid":"2525916","uid":"156","filename":"usa_carter_hart_joel_farabee.jpg","uri":"public:\/\/2020\/08\/12\/usa_carter_hart_joel_farabee.jpg","filemime":"image\/jpeg","filesize":"1077025","status":"1","timestamp":"1597291975","origname":"usa_carter_hart_2.jpg","type":"image","field_file_image_alt_text":[],"field_file_image_title_text":[],"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"title":{"value":"[current-page:title] | [current-page:pager][site:name]","default":"[current-page:title] | 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that birthday, young man \u2014 Hart leads Flyers to a not-so-easy Game 1 win","format":null,"safe_value":"Enjoy that birthday, young man \u2014 Hart leads Flyers to a not-so-easy Game 1 win"}]},"field_sponsor":[],"field_sport":{"und":[{"tid":"191"}]},"field_tags":{"und":[{"tid":"34056"},{"tid":"22636"},{"tid":"33456"},{"tid":"2576"},{"tid":"10491"},{"tid":"466"},{"tid":"506"}]},"field_team":{"und":[{"tid":"141"}]},"field_top_story":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_video_autoplay":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_videos":{"und":[{"target_id":"820706"}]},"field_tags_hide":[],"field_video_automute":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_editorial_category":{"und":[{"value":"analysis"}]},"field_allow_lld_domains":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_enable_stanza":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_exclude_from_yahoo":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"robots":{"value":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","noindex":0,"nofollow":0,"noarchive":0,"nosnippet":0,"noodp":0,"noydir":0,"noimageindex":0,"notranslate":0}},"news_keywords":{"value":"Flyers observations, Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens, Jordan Hall, NHL playoffs, 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs"}}},"path":{"pathauto":"0"},"name":"JHall","picture":"0","data":"b:0;"},"access":true},{"target_id":"819906","entity":{"vid":"868996","uid":"156","title":"Flyers-Canadiens schedule for 2020 NHL playoffs: Dates, game times, broadcast information","log":"","status":"1","comment":"0","promote":"0","sticky":"0","nid":"819906","type":"article","language":"und","created":"1597072222","changed":"1597111145","tnid":"0","translate":"0","published":"1597074600","revision_timestamp":"1597111145","revision_uid":"156","body":{"und":[{"value":"After sweeping the round robin to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-beat-lightning-sweep-round-robin-no-1-seed-2020-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">earn the Eastern Conference's No. 1 seed<\/a>, the Flyers on Wednesday will begin what they hope is a long and prosperous run through the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs.<\/p>Wednesday marks Game 1 of the Flyers' best-of-seven first-round series against the 12th-seeded (or the new eighth-seeded) Canadiens, who upset the Penguins in the best-of-five qualifying round.<\/p>As the higher seed, the Flyers are the home team for the first two games, as well as Games 5 and 7, if necessary. With no fans, the home-away distinction still holds importance because home teams are awarded the last line change in games, which can be critical to matchups when outcomes are in the balance.<\/p>For Game 3 on the national broadcast, NBC Sports Philadephia will still hold Flyers Pregame Live and Postgame Live shows with analysis and interviews. That will be the case for any games on the national broadcast.<\/p>Another thing to note is the potential back-to-back scenario with Games 4 and 5. Carter Hart played only once on no days rest during the regular season and it was in relief duty. Canadiens veteran goaltender Carey Price, who turns 33 years old on Sunday, played on no days rest four times, going 0-2-2 with a 3.76 goals-against average and .864 save percentage.<\/p>The Flyers went 2-1-0 against Montreal in the regular season, with a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-keep-late-fun-coming-thanks-overtime-win-canadiens-company-2011-12-team\" target=\"_blank\">3-2 overtime win Nov. 7<\/a>, a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-cap-special-november-enter-december-most-points-eric-lindros-led-1995-96-team\" target=\"_blank\">4-3 overtime victory Nov. 30<\/a> and a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-upended-canadiens-type-of-loss-always-seems-anger-fans\" target=\"_blank\">4-1 loss Jan. 16<\/a>.<\/p>Below is the full Flyers-Canadiens first-round schedule:<\/p>Game 1<\/strong> \u2014 Wednesday, Aug. 12, 8 p.m. ET, NBCSP Game 2<\/strong> \u2014 Friday, Aug. 14, 3 p.m. ET, NBCSP Game 3<\/strong> \u2014 Sunday, Aug. 16, 8 p.m. ET, NBC Game 4<\/strong> \u2014 Tuesday, Aug. 18, 3 p.m. ET, NBCSP Game 5<\/strong> \u2014 Wednesday, Aug. 19, TBD, TBD Game 6<\/strong> \u2014 Friday, Aug. 21, TBD, TBD Game 7<\/strong> \u2014 Sunday, Aug. 23, TBD, TBD<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1293003719961915393?s=20<\/p>Below are the schedules for the other seven first-round series:<\/p><h2>Eastern Conference<\/strong><\/h2>[[{\"fid\":\"2520491\",\"view_mode\":\"default\",\"fields\":{\"format\":\"default\",\"field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]\":false,\"field_file_image_title_text[und][0][value]\":false},\"type\":\"media\",\"field_deltas\":{\"1\":{\"format\":\"default\",\"field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]\":false,\"field_file_image_title_text[und][0][value]\":false}},\"attributes\":{\"class\":\"media-element file-default\",\"data-delta\":\"1\"}}]]<\/p><h2>Western Conference<\/strong><\/h2>[[{\"fid\":\"2520501\",\"view_mode\":\"default\",\"fields\":{\"format\":\"default\",\"field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]\":false,\"field_file_image_title_text[und][0][value]\":false},\"type\":\"media\",\"field_deltas\":{\"2\":{\"format\":\"default\",\"field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]\":false,\"field_file_image_title_text[und][0][value]\":false}},\"attributes\":{\"class\":\"media-element file-default\",\"data-delta\":\"2\"}}]]<\/p>Sports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p>Subscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/c143960b-2aaf-420e-a2b2-cc53dce8aba7\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p><a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p><h3 dir=\"ltr\">More Flyers analysis for playoffs<\/strong><\/h3>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-stanley-cup-odds-flyers-golden-knights-draftkings-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Cup crazy? East's top-seeded Flyers have great odds<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-beat-lightning-sweep-round-robin-no-1-seed-2020-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">How sweep it is \u2014 Flyers run through round robin, earn East's No. 1 seed<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-out-james-van-riemsdyk-back-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs-round-robin-lightning\" target=\"_blank\">Voracek out, JVR back after interesting scratch and more Flyers changes<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dont-expect-flyers-be-mingling-rivals-hotel-x-toronto-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Don't expect the Flyers to be mingling with their rivals at Hotel X Toronto<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Costly injury comes at interesting time, creates more decisions for Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p><section id=\"carousel-wrapper\">\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-team-hot-streak-round-robin\" target=\"_blank\">The Flyers were never on a hot streak \u2014 they're just that good<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-stanley-cup-predictions\" target=\"_blank\">Can the Flyers go all the way? Our Stanley Cup predictions are here<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/picture-collage-and-signs-show-love-flyers-they-eye-stanley-cup-run-toronto\" target=\"_blank\">Picture collage and signs show love for Flyers as they eye Cup run in Toronto<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/sean-couturier-nhl-playoffs-bubble-stanley-cup-item-baby-book\" target=\"_blank\">Couturier's goals in NHL bubble: Stanley Cup and an important baby book item<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-shirts\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers announce playoff roster, have fans going crazy over shirts<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-stanley-cup-odds-flyers-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">All types of Flyers odds (including the Cup) in NHL's 24-team tourney<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dave-scott-couldnt-be-happier-flyers-chuck-fletcher-theres-more-action-be-done\" target=\"_blank\">Scott 'couldn't be happier' with Flyers, but there's more action to be done<\/a><\/strong><\/p><\/section>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-flyers-contract-signed-extension\" target=\"_blank\">Lindblom has new contract, his comeback is on with Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-canadiens-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_self\">Flyers-Canadiens is perfect on paper, but would it be a trap?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-explains-absence-flyers-training-camp-scrimmage\" target=\"_blank\">What happened? Voracek says calm down, he's fine ... now you know<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <\/b><\/font><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-shirts-sale-fans\" target=\"_blank\">Fans can purchase Flyers playoff shirts with new slogan<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-training-camp-day-1-different-times\" target=\"_blank\">What it was like to go back to work at Flyers practice in different times<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-odds-24-team-tournament-season\" target=\"_blank\">5 questions on Flyers' chances in 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/predictions-flyers-lineup-nhl-24-team-stanley-cup-playoffs-plan-return-coronavirus-suspension\" target=\"_blank\">Predictions for Flyers' best Game 1 lineup to start 24-team playoff<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-top-5-reinforcements\" target=\"_blank\">Who are the Flyers' top 5 reinforcements for 24-team tournament?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/brian-elliott-has-sweet-new-goalie-mask-flyers-nhl-playoffs-run\" target=\"_blank\">Elliott has sweet new mask for Flyers' playoff run<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-sign-mark-friedman-2-year-contract-extension\" target=\"_self\">Flyers sign a player to extension at position of strength<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-nhl-nhlpa-ratify-return-to-play-cba-schedule\" target=\"_blank\">What to know as NHL, NHLPA finish big step, announce schedule<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-free-agency-justin-braun-derek-grant-flyers\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers have two top 50 pending UFAs; will they re-sign them?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-2020-format-details-plan-stanley-cup-24-team-tournament\" target=\"_blank\">Everything Flyers fans need to know for NHL's 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/gary-bettman-flyers-mascot-gritty-cant-be-toronto-bubble-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Bettman gives Gritty the hard truth for why he can't be in Toronto bubble<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-key-dates-coronavirus-testing-protocols-return-to-play\" target=\"_blank\">Key dates, protocols announced as Flyers return<\/a><\/strong><\/p>","summary":"A look at the Flyers-Canadiens schedule for the first round of the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs. By Jordan Hall<\/p>","format":"filtered_html","safe_value":"After sweeping the round robin to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-beat-lightning-sweep-round-robin-no-1-seed-2020-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">earn the Eastern Conference's No. 1 seed<\/a>, the Flyers on Wednesday will begin what they hope is a long and prosperous run through the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs.<\/p>\nWednesday marks Game 1 of the Flyers' best-of-seven first-round series against the 12th-seeded (or the new eighth-seeded) Canadiens, who upset the Penguins in the best-of-five qualifying round.<\/p>\nAs the higher seed, the Flyers are the home team for the first two games, as well as Games 5 and 7, if necessary. With no fans, the home-away distinction still holds importance because home teams are awarded the last line change in games, which can be critical to matchups when outcomes are in the balance.<\/p>\nFor Game 3 on the national broadcast, NBC Sports Philadephia will still hold Flyers Pregame Live and Postgame Live shows with analysis and interviews. That will be the case for any games on the national broadcast.<\/p>\nAnother thing to note is the potential back-to-back scenario with Games 4 and 5. Carter Hart played only once on no days rest during the regular season and it was in relief duty. Canadiens veteran goaltender Carey Price, who turns 33 years old on Sunday, played on no days rest four times, going 0-2-2 with a 3.76 goals-against average and .864 save percentage.<\/p>\nThe Flyers went 2-1-0 against Montreal in the regular season, with a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-keep-late-fun-coming-thanks-overtime-win-canadiens-company-2011-12-team\" target=\"_blank\">3-2 overtime win Nov. 7<\/a>, a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-cap-special-november-enter-december-most-points-eric-lindros-led-1995-96-team\" target=\"_blank\">4-3 overtime victory Nov. 30<\/a> and a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-upended-canadiens-type-of-loss-always-seems-anger-fans\" target=\"_blank\">4-1 loss Jan. 16<\/a>.<\/p>\nBelow is the full Flyers-Canadiens first-round schedule:<\/p>\nGame 1<\/strong> \u2014 Wednesday, Aug. 12, 8 p.m. ET, NBCSP Game 2<\/strong> \u2014 Friday, Aug. 14, 3 p.m. ET, NBCSP Game 3<\/strong> \u2014 Sunday, Aug. 16, 8 p.m. ET, NBC Game 4<\/strong> \u2014 Tuesday, Aug. 18, 3 p.m. ET, NBCSP Game 5<\/strong> \u2014 Wednesday, Aug. 19, TBD, TBD Game 6<\/strong> \u2014 Friday, Aug. 21, TBD, TBD Game 7<\/strong> \u2014 Sunday, Aug. 23, TBD, TBD<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Including round robin and regular season, Flyers are 17-6-3 vs. seven remaining teams in East playoff field: 2. Lightning \u2014 1-2-0 3. Capitals \u2014 4-0-1 4. Bruins \u2014 3-1-0 5. Hurricanes \u2014 3-0-1 6. Islanders \u2014 0-2-1 7. Blue Jackets \u2014 4-0-0 8. Canadiens \u2014 2-1-0<\/p>— Jordan Hall (@JHallNBCS) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1293003719961915393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 11, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\nBelow are the schedules for the other seven first-round series:<\/p>\n<h2>Eastern Conference<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div class=\"media media-element-container media-default\"><div id=\"file-2520491--54\" class=\"file file-image file-image-jpeg\">\r\n\r\n <h2 class=\"element-invisible\"><a href=\"\/files\/eastjpg\">east.jpg<\/a><\/h2>\r\n \r\n \r\n <div class=\"content\">\r\n <img class=\"media-element file-default\" data-delta=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/sites\/csnphilly\/files\/east.jpg\" width=\"1401\" height=\"817\" alt=\"\" \/> <\/div>\r\n\r\n \r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div><\/p>\n<h2>Western Conference<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div class=\"media media-element-container media-default\"><div id=\"file-2520501--54\" class=\"file file-image file-image-jpeg\">\r\n\r\n <h2 class=\"element-invisible\"><a href=\"\/files\/westjpg\">west.jpg<\/a><\/h2>\r\n \r\n \r\n <div class=\"content\">\r\n <img class=\"media-element file-default\" data-delta=\"2\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/sites\/csnphilly\/files\/west.jpg\" width=\"1416\" height=\"1083\" alt=\"\" \/> <\/div>\r\n\r\n \r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div><\/p>\nSports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \nSubscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/c143960b-2aaf-420e-a2b2-cc53dce8aba7\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \n<a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\">More Flyers analysis for playoffs<\/strong><\/h3>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-stanley-cup-odds-flyers-golden-knights-draftkings-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Cup crazy? East's top-seeded Flyers have great odds<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-beat-lightning-sweep-round-robin-no-1-seed-2020-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">How sweep it is \u2014 Flyers run through round robin, earn East's No. 1 seed<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-out-james-van-riemsdyk-back-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs-round-robin-lightning\" target=\"_blank\">Voracek out, JVR back after interesting scratch and more Flyers changes<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dont-expect-flyers-be-mingling-rivals-hotel-x-toronto-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Don't expect the Flyers to be mingling with their rivals at Hotel X Toronto<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Costly injury comes at interesting time, creates more decisions for Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-team-hot-streak-round-robin\" target=\"_blank\">The Flyers were never on a hot streak \u2014 they're just that good<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-stanley-cup-predictions\" target=\"_blank\">Can the Flyers go all the way? Our Stanley Cup predictions are here<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/picture-collage-and-signs-show-love-flyers-they-eye-stanley-cup-run-toronto\" target=\"_blank\">Picture collage and signs show love for Flyers as they eye Cup run in Toronto<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/sean-couturier-nhl-playoffs-bubble-stanley-cup-item-baby-book\" target=\"_blank\">Couturier's goals in NHL bubble: Stanley Cup and an important baby book item<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-shirts\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers announce playoff roster, have fans going crazy over shirts<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-stanley-cup-odds-flyers-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">All types of Flyers odds (including the Cup) in NHL's 24-team tourney<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dave-scott-couldnt-be-happier-flyers-chuck-fletcher-theres-more-action-be-done\" target=\"_blank\">Scott 'couldn't be happier' with Flyers, but there's more action to be done<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-flyers-contract-signed-extension\" target=\"_blank\">Lindblom has new contract, his comeback is on with Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-canadiens-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_self\">Flyers-Canadiens is perfect on paper, but would it be a trap?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-explains-absence-flyers-training-camp-scrimmage\" target=\"_blank\">What happened? Voracek says calm down, he's fine ... now you know<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-shirts-sale-fans\" target=\"_blank\">Fans can purchase Flyers playoff shirts with new slogan<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-training-camp-day-1-different-times\" target=\"_blank\">What it was like to go back to work at Flyers practice in different times<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-odds-24-team-tournament-season\" target=\"_blank\">5 questions on Flyers' chances in 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/predictions-flyers-lineup-nhl-24-team-stanley-cup-playoffs-plan-return-coronavirus-suspension\" target=\"_blank\">Predictions for Flyers' best Game 1 lineup to start 24-team playoff<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-top-5-reinforcements\" target=\"_blank\">Who are the Flyers' top 5 reinforcements for 24-team tournament?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/brian-elliott-has-sweet-new-goalie-mask-flyers-nhl-playoffs-run\" target=\"_blank\">Elliott has sweet new mask for Flyers' playoff run<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-sign-mark-friedman-2-year-contract-extension\" target=\"_self\">Flyers sign a player to extension at position of strength<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-nhl-nhlpa-ratify-return-to-play-cba-schedule\" target=\"_blank\">What to know as NHL, NHLPA finish big step, announce schedule<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-free-agency-justin-braun-derek-grant-flyers\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers have two top 50 pending UFAs; will they re-sign them?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-2020-format-details-plan-stanley-cup-24-team-tournament\" target=\"_blank\">Everything Flyers fans need to know for NHL's 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/gary-bettman-flyers-mascot-gritty-cant-be-toronto-bubble-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Bettman gives Gritty the hard truth for why he can't be in Toronto bubble<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-key-dates-coronavirus-testing-protocols-return-to-play\" target=\"_blank\">Key dates, protocols announced as Flyers return<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n","safe_summary":"A look at the Flyers-Canadiens schedule for the first round of the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs. By Jordan Hall<\/p>\n"}]},"field_author_reference":{"und":[{"tid":"1056"}]},"field_bean_single_col":{"und":[{"target_id":"3706"}]},"field_chrome_page":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_date_published":{"und":[{"value":"2020-08-10 15:50:00","timezone":"America\/New_York","timezone_db":"UTC","date_type":"datetime"}]},"field_hero_image_credit":{"und":[{"value":"USA Today Images","format":null,"safe_value":"USA Today Images"}]},"field_image":{"und":[{"fid":"2520481","uid":"156","filename":"usa_carter_hart_carey_price_flyers_canadiens.jpg","uri":"public:\/\/2020\/08\/10\/usa_carter_hart_carey_price_flyers_canadiens.jpg","filemime":"image\/jpeg","filesize":"1498563","status":"1","timestamp":"1597071978","origname":"usa_carter_hart_carey_price_flyers_canadiens.jpg","type":"image","field_file_image_alt_text":[],"field_file_image_title_text":[],"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":[],"metadata":{"height":845,"width":1500},"height":"845","width":"1500","alt":null,"title":null}]},"field_league":{"und":[{"tid":"196"}]},"field_section":{"und":[{"tid":"201"}]},"field_short_title":{"und":[{"value":"A look at Flyers-Canadiens schedule with different aspects to note","format":null,"safe_value":"A look at Flyers-Canadiens schedule with different aspects to note"}]},"field_sponsor":[],"field_sport":{"und":[{"tid":"191"}]},"field_tags":{"und":[{"tid":"34056"},{"tid":"10491"},{"tid":"33456"},{"tid":"2576"},{"tid":"27086"},{"tid":"466"},{"tid":"506"}]},"field_team":{"und":[{"tid":"141"}]},"field_top_story":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_video_autoplay":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_videos":{"und":[{"target_id":"819581"}]},"field_tags_hide":[],"field_video_automute":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_editorial_category":{"und":[{"value":"analysis"}]},"field_allow_lld_domains":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_enable_stanza":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_exclude_from_yahoo":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"robots":{"value":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","noindex":0,"nofollow":0,"noarchive":0,"nosnippet":0,"noodp":0,"noydir":0,"noimageindex":0,"notranslate":0}},"news_keywords":{"value":"Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens, NHL playoffs schedule, Flyers-Canadiens schedule, Jordan Hall"}}},"path":{"pathauto":"1"},"name":"JHall","picture":"0","data":"b:0;"},"access":true},{"target_id":"819521","entity":{"vid":"868601","uid":"156","title":"Flyers sweep round robin, earn East's No. 1 seed in 2020 NHL playoffs","log":"","status":"1","comment":"0","promote":"0","sticky":"0","nid":"819521","type":"article","language":"und","created":"1596931637","changed":"1597091184","tnid":"0","translate":"0","published":"1596942000","revision_timestamp":"1597091184","revision_uid":"156","body":{"und":[{"value":"<a href=\"http:\/\/scores.nbcsportsphiladelphia.com\/nhl\/boxscore.asp?gamecode=2020080920&home=20&vis=15\" target=\"_blank\">BOX SCORE<\/a><\/p>Heading into the first round of the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs, everyone is looking up at the Flyers.<\/p>For the first time since 2000, the Flyers will be the Eastern Conference's No. 1 seed in the postseason after winning the round robin of the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament.<\/p>They punctuated their climb Saturday night with a 4-1 win over the Lightning at Scotiabank Arena in the Eastern Conference's hub city Toronto.<\/p>Nicolas Aube-Kubel had a big game with two goals, while Joel Farabee and Tyler Pitlick tallied markers, as well.<\/p>After going 3-0-0 through the round robin, the top-seeded Flyers will face the 12th-seeded Canadiens in the first round of the playoffs.<\/p>Back in 2000, the year of the Flyers' five-overtime playoff classic with the Penguins, the team lost the Eastern Conference Final to the eventual champion Devils in seven games.<\/p>Twenty years later, it's the No. 1 seed again.<\/p>\"We're excited here,\" Farabee said postgame in a video interview. \"We're ready to go dancing.\"<\/p>\u2022 Just how impressive were the Flyers in the round robin? They swept the Bruins, Capitals and Lightning by a combined score of 11-3.<\/p>Pretty darn good tune-up for the Flyers as the real deal begins next week. They've always been a confident team, particularly from January on, but this was a measuring-stick round-robin tourney and they turned heads.<\/p>The Capitals and Bruins finish the round robin Sunday (noon ET).<\/p>1. Flyers<\/strong> \u2014 3-0-0, six points 2. Lightning<\/strong> \u2014 2-1-0, four points 3. Capitals<\/strong> \u2014 0-1-1, one point 4. Bruins<\/strong> \u2014 0-2-0, zero points<\/p>\u2022 NBC Sports analyst Keith Jones mentioned at intermission how the Flyers come at their opponents in waves. Their depth was excellent through the round robin and will be arguably their biggest difference-maker in a playoff run.<\/p>In the round robin, Claude Giroux went scoreless, James van Riemsdyk went scoreless in two games, Jakub Voracek had an assist in two games, Sean Couturier had a few assists, Travis Konecny (two assists) didn't have to score a goal, Kevin Hayes (four assists) didn't have to score a goal, and the Flyers convincingly earned the No. 1 seed.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1292319384468422657?s=20<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1292470200185626625?s=20<\/p>\u2022 Carter Hart, who turns 22 years old next Thursday, looks primed for the first round.<\/p>The Bruins had an NHL-most 100 points during the regular season. The Lightning scored an NHL-best 3.47 goals per game. Hart totaled 57 saves on 59 shots in matchups with those clubs.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1292300577523863553?s=20<\/p>\u2022 In 2018-19, Aube-Kubel got his first taste of the NHL ... hardly. Called up from AHL affiliate Lehigh Valley, Aube-Kubel went scoreless in a nine-game stint with the big club, playing only 5:35 minutes per night.<\/p>\u201cIt\u2019s pretty hard, especially when you spend some 15 minutes without playing, 10 minutes without playing, so it\u2019s really hard for the legs,\" Aube-Kubel said in February about the limited minutes last season. \"When you\u2019re out there, you\u2019re just so stressed about not making a mistake that you don\u2019t really show anything.<\/p>\u201cLast year, I didn\u2019t really get a good chance to show what I could do. I\u2019m glad this year \u2026 even in my first game, I got put in a good situation with good players and it worked out for me.\u201d<\/p>In 2019-20, the Flyers eventually summoned Aube-Kubel in mid-December. The new coaching staff has done a solid job of giving him opportunity but also constantly keeping him motivated. It's resulted in a hungry, hard-working, forechecking winger who gave the Flyers a monstrous boost against the Lightning with the club's first two goals.<\/p>In a game against the loaded Lightning, the 24-year-old Aube-Kubel was one of the best players on the ice. During training camp last month, he mentioned how his style of play suits the playoffs. It sure looked like it Saturday. The Flyers would love that type of effort and jolt throughout the playoffs.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1292259258294308866?s=20<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1292261177179934720?s=20<\/p>\u2022 It appears the Flyers avoided what would have been a costly injury right before the first round.<\/p>Travis Sanheim left the game 22 seconds into the second period after taking a hit from Blake Coleman. It looked Sanheim was nursing his wrist or arm after the check as he went up the tunnel.<\/p>Fortunately for the Flyers, Sanheim returned later in the period.<\/p>\u2022 An injury scare like that creates a reminder of the Flyers' young, promising stable of blueliners. Playing his first round-robin game, Shayne Gostisbehere reminded everyone of his game.<\/p>If Gostisbehere is the Flyers' seventh defenseman, he did everything to potentially shake that status moving forward. Gostisbehere, who has had to undergo arthroscopic surgeries on both of his knees in 2020, had a good camp and said he has felt \"10 times better\" compared to during the regular season.<\/p>Against Tampa Bay, he looked like his mobile, confident, making-things-happen self from the blue line, recording two assists and a plus-2 rating. Gostisbehere made a sharp play to help create Aube-Kubel's first goal and showed his vision to assist Farabee's goal, which was a big one as it extended the Flyers' lead to 3-1 in the middle frame.<\/p>\"That was a hard pass from Ghost, it takes a special skill set to be able to one-time that,\" Flyers head coach Alain Vigneault said postgame in a video interview. \"Great play by Ghost but also great shot by Joel.\"<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1292275800281055233?s=20<\/p>The 27-year-old offensive-minded defenseman displayed good instincts defensively, as well.<\/p>A performance like that will have Vigneault thinking, that's for sure. The sixth and final spot on defense will come down to Robert Hagg and Gostisbehere. Hagg likely has the slight edge for now, but Gostisbehere has drawn much closer and should be called upon if the Flyers don't have a positive start to the first round.<\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-out-james-van-riemsdyk-back-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs-round-robin-lightning\" target=\"_blank\">With Voracek out (undisclosed issue)<\/a>, Farabee jumped to the first line. Given he opened the tournament fighting for a spot in the lineup and likely the bottom six, this was a golden opportunity for the 20-year-old rookie winger.<\/p>He took advantage of it pretty well, scoring a goal and tallying an assist. His game allows him to scale the lineup but he truly stands out when he's with talented players. Good stuff from him and he's pushing for a bigger role, especially depending on the statuses of Voracek and Michael Raffl (undisclosed injury), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">who missed the final two games of the round robin<\/a>.<\/p>\"You look at our lineup, we have such great depth,\" Farabee said postgame in a video interview. \"Ghosty and I are sliding in, we've got guys sliding out, coming back in, it just goes to show how good of a team we are and how deep we are.\"<\/p>\u2022 The power play never really got going during the round robin as the Flyers finished 0 for 11 through the three games. That will have to be better over a course of a best-of-seven series.<\/p>\u2022 The Flyers caught some breaks throughout the round robin, but give them credit for taking advantage of those breaks.<\/p>They didn't face Vezina Trophy finalist Tuukka Rask in the 4-1 win over the Bruins. They didn't see James Norris Memorial Trophy finalist John Carlson in the 3-1 win over the Capitals.<\/p>Against the Lightning, they avoided Steven Stamkos (lower-body injury), who had 66 points in 57 games during the regular season. In the first period, Tampa Bay also lost stud defenseman Victor Hedman (undisclosed injury), who is also a finalist for the Norris Trophy.<\/p>These games weren't necessarily close, though, either \u2014 the Flyers did damage against three of the best clubs in the NHL.<\/p>\u2022 As the No. 1 seed in the first round, the Flyers face the 12th-seeded Canadiens, who upset the fifth-seeded Penguins in the best-of-five qualifying round, taking the series 3-1.<\/p>The Flyers went 2-1-0 against Montreal in the regular season, with a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-keep-late-fun-coming-thanks-overtime-win-canadiens-company-2011-12-team\" target=\"_blank\">3-2 overtime win Nov. 7<\/a>, a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-cap-special-november-enter-december-most-points-eric-lindros-led-1995-96-team\" target=\"_blank\">4-3 overtime victory Nov. 30<\/a> and a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-upended-canadiens-type-of-loss-always-seems-anger-fans\" target=\"_blank\">4-1 loss Jan. 16<\/a>.<\/p>The first round of the playoffs is scheduled to begin next Tuesday. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-schedule-2020-nhl-playoffs-dates-game-times-broadcast-information\" target=\"_blank\">The Flyers' schedule<\/a> is to be determined.<\/p>Sports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p>Subscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/c143960b-2aaf-420e-a2b2-cc53dce8aba7\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p><a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p><h3 dir=\"ltr\">More Flyers analysis for 24-team tournament<\/strong><\/h3>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-out-james-van-riemsdyk-back-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs-round-robin-lightning\" target=\"_blank\">Voracek out, JVR back after interesting scratch and more Flyers changes<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dont-expect-flyers-be-mingling-rivals-hotel-x-toronto-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Don't expect the Flyers to be mingling with their rivals at Hotel X Toronto<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Costly injury comes at interesting time, creates more decisions for Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p><section id=\"carousel-wrapper\">\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-team-hot-streak-round-robin\" target=\"_blank\">The Flyers were never on a hot streak \u2014 they're just that good<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-stanley-cup-predictions\" target=\"_blank\">Can the Flyers go all the way? Our Stanley Cup predictions are here<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/picture-collage-and-signs-show-love-flyers-they-eye-stanley-cup-run-toronto\" target=\"_blank\">Picture collage and signs show love for Flyers as they eye Cup run in Toronto<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/sean-couturier-nhl-playoffs-bubble-stanley-cup-item-baby-book\" target=\"_blank\">Couturier's goals in NHL bubble: Stanley Cup and an important baby book item<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-blue-jackets-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_blank\">Could Flyers still share the wealth against Blue Jackets in 1st round?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-shirts\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers announce playoff roster, have fans going crazy over shirts<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-stanley-cup-odds-flyers-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">All types of Flyers odds (including the Cup) in NHL's 24-team tourney<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dave-scott-couldnt-be-happier-flyers-chuck-fletcher-theres-more-action-be-done\" target=\"_blank\">Scott 'couldn't be happier' with Flyers, but there's more action to be done<\/a><\/strong><\/p><\/section>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-flyers-contract-signed-extension\" target=\"_blank\">Lindblom has new contract, his comeback is on with Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-canadiens-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_self\">Flyers-Canadiens is perfect on paper, but would it be a trap?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-explains-absence-flyers-training-camp-scrimmage\" target=\"_blank\">What happened? Voracek says calm down, he's fine ... now you know<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <\/b><\/font><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-shirts-sale-fans\" target=\"_blank\">Fans can purchase Flyers playoff shirts with new slogan<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-training-camp-day-1-different-times\" target=\"_blank\">What it was like to go back to work at Flyers practice in different times<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-odds-24-team-tournament-season\" target=\"_blank\">5 questions on Flyers' chances in 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/predictions-flyers-lineup-nhl-24-team-stanley-cup-playoffs-plan-return-coronavirus-suspension\" target=\"_blank\">Predictions for Flyers' best Game 1 lineup to start 24-team playoff<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-top-5-reinforcements\" target=\"_blank\">Who are the Flyers' top 5 reinforcements for 24-team tournament?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/brian-elliott-has-sweet-new-goalie-mask-flyers-nhl-playoffs-run\" target=\"_blank\">Elliott has sweet new mask for Flyers' playoff run<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-sign-mark-friedman-2-year-contract-extension\" target=\"_self\">Flyers sign a player to extension at position of strength<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-nhl-nhlpa-ratify-return-to-play-cba-schedule\" target=\"_blank\">What to know as NHL, NHLPA finish big step, announce schedule<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-free-agency-justin-braun-derek-grant-flyers\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers have two top 50 pending UFAs; will they re-sign them?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-2020-format-details-plan-stanley-cup-24-team-tournament\" target=\"_blank\">Everything Flyers fans need to know for NHL's 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/gary-bettman-flyers-mascot-gritty-cant-be-toronto-bubble-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Bettman gives Gritty the hard truth for why he can't be in Toronto bubble<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-key-dates-coronavirus-testing-protocols-return-to-play\" target=\"_blank\">Key dates, protocols announced as Flyers return<\/a><\/strong><\/p>","summary":"For the first time since 2000, the Flyers will be the Eastern Conference's No. 1 seed in the postseason after beating the Lightning, 4-1, Saturday night to win the round robin of the NHL's 24-team tournament. By Jordan Hall<\/p>","format":"filtered_html","safe_value":"<a href=\"http:\/\/scores.nbcsportsphiladelphia.com\/nhl\/boxscore.asp?gamecode=2020080920&home=20&vis=15\" target=\"_blank\">BOX SCORE<\/a><\/p>\nHeading into the first round of the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs, everyone is looking up at the Flyers.<\/p>\nFor the first time since 2000, the Flyers will be the Eastern Conference's No. 1 seed in the postseason after winning the round robin of the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament.<\/p>\nThey punctuated their climb Saturday night with a 4-1 win over the Lightning at Scotiabank Arena in the Eastern Conference's hub city Toronto.<\/p>\nNicolas Aube-Kubel had a big game with two goals, while Joel Farabee and Tyler Pitlick tallied markers, as well.<\/p>\nAfter going 3-0-0 through the round robin, the top-seeded Flyers will face the 12th-seeded Canadiens in the first round of the playoffs.<\/p>\nBack in 2000, the year of the Flyers' five-overtime playoff classic with the Penguins, the team lost the Eastern Conference Final to the eventual champion Devils in seven games.<\/p>\nTwenty years later, it's the No. 1 seed again.<\/p>\n\"We're excited here,\" Farabee said postgame in a video interview. \"We're ready to go dancing.\"<\/p>\n\u2022 Just how impressive were the Flyers in the round robin? They swept the Bruins, Capitals and Lightning by a combined score of 11-3.<\/p>\nPretty darn good tune-up for the Flyers as the real deal begins next week. They've always been a confident team, particularly from January on, but this was a measuring-stick round-robin tourney and they turned heads.<\/p>\nThe Capitals and Bruins finish the round robin Sunday (noon ET).<\/p>\n1. Flyers<\/strong> \u2014 3-0-0, six points 2. Lightning<\/strong> \u2014 2-1-0, four points 3. Capitals<\/strong> \u2014 0-1-1, one point 4. Bruins<\/strong> \u2014 0-2-0, zero points<\/p>\n\u2022 NBC Sports analyst Keith Jones mentioned at intermission how the Flyers come at their opponents in waves. Their depth was excellent through the round robin and will be arguably their biggest difference-maker in a playoff run.<\/p>\nIn the round robin, Claude Giroux went scoreless, James van Riemsdyk went scoreless in two games, Jakub Voracek had an assist in two games, Sean Couturier had a few assists, Travis Konecny (two assists) didn't have to score a goal, Kevin Hayes (four assists) didn't have to score a goal, and the Flyers convincingly earned the No. 1 seed.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Flyers' goal-scorers in round robin: Laughton \u2014 3 Aube-Kubel \u2014 2 Thompson \u2014 1 Pitlick \u2014 1 Farabee \u2014\u00a01 Myers \u2014 1 Sanheim \u2014 1 Raffl \u2014\u00a01 Only one had double-digit goals in the regular season (Laughton) and none were in the Flyers' top five. Impressive, impressive depth.<\/p>— Jordan Hall (@JHallNBCS) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1292319384468422657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 9, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n <blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Claude Giroux's 14:05 ice time was his fewest minutes played in a game since 2017-18 season. Flyers beat Lightning by 3 goals. The more Flyers can spread minutes, the more effort they can exude on each shift \u2014 hard-on-attack, north-south, forechecking style to wear teams down.<\/p>— Jordan Hall (@JHallNBCS) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1292470200185626625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 9, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 Carter Hart, who turns 22 years old next Thursday, looks primed for the first round.<\/p>\nThe Bruins had an NHL-most 100 points during the regular season. The Lightning scored an NHL-best 3.47 goals per game. Hart totaled 57 saves on 59 shots in matchups with those clubs.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">We can\u2019t say this is true, but we can\u2019t say this is not not true. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/AUExbaKvPS\">pic.twitter.com\/AUExbaKvPS<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1292300577523863553?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 9, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 In 2018-19, Aube-Kubel got his first taste of the NHL ... hardly. Called up from AHL affiliate Lehigh Valley, Aube-Kubel went scoreless in a nine-game stint with the big club, playing only 5:35 minutes per night.<\/p>\n\u201cIt\u2019s pretty hard, especially when you spend some 15 minutes without playing, 10 minutes without playing, so it\u2019s really hard for the legs,\" Aube-Kubel said in February about the limited minutes last season. \"When you\u2019re out there, you\u2019re just so stressed about not making a mistake that you don\u2019t really show anything.<\/p>\n\u201cLast year, I didn\u2019t really get a good chance to show what I could do. I\u2019m glad this year \u2026 even in my first game, I got put in a good situation with good players and it worked out for me.\u201d<\/p>\nIn 2019-20, the Flyers eventually summoned Aube-Kubel in mid-December. The new coaching staff has done a solid job of giving him opportunity but also constantly keeping him motivated. It's resulted in a hungry, hard-working, forechecking winger who gave the Flyers a monstrous boost against the Lightning with the club's first two goals.<\/p>\nIn a game against the loaded Lightning, the 24-year-old Aube-Kubel was one of the best players on the ice. During training camp last month, he mentioned how his style of play suits the playoffs. It sure looked like it Saturday. The Flyers would love that type of effort and jolt throughout the playoffs.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">PHILLY STRIKING FIRST. Ghost with the pass, NAK with the redirect! <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/RtirN3J3PB\">pic.twitter.com\/RtirN3J3PB<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1292259258294308866?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 9, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n <blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">NUMBER TWO FOR 62! NAK, AGAIN! Flyers lead, 2-0. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/eYwrFv3bEG\">pic.twitter.com\/eYwrFv3bEG<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1292261177179934720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 9, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 It appears the Flyers avoided what would have been a costly injury right before the first round.<\/p>\nTravis Sanheim left the game 22 seconds into the second period after taking a hit from Blake Coleman. It looked Sanheim was nursing his wrist or arm after the check as he went up the tunnel.<\/p>\nFortunately for the Flyers, Sanheim returned later in the period.<\/p>\n\u2022 An injury scare like that creates a reminder of the Flyers' young, promising stable of blueliners. Playing his first round-robin game, Shayne Gostisbehere reminded everyone of his game.<\/p>\nIf Gostisbehere is the Flyers' seventh defenseman, he did everything to potentially shake that status moving forward. Gostisbehere, who has had to undergo arthroscopic surgeries on both of his knees in 2020, had a good camp and said he has felt \"10 times better\" compared to during the regular season.<\/p>\nAgainst Tampa Bay, he looked like his mobile, confident, making-things-happen self from the blue line, recording two assists and a plus-2 rating. Gostisbehere made a sharp play to help create Aube-Kubel's first goal and showed his vision to assist Farabee's goal, which was a big one as it extended the Flyers' lead to 3-1 in the middle frame.<\/p>\n\"That was a hard pass from Ghost, it takes a special skill set to be able to one-time that,\" Flyers head coach Alain Vigneault said postgame in a video interview. \"Great play by Ghost but also great shot by Joel.\"<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">BIG MOVES FROM YOUNG BEEZER. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/Ee7wOWMZbi\">pic.twitter.com\/Ee7wOWMZbi<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1292275800281055233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 9, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\nThe 27-year-old offensive-minded defenseman displayed good instincts defensively, as well.<\/p>\nA performance like that will have Vigneault thinking, that's for sure. The sixth and final spot on defense will come down to Robert Hagg and Gostisbehere. Hagg likely has the slight edge for now, but Gostisbehere has drawn much closer and should be called upon if the Flyers don't have a positive start to the first round.<\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-out-james-van-riemsdyk-back-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs-round-robin-lightning\" target=\"_blank\">With Voracek out (undisclosed issue)<\/a>, Farabee jumped to the first line. Given he opened the tournament fighting for a spot in the lineup and likely the bottom six, this was a golden opportunity for the 20-year-old rookie winger.<\/p>\nHe took advantage of it pretty well, scoring a goal and tallying an assist. His game allows him to scale the lineup but he truly stands out when he's with talented players. Good stuff from him and he's pushing for a bigger role, especially depending on the statuses of Voracek and Michael Raffl (undisclosed injury), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">who missed the final two games of the round robin<\/a>.<\/p>\n\"You look at our lineup, we have such great depth,\" Farabee said postgame in a video interview. \"Ghosty and I are sliding in, we've got guys sliding out, coming back in, it just goes to show how good of a team we are and how deep we are.\"<\/p>\n\u2022 The power play never really got going during the round robin as the Flyers finished 0 for 11 through the three games. That will have to be better over a course of a best-of-seven series.<\/p>\n\u2022 The Flyers caught some breaks throughout the round robin, but give them credit for taking advantage of those breaks.<\/p>\nThey didn't face Vezina Trophy finalist Tuukka Rask in the 4-1 win over the Bruins. They didn't see James Norris Memorial Trophy finalist John Carlson in the 3-1 win over the Capitals.<\/p>\nAgainst the Lightning, they avoided Steven Stamkos (lower-body injury), who had 66 points in 57 games during the regular season. In the first period, Tampa Bay also lost stud defenseman Victor Hedman (undisclosed injury), who is also a finalist for the Norris Trophy.<\/p>\nThese games weren't necessarily close, though, either \u2014 the Flyers did damage against three of the best clubs in the NHL.<\/p>\n\u2022 As the No. 1 seed in the first round, the Flyers face the 12th-seeded Canadiens, who upset the fifth-seeded Penguins in the best-of-five qualifying round, taking the series 3-1.<\/p>\nThe Flyers went 2-1-0 against Montreal in the regular season, with a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-keep-late-fun-coming-thanks-overtime-win-canadiens-company-2011-12-team\" target=\"_blank\">3-2 overtime win Nov. 7<\/a>, a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-cap-special-november-enter-december-most-points-eric-lindros-led-1995-96-team\" target=\"_blank\">4-3 overtime victory Nov. 30<\/a> and a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-upended-canadiens-type-of-loss-always-seems-anger-fans\" target=\"_blank\">4-1 loss Jan. 16<\/a>.<\/p>\nThe first round of the playoffs is scheduled to begin next Tuesday. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-schedule-2020-nhl-playoffs-dates-game-times-broadcast-information\" target=\"_blank\">The Flyers' schedule<\/a> is to be determined.<\/p>\nSports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \nSubscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/c143960b-2aaf-420e-a2b2-cc53dce8aba7\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \n<a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\">More Flyers analysis for 24-team tournament<\/strong><\/h3>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-out-james-van-riemsdyk-back-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs-round-robin-lightning\" target=\"_blank\">Voracek out, JVR back after interesting scratch and more Flyers changes<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dont-expect-flyers-be-mingling-rivals-hotel-x-toronto-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Don't expect the Flyers to be mingling with their rivals at Hotel X Toronto<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Costly injury comes at interesting time, creates more decisions for Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-team-hot-streak-round-robin\" target=\"_blank\">The Flyers were never on a hot streak \u2014 they're just that good<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-stanley-cup-predictions\" target=\"_blank\">Can the Flyers go all the way? Our Stanley Cup predictions are here<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/picture-collage-and-signs-show-love-flyers-they-eye-stanley-cup-run-toronto\" target=\"_blank\">Picture collage and signs show love for Flyers as they eye Cup run in Toronto<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/sean-couturier-nhl-playoffs-bubble-stanley-cup-item-baby-book\" target=\"_blank\">Couturier's goals in NHL bubble: Stanley Cup and an important baby book item<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-blue-jackets-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_blank\">Could Flyers still share the wealth against Blue Jackets in 1st round?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-shirts\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers announce playoff roster, have fans going crazy over shirts<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-stanley-cup-odds-flyers-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">All types of Flyers odds (including the Cup) in NHL's 24-team tourney<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dave-scott-couldnt-be-happier-flyers-chuck-fletcher-theres-more-action-be-done\" target=\"_blank\">Scott 'couldn't be happier' with Flyers, but there's more action to be done<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-flyers-contract-signed-extension\" target=\"_blank\">Lindblom has new contract, his comeback is on with Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-canadiens-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_self\">Flyers-Canadiens is perfect on paper, but would it be a trap?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-explains-absence-flyers-training-camp-scrimmage\" target=\"_blank\">What happened? Voracek says calm down, he's fine ... now you know<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-shirts-sale-fans\" target=\"_blank\">Fans can purchase Flyers playoff shirts with new slogan<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-training-camp-day-1-different-times\" target=\"_blank\">What it was like to go back to work at Flyers practice in different times<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-odds-24-team-tournament-season\" target=\"_blank\">5 questions on Flyers' chances in 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/predictions-flyers-lineup-nhl-24-team-stanley-cup-playoffs-plan-return-coronavirus-suspension\" target=\"_blank\">Predictions for Flyers' best Game 1 lineup to start 24-team playoff<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-top-5-reinforcements\" target=\"_blank\">Who are the Flyers' top 5 reinforcements for 24-team tournament?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/brian-elliott-has-sweet-new-goalie-mask-flyers-nhl-playoffs-run\" target=\"_blank\">Elliott has sweet new mask for Flyers' playoff run<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-sign-mark-friedman-2-year-contract-extension\" target=\"_self\">Flyers sign a player to extension at position of strength<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-nhl-nhlpa-ratify-return-to-play-cba-schedule\" target=\"_blank\">What to know as NHL, NHLPA finish big step, announce schedule<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-free-agency-justin-braun-derek-grant-flyers\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers have two top 50 pending UFAs; will they re-sign them?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-2020-format-details-plan-stanley-cup-24-team-tournament\" target=\"_blank\">Everything Flyers fans need to know for NHL's 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/gary-bettman-flyers-mascot-gritty-cant-be-toronto-bubble-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Bettman gives Gritty the hard truth for why he can't be in Toronto bubble<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-key-dates-coronavirus-testing-protocols-return-to-play\" target=\"_blank\">Key dates, protocols announced as Flyers return<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n","safe_summary":"For the first time since 2000, the Flyers will be the Eastern Conference's No. 1 seed in the postseason after beating the Lightning, 4-1, Saturday night to win the round robin of the NHL's 24-team tournament. By Jordan Hall<\/p>\n"}]},"field_author_reference":{"und":[{"tid":"1056"}]},"field_bean_single_col":{"und":[{"target_id":"3706"}]},"field_chrome_page":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_date_published":{"und":[{"value":"2020-08-09 03:00:00","timezone":"America\/New_York","timezone_db":"UTC","date_type":"datetime"}]},"field_hero_image_credit":{"und":[{"value":"USA Today Images\/John E. Sokolowski","format":null,"safe_value":"USA Today Images\/John E. 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sweep it is \u2014\u00a0Flyers run through round robin, earn East's No. 1 seed","format":null,"safe_value":"How sweep it is \u2014\u00a0Flyers run through round robin, earn East's No. 1 seed"}]},"field_sponsor":[],"field_sport":{"und":[{"tid":"191"}]},"field_tags":{"und":[{"tid":"34061"},{"tid":"2456"},{"tid":"34056"},{"tid":"33456"},{"tid":"2576"},{"tid":"466"},{"tid":"506"}]},"field_team":{"und":[{"tid":"141"}]},"field_top_story":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_video_autoplay":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_videos":{"und":[{"target_id":"819566"}]},"field_tags_hide":[],"field_video_automute":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_editorial_category":{"und":[{"value":"analysis"}]},"field_allow_lld_domains":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_enable_stanza":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_exclude_from_yahoo":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"robots":{"value":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","noindex":0,"nofollow":0,"noarchive":0,"nosnippet":0,"noodp":0,"noydir":0,"noimageindex":0,"notranslate":0}},"news_keywords":{"value":"NHL round robin, NHL playoffs, Philadelphia Flyers, Tampa Bay Lightning, Jordan Hall, 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs"}}},"path":{"pathauto":"0"},"name":"JHall","picture":"0","data":"b:0;"},"access":true},{"target_id":"818971","entity":{"vid":"868046","uid":"156","title":"Flyers are making believers in round robin, pick up huge win over Capitals for East seeding","log":"","status":"1","comment":"0","promote":"0","sticky":"0","nid":"818971","type":"article","language":"und","created":"1596744721","changed":"1596844122","tnid":"0","translate":"0","published":"1596755400","revision_timestamp":"1596844122","revision_uid":"156","body":{"und":[{"value":"<a href=\"http:\/\/scores.nbcsportsphiladelphia.com\/nhl\/boxscore.asp?gamecode=2020080615&home=15&vis=23\" target=\"_blank\">BOX SCORE<\/a><\/p>The round robin looked good for the Flyers the moment the details were announced about the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament.<\/p>It looks really good right now.<\/p>The Flyers have pounced on their shot to rise in the Eastern Conference before the real deal begins during the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. On Thursday night, they beat the Capitals, 3-1, in their second round-robin game at Scotiabank Arena in the Eastern Conference's hub city Toronto.<\/p>Scott Laughton scored a pair of goals and Travis Sanheim registered the other as the Flyers notched another eye-opening victory.<\/p>How's the excitement level in the Delaware Valley?<\/p>Let's get into observations on the round-robin picture and the game:<\/p>\u2022 Given the Flyers could not slide any lower than their current No. 4 seed and had the chance to climb atop the Eastern Conference bracket entering the first round, their outlook appeared very attractive for the round robin, unlike like for the top-seeded Bruins, who could only fall (and they have).<\/p>So far, the Flyers have completely taken advantage of the juicy opportunity.<\/p>With the regulation win over the Capitals, they secured at least the Eastern Conference's No. 2 seed in the first round of the playoffs. The Flyers have set up a round-robin championship with the Lightning on Saturday. The winner of the game takes the No. 1 seed, the loser settles for the No. 2 seed.<\/p>Here are the current standings entering the round-robin finales:<\/p>1. Lightning<\/strong> \u2014 2-0-0, four points 1. Flyers<\/strong> \u2014 2-0-0, four points 3. Capitals<\/strong> \u2014 0-1-1, one point 4. Bruins<\/strong> \u2014 0-2-0, zero points<\/p>Update: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-standings-round-robin-series-updates-flyers-lightning\" target=\"_blank\">What Flyers fans need to know for round-robin finale, 1st-round matchups<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 Is there any argument to the Flyers' status as a legitimate Stanley Cup contender in this tournament?<\/p>They were proving themselves down the stretch of the regular season and they have to be making believers out of others right now.<\/p>Including the regular season and this round robin, the Flyers have gone 7-1-1 in nine combined matchups with the Capitals and Bruins.<\/p>Tough to argue that.<\/p>\u2022 Laughton, Kevin Hayes and Travis Konecny were put back together later in training camp and good thing the coaching staff made that call.<\/p>The line has been terrific, by far the club's best group of forwards so far in Toronto.<\/p>Hayes was impressive in camp with his puck-protection ability, patience and ability to slow the game down. He has completely carried that over into the tournament.<\/p>Laughton now has four goals in Toronto (three in the round robin, one in the exhibition game). Konecny had a beautiful assist on the first to give the Flyers a 1-0 lead in the opening stanza. Hayes set up Laughton's second marker, which ballooned the Flyers' lead to 3-0 in the third.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1291474401444204548?s=20<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1291498817494360064?s=20<\/p>Hayes, who also set up Sanheim's 2-0 goal, has four assists and a plus-4 mark in two round-robin games. Konecny finished the game with two helpers, as well.<\/p>The line is rolling into the showdown with the Lightning.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1291487602957262849?s=20<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1291507880970129409?s=20<\/p>\u2022 Because of that second line, the top line of Claude Giroux, Sean Couturier and Jakub Voracek has not had to do as much, which is a positive. The Flyers will want more offensive production from this group, no doubt about it, but the fact that this trio has combined for one assist over the first two games and the Flyers have outscored the Bruins and Capitals 7-2 is a great sign.<\/p>\u2022 The Flyers held Alex Ovechkin scoreless. The Capitals' superstar has not recorded a point in five matchups with the Flyers this season.<\/p>In Ovechkin's 15-year career, this was the first time the Flyers had ever held him to without a point in one regular season.<\/p>\"You've got to know when he's on the ice,\" Hayes said postgame in a video interview. \"I think that's a major key for our team, it's on the board every time: Know when 8's on the ice.\"<\/p>\u2022 Backup Brian Elliott was steady for the Flyers, needing to make only 16 saves on 17 shots. The goalie situation has played out well for the Flyers. Carter Hart is primed for the pipes Saturday.<\/p>The Flyers beat Braden Holtby for the fourth time this season.<\/p>\u2022 The decision to scratch James van Riemsdyk was difficult to comprehend.<\/p>No big deal, though, for now.<\/p>Alain Vigneault <a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-vs-capitals-round-robin-2020-nhl-playoffs-analysis\" target=\"_blank\">wants more from his goal-scoring winger<\/a>, but coming into Thursday, the Flyers had played only one exhibition game and one round-robin contest. Not a ton of reps or a huge sample size. Demoting him to the fourth line would have been a strong message sent and then van Riemsdyk could have had the opportunity to climb if he proved worthy of it in limited minutes.<\/p>We've known the Flyers would try different looks and play some reinforcements for evaluation. Vigneault hasn't given us many reasons to doubt his decisions as he has very often pushed the right buttons throughout Year 1 in Philly. Thursday, though, the Flyers were presented with a golden chance to grab at least the No. 2 seed in the first round of the postseason. It wasn't an ideal time to sit a two-time 30-goal scorer who helps on the power play in favor of 22-year-old Connor Bunnaman, who will likely be a deeper extra during playoff series.<\/p>Credit to Vigneault, the Flyers still recorded the important win, so there was no harm done. The van Riemsdyk storyline will be worth monitoring moving forward. His spot in the lineup doesn't sound in jeopardy but where he plays will be interesting to watch.<\/p>\u2022 For Vigneault, the decisions ahead are good ones to have but they don't get any easier. The head coach said he was looking to get either Shayne Gostisbehere or Mark Friedman in the lineup for the team's round-robin finale. Both blueliners played in the exhibition game and are going to be the Flyers' seventh and eighth defensemen, respectively, to open the first round.<\/p>\"I've already gotten Ghost and Mark in,\" Vigneault said Wednesday in a video interview. \"There's a good chance that we're maybe going to use that last game to get someone else in; probably in, Ghost or Mark.\"<\/p>Let's see if Vigneault still does that despite the opportunity for the Flyers and how well the defensive pairs have played.<\/p>Then again, the Flyers' power play is 0 for 8 through the round robin. Perhaps Vigneault gives Gostisbehere a look to give the offensive-minded defenseman a chance to boost the second-unit man advantage. His elusiveness up at the point could be a way to provide a spark.<\/p>Here was Vigneault after the game on the upcoming defensive decisions:<\/p><blockquote>I liked the way our group looked tonight, but we\u2019ve got one more round-robin game. Definitely going to talk with my coaching staff and [general manager Chuck Fletcher] and [assistant general manager Brent Flahr] to get their input on the matter. It\u2019s about preparing the team, it\u2019s also about winning obviously. But there\u2019s that fine line, we haven\u2019t played for a long time. If you do expect your team to have a long playoff push, obviously things have to fall into place, etc., but you do need some depth.<\/p>Tonight, I was very happy with getting Joel in and Bunny in, I thought both those young men played well.<\/p>So we\u2019ll see here what we decide. We\u2019ve got 48 hours before I need to make that call for the benefit of the team.<\/p><\/blockquote>\u2022 The Flyers caught a break with the absence of Capitals blueliner John Carlson (undisclosed injury), who missed his second straight round-robin game.<\/p>The James Norris Memorial Trophy finalist led all NHL defensemen in points during the regular season with 75.<\/p>\u2022 The Flyers wrap up their three-game round-robin slate Saturday when they play the second-seeded Lightning (start time TBD).<\/p>The Capitals and Bruins finish the round robin Sunday (start time TBD). The first round of the playoffs is scheduled to begin next Tuesday.<\/p>Sports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p>Subscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/27da96d3-1120-4c60-904d-e285562e8c55\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p><a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p><h3 dir=\"ltr\">More Flyers analysis for 24-team tournament<\/strong><\/h3>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dont-expect-flyers-be-mingling-rivals-hotel-x-toronto-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Don't expect the Flyers to be mingling with their rivals at Hotel X Toronto<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Costly injury comes at interesting time, creates more decisions for Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p><section id=\"carousel-wrapper\">\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-team-hot-streak-round-robin\" target=\"_blank\">The Flyers were never on a hot streak \u2014 they're just that good<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-24-team-tournament-round-robin-beat-nhl-best-bruins-stanley-cup-playoffs\" target=\"_self\">Feel good to be back? Despite possible injury, Flyers open tourney with a bang<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-round-robin-lineup-schedule-live-stream\" target=\"_blank\">From lineups to big picture, everything Flyers fans need to know for round robin<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-stanley-cup-predictions\" target=\"_blank\">Can the Flyers go all the way? Our Stanley Cup predictions are here<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-panthers-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_blank\">Potential heavyweight coaching matchup for Flyers in 1st round<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-celebrate-return-hockey-ot-win-and-positives-exhibition-vs-penguins\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers celebrate return of hockey with OT drama and positives in exhibition<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-penguins-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_blank\">So, about those Penguins ... 1st-round matchup for Flyers?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/picture-collage-and-signs-show-love-flyers-they-eye-stanley-cup-run-toronto\" target=\"_blank\">Picture collage and signs show love for Flyers as they eye Cup run in Toronto<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/sean-couturier-nhl-playoffs-bubble-stanley-cup-item-baby-book\" target=\"_blank\">Couturier's goals in NHL bubble: Stanley Cup and an important baby book item<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-blue-jackets-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_blank\">Could Flyers still share the wealth against Blue Jackets in 1st round?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-islanders-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_blank\">Would Islanders be Flyers' kryptonite if they meet in 1st round?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-shirts\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers announce playoff roster, have fans going crazy over shirts<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-stanley-cup-odds-flyers-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">All types of Flyers odds (including the Cup) as NHL's 24-team tourney begins<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dave-scott-couldnt-be-happier-flyers-chuck-fletcher-theres-more-action-be-done\" target=\"_blank\">Scott 'couldn't be happier' with Flyers, but there's more action to be done<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-hurricanes-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_blank\">Trust the captain, he'll know what to do if the Flyers face the Hurricanes<\/a><\/strong><\/p><\/section>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-training-camp-observations-carter-hart-injury-status-sean-couturier-baby-roster-talk\" target=\"_blank\">Analyzing Hart's situation, another Flyer becomes a dad, more<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-flyers-contract-signed-extension\" target=\"_blank\">Lindblom has new contract, his comeback is on with Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-canadiens-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_self\">Flyers-Canadiens is perfect on paper, but would it be a trap?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-schedule-round-robin-change-flyers-lightning-bruins-capitals\" target=\"_blank\">What round-robin schedule change could mean for Flyers' strategy<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-explains-absence-flyers-training-camp-scrimmage\" target=\"_blank\">What happened? Voracek says calm down, he's fine ... now you know<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-training-camp-observations-jakub-voracek-scrimmage-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Key Flyer missing, buzzing rookie, don't forget Ghost and more<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-training-camp-observations-lineup-travis-konecny-celebration-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">The Flyers' lineup, practicing celebrations, no hiding these two and more<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <\/b><\/font><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-training-camp-carter-hart-claude-giroux-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_self\">A 'dangerous card' in the Flyers' hand, Giroux still wows and more<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <\/b><\/font><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-shirts-sale-fans\" target=\"_blank\">Fans can purchase Flyers playoff shirts with new slogan<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-training-camp-day-1-different-times\" target=\"_blank\">What it was like to go back to work at Flyers practice in different times<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-schedule-qualifying-round-round-robin-return-to-play-stanley-cup-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Analyzing the Flyers' schedule to open 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-odds-24-team-tournament-season\" target=\"_blank\">5 questions on Flyers' chances in 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/predictions-flyers-lineup-nhl-24-team-stanley-cup-playoffs-plan-return-coronavirus-suspension\" target=\"_blank\">Predictions for Flyers' best Game 1 lineup to start 24-team playoff<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-top-5-reinforcements\" target=\"_blank\">Who are the Flyers' top 5 reinforcements for 24-team tournament?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/brian-elliott-has-sweet-new-goalie-mask-flyers-nhl-playoffs-run\" target=\"_blank\">Elliott has sweet new mask for Flyers' playoff run<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-sign-mark-friedman-2-year-contract-extension\" target=\"_self\">Flyers sign a player to extension at position of strength<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-nhl-nhlpa-ratify-return-to-play-cba-schedule\" target=\"_blank\">What to know as NHL, NHLPA finish big step, announce schedule<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-chances-24-team-format-bracket\" target=\"_blank\">Things get even better for Flyers in NHL's 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-free-agency-justin-braun-derek-grant-flyers\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers have two top 50 pending UFAs; will they re-sign them?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-2020-format-details-plan-stanley-cup-24-team-tournament\" target=\"_blank\">Everything Flyers fans need to know for NHL's 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/gary-bettman-flyers-mascot-gritty-cant-be-toronto-bubble-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Bettman gives Gritty the hard truth for why he can't be in Toronto bubble<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-key-dates-coronavirus-testing-protocols-return-to-play\" target=\"_blank\">Key dates, protocols announced as Flyers set to return<\/a><\/strong><\/p>","summary":"Starting to really believe? The Flyers continued turning heads Thursday night with a 3-1 win over the Capitals for a huge seeding win in the round robin of the NHL's 24-team tournament. By Jordan Hall<\/p>","format":"filtered_html","safe_value":"<a href=\"http:\/\/scores.nbcsportsphiladelphia.com\/nhl\/boxscore.asp?gamecode=2020080615&home=15&vis=23\" target=\"_blank\">BOX SCORE<\/a><\/p>\nThe round robin looked good for the Flyers the moment the details were announced about the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament.<\/p>\nIt looks really good right now.<\/p>\nThe Flyers have pounced on their shot to rise in the Eastern Conference before the real deal begins during the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. On Thursday night, they beat the Capitals, 3-1, in their second round-robin game at Scotiabank Arena in the Eastern Conference's hub city Toronto.<\/p>\nScott Laughton scored a pair of goals and Travis Sanheim registered the other as the Flyers notched another eye-opening victory.<\/p>\nHow's the excitement level in the Delaware Valley?<\/p>\nLet's get into observations on the round-robin picture and the game:<\/p>\n\u2022 Given the Flyers could not slide any lower than their current No. 4 seed and had the chance to climb atop the Eastern Conference bracket entering the first round, their outlook appeared very attractive for the round robin, unlike like for the top-seeded Bruins, who could only fall (and they have).<\/p>\nSo far, the Flyers have completely taken advantage of the juicy opportunity.<\/p>\nWith the regulation win over the Capitals, they secured at least the Eastern Conference's No. 2 seed in the first round of the playoffs. The Flyers have set up a round-robin championship with the Lightning on Saturday. The winner of the game takes the No. 1 seed, the loser settles for the No. 2 seed.<\/p>\nHere are the current standings entering the round-robin finales:<\/p>\n1. Lightning<\/strong> \u2014 2-0-0, four points 1. Flyers<\/strong> \u2014 2-0-0, four points 3. Capitals<\/strong> \u2014 0-1-1, one point 4. Bruins<\/strong> \u2014 0-2-0, zero points<\/p>\nUpdate: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-standings-round-robin-series-updates-flyers-lightning\" target=\"_blank\">What Flyers fans need to know for round-robin finale, 1st-round matchups<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 Is there any argument to the Flyers' status as a legitimate Stanley Cup contender in this tournament?<\/p>\nThey were proving themselves down the stretch of the regular season and they have to be making believers out of others right now.<\/p>\nIncluding the regular season and this round robin, the Flyers have gone 7-1-1 in nine combined matchups with the Capitals and Bruins.<\/p>\nTough to argue that.<\/p>\n\u2022 Laughton, Kevin Hayes and Travis Konecny were put back together later in training camp and good thing the coaching staff made that call.<\/p>\nThe line has been terrific, by far the club's best group of forwards so far in Toronto.<\/p>\nHayes was impressive in camp with his puck-protection ability, patience and ability to slow the game down. He has completely carried that over into the tournament.<\/p>\nLaughton now has four goals in Toronto (three in the round robin, one in the exhibition game). Konecny had a beautiful assist on the first to give the Flyers a 1-0 lead in the opening stanza. Hayes set up Laughton's second marker, which ballooned the Flyers' lead to 3-0 in the third.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">We like this...we like this a whole laught. Laughton picks up his third goal since arriving in the NHL bubble to give the Flyers the lead. | <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/HerrsSnacks?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@HerrsSnacks<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/wATakYzxhD\">pic.twitter.com\/wATakYzxhD<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1291474401444204548?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 6, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n <blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Things you just absolutely love to see: it. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/epa4RWQkoO\">pic.twitter.com\/epa4RWQkoO<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1291498817494360064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 6, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\nHayes, who also set up Sanheim's 2-0 goal, has four assists and a plus-4 mark in two round-robin games. Konecny finished the game with two helpers, as well.<\/p>\nThe line is rolling into the showdown with the Lightning.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">SAVE THIS FOR THE HIGHLIGHT REEL. Hayes puts on a clinic for the find and Sanheim sends it to the net for this beauty of a goal. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/iiQASP2t9d\">pic.twitter.com\/iiQASP2t9d<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1291487602957262849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 6, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n <blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Jerry: He's a bubble boy. George: A bubble boy? Jerry: Yes, a bubble boy. Susan: What's a bubble boy? Jerry: He lives in a bubble. George: Boy. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/ndslYr3UaH\">pic.twitter.com\/ndslYr3UaH<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1291507880970129409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 6, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 Because of that second line, the top line of Claude Giroux, Sean Couturier and Jakub Voracek has not had to do as much, which is a positive. The Flyers will want more offensive production from this group, no doubt about it, but the fact that this trio has combined for one assist over the first two games and the Flyers have outscored the Bruins and Capitals 7-2 is a great sign.<\/p>\n\u2022 The Flyers held Alex Ovechkin scoreless. The Capitals' superstar has not recorded a point in five matchups with the Flyers this season.<\/p>\nIn Ovechkin's 15-year career, this was the first time the Flyers had ever held him to without a point in one regular season.<\/p>\n\"You've got to know when he's on the ice,\" Hayes said postgame in a video interview. \"I think that's a major key for our team, it's on the board every time: Know when 8's on the ice.\"<\/p>\n\u2022 Backup Brian Elliott was steady for the Flyers, needing to make only 16 saves on 17 shots. The goalie situation has played out well for the Flyers. Carter Hart is primed for the pipes Saturday.<\/p>\nThe Flyers beat Braden Holtby for the fourth time this season.<\/p>\n\u2022 The decision to scratch James van Riemsdyk was difficult to comprehend.<\/p>\nNo big deal, though, for now.<\/p>\nAlain Vigneault <a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-vs-capitals-round-robin-2020-nhl-playoffs-analysis\" target=\"_blank\">wants more from his goal-scoring winger<\/a>, but coming into Thursday, the Flyers had played only one exhibition game and one round-robin contest. Not a ton of reps or a huge sample size. Demoting him to the fourth line would have been a strong message sent and then van Riemsdyk could have had the opportunity to climb if he proved worthy of it in limited minutes.<\/p>\nWe've known the Flyers would try different looks and play some reinforcements for evaluation. Vigneault hasn't given us many reasons to doubt his decisions as he has very often pushed the right buttons throughout Year 1 in Philly. Thursday, though, the Flyers were presented with a golden chance to grab at least the No. 2 seed in the first round of the postseason. It wasn't an ideal time to sit a two-time 30-goal scorer who helps on the power play in favor of 22-year-old Connor Bunnaman, who will likely be a deeper extra during playoff series.<\/p>\nCredit to Vigneault, the Flyers still recorded the important win, so there was no harm done. The van Riemsdyk storyline will be worth monitoring moving forward. His spot in the lineup doesn't sound in jeopardy but where he plays will be interesting to watch.<\/p>\n\u2022 For Vigneault, the decisions ahead are good ones to have but they don't get any easier. The head coach said he was looking to get either Shayne Gostisbehere or Mark Friedman in the lineup for the team's round-robin finale. Both blueliners played in the exhibition game and are going to be the Flyers' seventh and eighth defensemen, respectively, to open the first round.<\/p>\n\"I've already gotten Ghost and Mark in,\" Vigneault said Wednesday in a video interview. \"There's a good chance that we're maybe going to use that last game to get someone else in; probably in, Ghost or Mark.\"<\/p>\nLet's see if Vigneault still does that despite the opportunity for the Flyers and how well the defensive pairs have played.<\/p>\nThen again, the Flyers' power play is 0 for 8 through the round robin. Perhaps Vigneault gives Gostisbehere a look to give the offensive-minded defenseman a chance to boost the second-unit man advantage. His elusiveness up at the point could be a way to provide a spark.<\/p>\nHere was Vigneault after the game on the upcoming defensive decisions:<\/p>\n<blockquote>I liked the way our group looked tonight, but we\u2019ve got one more round-robin game. Definitely going to talk with my coaching staff and [general manager Chuck Fletcher] and [assistant general manager Brent Flahr] to get their input on the matter. It\u2019s about preparing the team, it\u2019s also about winning obviously. But there\u2019s that fine line, we haven\u2019t played for a long time. If you do expect your team to have a long playoff push, obviously things have to fall into place, etc., but you do need some depth.<\/p>\nTonight, I was very happy with getting Joel in and Bunny in, I thought both those young men played well.<\/p>\nSo we\u2019ll see here what we decide. We\u2019ve got 48 hours before I need to make that call for the benefit of the team.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\u2022 The Flyers caught a break with the absence of Capitals blueliner John Carlson (undisclosed injury), who missed his second straight round-robin game.<\/p>\nThe James Norris Memorial Trophy finalist led all NHL defensemen in points during the regular season with 75.<\/p>\n\u2022 The Flyers wrap up their three-game round-robin slate Saturday when they play the second-seeded Lightning (start time TBD).<\/p>\nThe Capitals and Bruins finish the round robin Sunday (start time TBD). The first round of the playoffs is scheduled to begin next Tuesday.<\/p>\nSports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \nSubscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/27da96d3-1120-4c60-904d-e285562e8c55\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \n<a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\">More Flyers analysis for 24-team tournament<\/strong><\/h3>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dont-expect-flyers-be-mingling-rivals-hotel-x-toronto-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Don't expect the Flyers to be mingling with their rivals at Hotel X Toronto<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Costly injury comes at interesting time, creates more decisions for Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-team-hot-streak-round-robin\" target=\"_blank\">The Flyers were never on a hot streak \u2014 they're just that good<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-24-team-tournament-round-robin-beat-nhl-best-bruins-stanley-cup-playoffs\" target=\"_self\">Feel good to be back? Despite possible injury, Flyers open tourney with a bang<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-round-robin-lineup-schedule-live-stream\" target=\"_blank\">From lineups to big picture, everything Flyers fans need to know for round robin<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-stanley-cup-predictions\" target=\"_blank\">Can the Flyers go all the way? Our Stanley Cup predictions are here<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-panthers-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_blank\">Potential heavyweight coaching matchup for Flyers in 1st round<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-celebrate-return-hockey-ot-win-and-positives-exhibition-vs-penguins\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers celebrate return of hockey with OT drama and positives in exhibition<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-penguins-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_blank\">So, about those Penguins ... 1st-round matchup for Flyers?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/picture-collage-and-signs-show-love-flyers-they-eye-stanley-cup-run-toronto\" target=\"_blank\">Picture collage and signs show love for Flyers as they eye Cup run in Toronto<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/sean-couturier-nhl-playoffs-bubble-stanley-cup-item-baby-book\" target=\"_blank\">Couturier's goals in NHL bubble: Stanley Cup and an important baby book item<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-blue-jackets-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_blank\">Could Flyers still share the wealth against Blue Jackets in 1st round?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-islanders-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_blank\">Would Islanders be Flyers' kryptonite if they meet in 1st round?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-shirts\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers announce playoff roster, have fans going crazy over shirts<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-stanley-cup-odds-flyers-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">All types of Flyers odds (including the Cup) as NHL's 24-team tourney begins<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dave-scott-couldnt-be-happier-flyers-chuck-fletcher-theres-more-action-be-done\" target=\"_blank\">Scott 'couldn't be happier' with Flyers, but there's more action to be done<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-hurricanes-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_blank\">Trust the captain, he'll know what to do if the Flyers face the Hurricanes<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-training-camp-observations-carter-hart-injury-status-sean-couturier-baby-roster-talk\" target=\"_blank\">Analyzing Hart's situation, another Flyer becomes a dad, more<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-flyers-contract-signed-extension\" target=\"_blank\">Lindblom has new contract, his comeback is on with Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-canadiens-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_self\">Flyers-Canadiens is perfect on paper, but would it be a trap?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-schedule-round-robin-change-flyers-lightning-bruins-capitals\" target=\"_blank\">What round-robin schedule change could mean for Flyers' strategy<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-explains-absence-flyers-training-camp-scrimmage\" target=\"_blank\">What happened? Voracek says calm down, he's fine ... now you know<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-training-camp-observations-jakub-voracek-scrimmage-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Key Flyer missing, buzzing rookie, don't forget Ghost and more<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-training-camp-observations-lineup-travis-konecny-celebration-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">The Flyers' lineup, practicing celebrations, no hiding these two and more<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-training-camp-carter-hart-claude-giroux-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_self\">A 'dangerous card' in the Flyers' hand, Giroux still wows and more<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-shirts-sale-fans\" target=\"_blank\">Fans can purchase Flyers playoff shirts with new slogan<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-training-camp-day-1-different-times\" target=\"_blank\">What it was like to go back to work at Flyers practice in different times<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-schedule-qualifying-round-round-robin-return-to-play-stanley-cup-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Analyzing the Flyers' schedule to open 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-odds-24-team-tournament-season\" target=\"_blank\">5 questions on Flyers' chances in 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/predictions-flyers-lineup-nhl-24-team-stanley-cup-playoffs-plan-return-coronavirus-suspension\" target=\"_blank\">Predictions for Flyers' best Game 1 lineup to start 24-team playoff<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-top-5-reinforcements\" target=\"_blank\">Who are the Flyers' top 5 reinforcements for 24-team tournament?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/brian-elliott-has-sweet-new-goalie-mask-flyers-nhl-playoffs-run\" target=\"_blank\">Elliott has sweet new mask for Flyers' playoff run<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-sign-mark-friedman-2-year-contract-extension\" target=\"_self\">Flyers sign a player to extension at position of strength<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-nhl-nhlpa-ratify-return-to-play-cba-schedule\" target=\"_blank\">What to know as NHL, NHLPA finish big step, announce schedule<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-chances-24-team-format-bracket\" target=\"_blank\">Things get even better for Flyers in NHL's 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-free-agency-justin-braun-derek-grant-flyers\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers have two top 50 pending UFAs; will they re-sign them?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-2020-format-details-plan-stanley-cup-24-team-tournament\" target=\"_blank\">Everything Flyers fans need to know for NHL's 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/gary-bettman-flyers-mascot-gritty-cant-be-toronto-bubble-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Bettman gives Gritty the hard truth for why he can't be in Toronto bubble<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-key-dates-coronavirus-testing-protocols-return-to-play\" target=\"_blank\">Key dates, protocols announced as Flyers set to return<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n","safe_summary":"Starting to really believe? The Flyers continued turning heads Thursday night with a 3-1 win over the Capitals for a huge seeding win in the round robin of the NHL's 24-team tournament. By Jordan Hall<\/p>\n"}]},"field_author_reference":{"und":[{"tid":"1056"}]},"field_bean_single_col":{"und":[{"target_id":"3706"}]},"field_chrome_page":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_date_published":{"und":[{"value":"2020-08-06 23:10:00","timezone":"America\/New_York","timezone_db":"UTC","date_type":"datetime"}]},"field_hero_image_credit":{"und":[{"value":"USA Today Images\/John E. Sokolowski","format":null,"safe_value":"USA Today Images\/John E. Sokolowski"}]},"field_image":{"und":[{"fid":"2512686","uid":"156","filename":"usa_sean_couturier.jpg","uri":"public:\/\/2020\/08\/06\/usa_sean_couturier.jpg","filemime":"image\/jpeg","filesize":"1005360","status":"1","timestamp":"1596751621","origname":"usa_sean_couturier.jpg","type":"image","field_file_image_alt_text":[],"field_file_image_title_text":[],"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":[],"metadata":{"height":809,"width":1500},"height":"809","width":"1500","alt":null,"title":null}]},"field_league":{"und":[{"tid":"196"}]},"field_section":{"und":[{"tid":"201"}]},"field_short_title":{"und":[{"value":"Flyers are making believers in round robin, pick up huge win for East seeding","format":null,"safe_value":"Flyers are making believers in round robin, pick up huge win for East seeding"}]},"field_sponsor":[],"field_sport":{"und":[{"tid":"191"}]},"field_tags":{"und":[{"tid":"22636"},{"tid":"34061"},{"tid":"9196"},{"tid":"33456"},{"tid":"2576"},{"tid":"466"},{"tid":"506"}]},"field_team":{"und":[{"tid":"141"}]},"field_top_story":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_video_autoplay":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_videos":{"und":[{"target_id":"819041"}]},"field_tags_hide":[],"field_video_automute":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_editorial_category":{"und":[{"value":"analysis"}]},"field_allow_lld_domains":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_enable_stanza":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_exclude_from_yahoo":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"robots":{"value":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","noindex":0,"nofollow":0,"noarchive":0,"nosnippet":0,"noodp":0,"noydir":0,"noimageindex":0,"notranslate":0}},"news_keywords":{"value":"Philadelphia Flyers, Washington Capitals, Jordan Hall, NHL playoffs, NHL round robin, 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Flyers observations"}}},"path":{"pathauto":"0"},"name":"JHall","picture":"0","data":"b:0;"},"access":true}]},"field_primary_display":[],"field_section":[],"field_show":[],"field_sport":[],"field_tags":[],"field_team":[],"field_author_reference":[],"field_archive":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_mc_auto_mute":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_mc_cont_play":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_mc_media_file_title":[],"field_mc_vod_player_id":[],"field_media_file_id":[],"field_mediacard_autoplay":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_display_desktop_large_only":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_hide_on_mobile":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","entity_view_prepared":true},"#items":[{"value":"MANUAL_CONTENT_STRATEGY"}],"#formatter":"list_default","0":{"#markup":"Select content manually"}},"field_content_type":{"#theme":"field","#weight":7,"#title":"Content Type","#access":true,"#label_display":"above","#view_mode":"default","#language":"und","#field_name":"field_content_type","#field_type":"list_text","#field_translatable":"0","#entity_type":"bean","#bundle":"media_card","#object":{"label":"NHL 24-team tournament","description":null,"title":"NHL 24-team tournament","type":"media_card","data":{"view_mode":"1col_eight_pack_headlines"},"delta":"nhls-24-team-tournament","view_mode":"1col_eight_pack_headlines","bid":"3706","vid":"19411","created":"1591301625","changed":"1597548624","log":"","uid":"156","default_revision":"1","revisions":[],"field_ad_hoc_group":[],"field_branded_header":[],"field_content_strategy":{"und":[{"value":"MANUAL_CONTENT_STRATEGY"}]},"field_content_type":{"und":[{"value":"article"},{"value":"headline"},{"value":"media_gallery"},{"value":"video_on_demand"}]},"field_dl_tabloid_headline":{"und":[{"value":""},{"value":""},{"value":""},{"value":""},{"value":""},{"value":""},{"value":""},{"value":""}]},"field_event":[],"field_genre_display":[],"field_league":[],"field_link":[],"field_links":[],"field_media_card_items":{"und":[{"target_id":"821221","entity":{"vid":"870321","uid":"156","title":"Alain Vigneault setting his tone? Calling out Kirk Muller, Canadiens has meaningful feel","log":"","status":"1","comment":"0","promote":"0","sticky":"0","nid":"821221","type":"article","language":"und","created":"1597450223","changed":"1597549306","tnid":"0","translate":"0","published":"1597466100","revision_timestamp":"1597549306","revision_uid":"156","body":{"und":[{"value":"Alain Vigneault knows his way around come postseason time.<\/p>He can be a different guy when those lights flicker on for the Stanley Cup Playoffs and that trophy is up for grabs.<\/p>That isn't to say he's not intense or competitive during the regular season, but he understands well and relishes what's at stake when the calendar turns to the postseason.<\/p>Everything is turned up a notch.<\/p>In the playoffs, Vigneault won't reveal any lineup decisions in the days leading up to a matchup. There's a new level of gamesmanship. Plain and simple, Vigneault wants to win. The five-time Jack Adams Award finalist who has now coached in four pressure-filled markets \u2014 Montreal, Vancouver, New York and Philadelphia \u2014 wants the Stanley Cup. He was a game away from winning it in 2011 with the Canucks, made it back to the Final in 2013 with the Rangers and owns 12 career playoff berths on his 17-year r\u00e9sum\u00e9.<\/p>When the Cup logo is flashing everywhere you look, he doesn't mess around.<\/p>\"At the end of the day, at this time, there are no friends,\" Vigneault said Monday. \"There are no friends in coaching and there shouldn\u2019t be any friends as far as players. There\u2019s a lot of respect obviously on both sides, but it\u2019s time to play and it\u2019s time to bring it. That\u2019s what both the Flyers and Montreal are going to try to do.\"<\/p>Vigneault's intensity, competitiveness and no-friends mantra were evident Friday night following <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-slammed-back-earth-game-2-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-possible-travis-konecny-injury\" target=\"_blank\">the Flyers' 5-0 loss to the Canadiens<\/a> in Game 2 of their best-of-seven first-round series.<\/p>After the top-seeded Flyers took Game 1, eighth-seeded Montreal took it to them Friday. And it didn't let up. With just over two minutes left to play and the Canadiens leading comfortably 5-0, Montreal went on the power play. Kirk Muller, serving as the Canadiens' head coach <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/montreal-canadiens-head-coach-claude-julien-released-hospital-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">in Claude Julien's stead<\/a>, sent out his first unit of Nick Suzuki, Tomas Tatar, Jonathan Drouin, Shea Weber and Jeff Petry.<\/p>Unprompted postgame, Vigneault went out of his way to highlight the opposition's late-game tactic in a blowout. Suffice it to say Muller's decision did not sit well with the Flyers' bench boss.<\/p><blockquote>I saw toward the end of the game there, where Kirk Muller, they've got a 5-0 lead and he puts his No. 1 power play on the ice. We had embarrassed ourselves enough, I don\u2019t think we needed to get embarrassed more. I\u2019m going to make sure our team is very aware of that next game.<\/p><\/blockquote>While Vigneault was genuinely peeved, the comment very well could be a motivational tactic for his club, to create a little bad blood in the series for a top-seeded team that maybe needed a reason to get angry after rolling through the round robin and gaining league-wide notoriety. The Flyers just received a mini wake-up call at an opportune time \u2014 early in the series when they were up 1-0. Now there's some fuel to their urgency for a response.<\/p>\"We got our butts kicked today in all facets of the game,\" Vigneault said. \"They outworked us, they outplayed us, they out-executed us.<\/p>\"Playoff hockey is about winning four games. Right now, the series is tied 1-1. There\u2019s no doubt that they outplayed us in all facets of the game tonight, especially in the will department. We\u2019re going to need to be a lot better.\"<\/p>Update: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-alain-vigneault-response-canadiens-2020-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers say they're built to respond and there's proof to believe it<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>Did Flyers players take notice of Montreal's first power play unit hitting the ice late in a 5-0 game?<\/p>\"Everyone sees everything out there,\" Kevin Hayes said. \"That\u2019s their coach\u2019s decision, you\u2019ve got to ask him.\"<\/p>\"Yeah, I saw it,\" Claude Giroux, not sounding too concerned by the move, said. \"No comment on that. We\u2019re just going to worry about the next game here.\"<\/p>Vigneault certainly means what he said about the waning minutes of a blowout. If you recall in February, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoff-race-flyers-win-panthers-potential-travis-sanheim-injury\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers had a 5-2 lead over the Panthers<\/a> and went on the power play with about a minute left in regulation. Vigneault sent out a man advantage unit of Robert Hagg, Justin Braun, Connor Bunnaman, Michael Raffl and Nicolas Aube-Kubel.<\/p>That was the regular season, this is the playoffs. Is there a major difference? We'll let you be the judge.<\/p>There are two sides to every story. Muller had a reasonable response when asked about Vigneault's displeasure with his decision.<\/p>\u201cI\u2019ve got a lot of respect, I\u2019ve worked with those coaches over there, they\u2019ve done a heck of a job with their team, they\u2019ve got a good hockey club,\" Muller said postgame. \"I would never disrespect anybody. But we\u2019re in the playoffs, you look at the first series against Pittsburgh, our power play wasn\u2019t that great. I felt that if this was during the season, it would be a different story, but we have no practice time here, we\u2019ve got to keep working on it.<\/p>\"I totally understand if that were his comments, I was probably expecting it, but my job is to make this team as good as it can be right now and I had to keep getting some of these guys that haven\u2019t been productive starting to feel it. I\u2019ve got to focus on our guys in that situation.\u201d<\/p>Vigneault was bothered by the Flyers' loss. He gave credit to the Canadiens. But he also discredited Montreal for that late-game decision.<\/p>The method to a Vigneault-driven playoff push hasn't been witnessed yet in Philadelphia.<\/p>This could be just the beginning.<\/p>Sports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p>Subscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p><a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p><h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3><ul><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-slammed-back-earth-game-2-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-possible-travis-konecny-injury\">Flyers slammed back to earth in Game 2, hope they didn't lose a huge piece<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/montreal-canadiens-head-coach-claude-julien-released-hospital-nhl-playoffs\">Canadiens head coach Julien released from hospital<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/ice-cream-memory-carey-price-carter-hart-ready-2020-nhl-playoffs\">Ice cream and a memory remind us Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/carter-hart-early-birthday-gift-flyers-beat-canadiens-game-1-1st-round-nhl-playoffs\">Enjoy that birthday, young man \u2014 Hart leads Flyers to a not-so-easy Game 1 win<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><\/ul>","summary":"Alain Vigneault was not happy with a decision Friday night by Canadiens coach Kirk Muller and went out of his way to make it known \u2014 for a purpose. By Jordan Hall<\/p>","format":"filtered_html","safe_value":"Alain Vigneault knows his way around come postseason time.<\/p>\nHe can be a different guy when those lights flicker on for the Stanley Cup Playoffs and that trophy is up for grabs.<\/p>\nThat isn't to say he's not intense or competitive during the regular season, but he understands well and relishes what's at stake when the calendar turns to the postseason.<\/p>\nEverything is turned up a notch.<\/p>\nIn the playoffs, Vigneault won't reveal any lineup decisions in the days leading up to a matchup. There's a new level of gamesmanship. Plain and simple, Vigneault wants to win. The five-time Jack Adams Award finalist who has now coached in four pressure-filled markets \u2014 Montreal, Vancouver, New York and Philadelphia \u2014 wants the Stanley Cup. He was a game away from winning it in 2011 with the Canucks, made it back to the Final in 2013 with the Rangers and owns 12 career playoff berths on his 17-year r\u00e9sum\u00e9.<\/p>\nWhen the Cup logo is flashing everywhere you look, he doesn't mess around.<\/p>\n\"At the end of the day, at this time, there are no friends,\" Vigneault said Monday. \"There are no friends in coaching and there shouldn\u2019t be any friends as far as players. There\u2019s a lot of respect obviously on both sides, but it\u2019s time to play and it\u2019s time to bring it. That\u2019s what both the Flyers and Montreal are going to try to do.\"<\/p>\nVigneault's intensity, competitiveness and no-friends mantra were evident Friday night following <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-slammed-back-earth-game-2-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-possible-travis-konecny-injury\" target=\"_blank\">the Flyers' 5-0 loss to the Canadiens<\/a> in Game 2 of their best-of-seven first-round series.<\/p>\nAfter the top-seeded Flyers took Game 1, eighth-seeded Montreal took it to them Friday. And it didn't let up. With just over two minutes left to play and the Canadiens leading comfortably 5-0, Montreal went on the power play. Kirk Muller, serving as the Canadiens' head coach <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/montreal-canadiens-head-coach-claude-julien-released-hospital-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">in Claude Julien's stead<\/a>, sent out his first unit of Nick Suzuki, Tomas Tatar, Jonathan Drouin, Shea Weber and Jeff Petry.<\/p>\nUnprompted postgame, Vigneault went out of his way to highlight the opposition's late-game tactic in a blowout. Suffice it to say Muller's decision did not sit well with the Flyers' bench boss.<\/p>\n<blockquote>I saw toward the end of the game there, where Kirk Muller, they've got a 5-0 lead and he puts his No. 1 power play on the ice. We had embarrassed ourselves enough, I don\u2019t think we needed to get embarrassed more. I\u2019m going to make sure our team is very aware of that next game.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\nWhile Vigneault was genuinely peeved, the comment very well could be a motivational tactic for his club, to create a little bad blood in the series for a top-seeded team that maybe needed a reason to get angry after rolling through the round robin and gaining league-wide notoriety. The Flyers just received a mini wake-up call at an opportune time \u2014 early in the series when they were up 1-0. Now there's some fuel to their urgency for a response.<\/p>\n\"We got our butts kicked today in all facets of the game,\" Vigneault said. \"They outworked us, they outplayed us, they out-executed us.<\/p>\n\"Playoff hockey is about winning four games. Right now, the series is tied 1-1. There\u2019s no doubt that they outplayed us in all facets of the game tonight, especially in the will department. We\u2019re going to need to be a lot better.\"<\/p>\nUpdate: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-alain-vigneault-response-canadiens-2020-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers say they're built to respond and there's proof to believe it<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\nDid Flyers players take notice of Montreal's first power play unit hitting the ice late in a 5-0 game?<\/p>\n\"Everyone sees everything out there,\" Kevin Hayes said. \"That\u2019s their coach\u2019s decision, you\u2019ve got to ask him.\"<\/p>\n\"Yeah, I saw it,\" Claude Giroux, not sounding too concerned by the move, said. \"No comment on that. We\u2019re just going to worry about the next game here.\"<\/p>\nVigneault certainly means what he said about the waning minutes of a blowout. If you recall in February, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoff-race-flyers-win-panthers-potential-travis-sanheim-injury\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers had a 5-2 lead over the Panthers<\/a> and went on the power play with about a minute left in regulation. Vigneault sent out a man advantage unit of Robert Hagg, Justin Braun, Connor Bunnaman, Michael Raffl and Nicolas Aube-Kubel.<\/p>\nThat was the regular season, this is the playoffs. Is there a major difference? We'll let you be the judge.<\/p>\nThere are two sides to every story. Muller had a reasonable response when asked about Vigneault's displeasure with his decision.<\/p>\n\u201cI\u2019ve got a lot of respect, I\u2019ve worked with those coaches over there, they\u2019ve done a heck of a job with their team, they\u2019ve got a good hockey club,\" Muller said postgame. \"I would never disrespect anybody. But we\u2019re in the playoffs, you look at the first series against Pittsburgh, our power play wasn\u2019t that great. I felt that if this was during the season, it would be a different story, but we have no practice time here, we\u2019ve got to keep working on it.<\/p>\n\"I totally understand if that were his comments, I was probably expecting it, but my job is to make this team as good as it can be right now and I had to keep getting some of these guys that haven\u2019t been productive starting to feel it. I\u2019ve got to focus on our guys in that situation.\u201d<\/p>\nVigneault was bothered by the Flyers' loss. He gave credit to the Canadiens. But he also discredited Montreal for that late-game decision.<\/p>\nThe method to a Vigneault-driven playoff push hasn't been witnessed yet in Philadelphia.<\/p>\nThis could be just the beginning.<\/p>\nSports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \nSubscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \n<a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-slammed-back-earth-game-2-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-possible-travis-konecny-injury\">Flyers slammed back to earth in Game 2, hope they didn't lose a huge piece<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/montreal-canadiens-head-coach-claude-julien-released-hospital-nhl-playoffs\">Canadiens head coach Julien released from hospital<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/ice-cream-memory-carey-price-carter-hart-ready-2020-nhl-playoffs\">Ice cream and a memory remind us Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/carter-hart-early-birthday-gift-flyers-beat-canadiens-game-1-1st-round-nhl-playoffs\">Enjoy that birthday, young man \u2014 Hart leads Flyers to a not-so-easy Game 1 win<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","safe_summary":"Alain Vigneault was not happy with a decision Friday night by Canadiens coach Kirk Muller and went out of his way to make it known \u2014 for a purpose. By Jordan Hall<\/p>\n"}]},"field_author_reference":{"und":[{"tid":"1056"}]},"field_bean_single_col":{"und":[{"target_id":"3706"}]},"field_chrome_page":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_date_published":{"und":[{"value":"2020-08-15 04:35:00","timezone":"America\/New_York","timezone_db":"UTC","date_type":"datetime"}]},"field_hero_image_credit":{"und":[{"value":"USA Today Images\/Dan Hamilton","format":null,"safe_value":"USA Today Images\/Dan Hamilton"}]},"field_image":{"und":[{"fid":"2529881","uid":"156","filename":"usa_kirk_muller_alain_vigneault.jpg","uri":"public:\/\/2020\/08\/14\/usa_kirk_muller_alain_vigneault.jpg","filemime":"image\/jpeg","filesize":"1325052","status":"1","timestamp":"1597449859","origname":"usa_kirk_muller_alain_vigneault.jpg","type":"image","field_file_image_alt_text":[],"field_file_image_title_text":[],"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":[],"metadata":{"height":845,"width":1500},"height":"845","width":"1500","alt":null,"title":null}]},"field_league":{"und":[{"tid":"196"}]},"field_section":{"und":[{"tid":"201"}]},"field_short_title":{"und":[{"value":"Vigneault setting his tone? Calling out Canadiens coach has meaningful feel","format":null,"safe_value":"Vigneault setting his tone? Calling out Canadiens coach has meaningful feel"}]},"field_sponsor":[],"field_sport":{"und":[{"tid":"191"}]},"field_tags":{"und":[{"tid":"34056"},{"tid":"10491"},{"tid":"33456"},{"tid":"2576"},{"tid":"466"},{"tid":"30436"},{"tid":"506"},{"tid":"34721"}]},"field_team":{"und":[{"tid":"141"}]},"field_top_story":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_video_autoplay":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_videos":{"und":[{"target_id":"821261"}]},"field_tags_hide":[],"field_video_automute":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_editorial_category":{"und":[{"value":"columns"}]},"field_allow_lld_domains":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_enable_stanza":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_exclude_from_yahoo":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"robots":{"value":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","noindex":0,"nofollow":0,"noarchive":0,"nosnippet":0,"noodp":0,"noydir":0,"noimageindex":0,"notranslate":0}},"news_keywords":{"value":"Alain Vigneault, Kirk Muller, NHL playoffs, 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Jordan Hall, Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens"}}},"path":{"pathauto":"0"},"name":"JHall","picture":"0","data":"b:0;"},"access":true},{"target_id":"821381","entity":{"vid":"870481","uid":"156","title":"Flyers say they're built to respond in NHL playoffs and there's proof to believe it","log":"","status":"1","comment":"0","promote":"0","sticky":"0","nid":"821381","type":"article","language":"und","created":"1597528144","changed":"1597548786","tnid":"0","translate":"0","published":"1597546800","revision_timestamp":"1597548786","revision_uid":"156","body":{"und":[{"value":"Among the 31 players on the Flyers' roster, Matt Niskanen has experienced the most playoff wars and the pressure that hangs over them.<\/p>The 33-year-old defenseman has played in 130 career postseason games and counting. He won the 2018 Stanley Cup with the Capitals and his time in D.C. featured an accomplished core of players that had to constantly stare playoff pressure in the eyes. Before 2018, the Capitals created expectations with back-to-back Presidents' Trophy honors from 2015-17 and had never hoisted the Cup in their organization's history.<\/p>In the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs, the Flyers are the Eastern Conference's top seed after climbing from No. 4 to No. 1 during the round robin. In the first round, they're coming off an eye-opening 5-0 loss to the Canadiens, who entered the NHL's return-to-play tournament as the lowest overall seed in the 24-team field.<\/p>The alarming Game 2 has called for a loud response from the Flyers with the series knotted at 1-1 heading into Sunday's Game 3 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-schedule-2020-nhl-playoffs-dates-game-times-broadcast-information\" target=\"_blank\">(8 p.m. ET\/NBC)<\/a>. Niskanen, who has played on various clubs that went through the postseason trenches, was asked why these Flyers are built to respond in the playoffs like they did during their regular-season stretch run.<\/p>\"We've got guys that are hungry for success,\" Niskanen said Friday with some conviction in his voice following the loss to Montreal.<\/p>\"I like our group, we believe in our abilities. ... We had a bit of a blunder today, we\u2019ll learn from it quickly and get excited and get our energy up for the next game. I know we\u2019ll play better.\"<\/p>The Flyers' belief in their ability to quickly respond holds merit. From Jan. 8 to the end of the regular season (which was March 12 because of the coronavirus outbreak), the Flyers went 19-6-1 without consecutive losses. Over that time, in games after their last eight losses (including their 2-0 loss to the Bruins in the regular-season finale), the Flyers are 8-0-0 and have outscored the opposition 40-17.<\/p>On Jan. 16, the Flyers stumbled to the Canadiens, 4-1. They followed it up with a 4-1 win over the Kings and 3-0 blanking of the Penguins. On Feb. 6, the Flyers were blown out by the Devils, 5-0, at the Wells Fargo Center. Their very next game, they routed the Capitals, 7-2, on the road.<\/p>Turning the page became <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-odds-24-team-tournament-season\" target=\"_blank\">a staple under head coach Alain Vigneault<\/a> as the Flyers started climbing the standings. They need that staple early in the playoffs. The Flyers were going to eventually lose a game in the postseason, but the defeat was not expected to be by five goals or a truly one-sided decision this soon through the first round.<\/p>\"We have [Carter Hart and Brian Elliott] in there, they always help, we've got the right coaching staff and we've got the right leaders on this team that know that we need to respond in a certain way,\" Kevin Hayes said Friday. \"I have all the faith in the world in our leaders and in all of our teammates that we\u2019re going to respond in the right way in Game 3.\"<\/p>Losses of the flavor the Flyers tasted in Game 2 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-slammed-back-earth-game-2-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-possible-travis-konecny-injury\" target=\"_blank\">tend to bring at least some changes or tweaks<\/a>. The statuses of Travis Konecny and Michael Raffl are uncertain for Game 3. Konecny exited late in the third period of Game 2 after blocking a shot with his foot and Raffl has missed the last four games with an undisclosed injury but took part in warmups Friday. Per NHL protocols for the tournament, Vigneault is not permitted to release specifics on any injuries\/illnesses. It's not as if he would anyway this time of year. For strategic purposes, the bench boss is not disclosing lineup decisions during the postseason.<\/p>But Vigneault and his staff have important adjustments to dissect and discuss, adjustments that could come down the lineup.<\/p>\"Well, that\u2019s why they pay me the big bucks, you know?\" Vigneault said with a laugh Saturday. \"At the end of the day, that was our first really tough game in the last 16 or 17. Do you make some minor changes? Do you make some major changes? Do you show faith in the group that brought you to the dance and played extremely well down the stretch? Tune in, you\u2019ll find out tomorrow.\"<\/p>And we'll find out how well the top-seeded Flyers are prepared for an early test of playoff fortitude.<\/p>Sports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p>Subscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p><a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p><h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3><ul><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/alain-vigneault-calling-out-kirk-muller-canadiens-meaningful-feel-nhl-playoffs\">Vigneault setting his tone? Calling out Canadiens coach has meaningful feel<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-slammed-back-earth-game-2-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-possible-travis-konecny-injury\">Flyers slammed back to earth in Game 2, hope they didn't lose a huge piece<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/montreal-canadiens-head-coach-claude-julien-released-hospital-nhl-playoffs\">Canadiens head coach Julien released from hospital<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/ice-cream-memory-carey-price-carter-hart-ready-2020-nhl-playoffs\">Ice cream and a memory remind us Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><\/ul>","summary":"The Flyers have said they're built to respond from the ugly Game 2 loss and there's proof to believe it. By Jordan Hall<\/p>","format":"filtered_html","safe_value":"Among the 31 players on the Flyers' roster, Matt Niskanen has experienced the most playoff wars and the pressure that hangs over them.<\/p>\nThe 33-year-old defenseman has played in 130 career postseason games and counting. He won the 2018 Stanley Cup with the Capitals and his time in D.C. featured an accomplished core of players that had to constantly stare playoff pressure in the eyes. Before 2018, the Capitals created expectations with back-to-back Presidents' Trophy honors from 2015-17 and had never hoisted the Cup in their organization's history.<\/p>\nIn the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs, the Flyers are the Eastern Conference's top seed after climbing from No. 4 to No. 1 during the round robin. In the first round, they're coming off an eye-opening 5-0 loss to the Canadiens, who entered the NHL's return-to-play tournament as the lowest overall seed in the 24-team field.<\/p>\nThe alarming Game 2 has called for a loud response from the Flyers with the series knotted at 1-1 heading into Sunday's Game 3 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-schedule-2020-nhl-playoffs-dates-game-times-broadcast-information\" target=\"_blank\">(8 p.m. ET\/NBC)<\/a>. Niskanen, who has played on various clubs that went through the postseason trenches, was asked why these Flyers are built to respond in the playoffs like they did during their regular-season stretch run.<\/p>\n\"We've got guys that are hungry for success,\" Niskanen said Friday with some conviction in his voice following the loss to Montreal.<\/p>\n\"I like our group, we believe in our abilities. ... We had a bit of a blunder today, we\u2019ll learn from it quickly and get excited and get our energy up for the next game. I know we\u2019ll play better.\"<\/p>\nThe Flyers' belief in their ability to quickly respond holds merit. From Jan. 8 to the end of the regular season (which was March 12 because of the coronavirus outbreak), the Flyers went 19-6-1 without consecutive losses. Over that time, in games after their last eight losses (including their 2-0 loss to the Bruins in the regular-season finale), the Flyers are 8-0-0 and have outscored the opposition 40-17.<\/p>\nOn Jan. 16, the Flyers stumbled to the Canadiens, 4-1. They followed it up with a 4-1 win over the Kings and 3-0 blanking of the Penguins. On Feb. 6, the Flyers were blown out by the Devils, 5-0, at the Wells Fargo Center. Their very next game, they routed the Capitals, 7-2, on the road.<\/p>\nTurning the page became <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-odds-24-team-tournament-season\" target=\"_blank\">a staple under head coach Alain Vigneault<\/a> as the Flyers started climbing the standings. They need that staple early in the playoffs. The Flyers were going to eventually lose a game in the postseason, but the defeat was not expected to be by five goals or a truly one-sided decision this soon through the first round.<\/p>\n\"We have [Carter Hart and Brian Elliott] in there, they always help, we've got the right coaching staff and we've got the right leaders on this team that know that we need to respond in a certain way,\" Kevin Hayes said Friday. \"I have all the faith in the world in our leaders and in all of our teammates that we\u2019re going to respond in the right way in Game 3.\"<\/p>\nLosses of the flavor the Flyers tasted in Game 2 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-slammed-back-earth-game-2-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-possible-travis-konecny-injury\" target=\"_blank\">tend to bring at least some changes or tweaks<\/a>. The statuses of Travis Konecny and Michael Raffl are uncertain for Game 3. Konecny exited late in the third period of Game 2 after blocking a shot with his foot and Raffl has missed the last four games with an undisclosed injury but took part in warmups Friday. Per NHL protocols for the tournament, Vigneault is not permitted to release specifics on any injuries\/illnesses. It's not as if he would anyway this time of year. For strategic purposes, the bench boss is not disclosing lineup decisions during the postseason.<\/p>\nBut Vigneault and his staff have important adjustments to dissect and discuss, adjustments that could come down the lineup.<\/p>\n\"Well, that\u2019s why they pay me the big bucks, you know?\" Vigneault said with a laugh Saturday. \"At the end of the day, that was our first really tough game in the last 16 or 17. Do you make some minor changes? Do you make some major changes? Do you show faith in the group that brought you to the dance and played extremely well down the stretch? Tune in, you\u2019ll find out tomorrow.\"<\/p>\nAnd we'll find out how well the top-seeded Flyers are prepared for an early test of playoff fortitude.<\/p>\nSports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \nSubscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \n<a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/alain-vigneault-calling-out-kirk-muller-canadiens-meaningful-feel-nhl-playoffs\">Vigneault setting his tone? Calling out Canadiens coach has meaningful feel<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-slammed-back-earth-game-2-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-possible-travis-konecny-injury\">Flyers slammed back to earth in Game 2, hope they didn't lose a huge piece<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/montreal-canadiens-head-coach-claude-julien-released-hospital-nhl-playoffs\">Canadiens head coach Julien released from hospital<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/ice-cream-memory-carey-price-carter-hart-ready-2020-nhl-playoffs\">Ice cream and a memory remind us Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","safe_summary":"The Flyers have said they're built to respond from the ugly Game 2 loss and there's proof to believe it. By Jordan Hall<\/p>\n"}]},"field_author_reference":{"und":[{"tid":"1056"}]},"field_bean_single_col":{"und":[{"target_id":"3706"}]},"field_chrome_page":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_date_published":{"und":[{"value":"2020-08-16 03:00:00","timezone":"America\/New_York","timezone_db":"UTC","date_type":"datetime"}]},"field_hero_image_credit":{"und":[{"value":"Mark Blinch\/NHLI via Getty Images","format":null,"safe_value":"Mark Blinch\/NHLI via Getty Images"}]},"field_image":{"und":[{"fid":"2531666","uid":"156","filename":"getty_matt_niskanen.jpg","uri":"public:\/\/2020\/08\/15\/getty_images_matt_niskanen.jpg","filemime":"image\/jpeg","filesize":"1289971","status":"1","timestamp":"1597546194","origname":"usa_claude_giroux.jpg","type":"image","field_file_image_alt_text":[],"field_file_image_title_text":[],"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"title":{"value":"[current-page:title] | [current-page:pager][site:name]","default":"[current-page:title] | 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say they're built to respond and there's proof to believe it","format":null,"safe_value":"Flyers say they're built to respond and there's proof to believe it"}]},"field_sponsor":[],"field_sport":{"und":[{"tid":"191"}]},"field_tags":{"und":[{"tid":"10491"},{"tid":"34056"},{"tid":"33456"},{"tid":"2576"},{"tid":"466"},{"tid":"506"}]},"field_team":{"und":[{"tid":"141"}]},"field_top_story":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_video_autoplay":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_videos":{"und":[{"target_id":"821246"}]},"field_tags_hide":[],"field_video_automute":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_editorial_category":{"und":[{"value":"columns"}]},"field_allow_lld_domains":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_enable_stanza":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_exclude_from_yahoo":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"robots":{"value":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","noindex":0,"nofollow":0,"noarchive":0,"nosnippet":0,"noodp":0,"noydir":0,"noimageindex":0,"notranslate":0}},"news_keywords":{"value":"Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens, Jordan Hall, NHL playoffs, 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs"}}},"path":{"pathauto":"0"},"name":"JHall","picture":"0","data":"b:0;"},"access":true},{"target_id":"821151","entity":{"vid":"870251","uid":"156","title":"Flyers slammed back to earth in Game 2, hope they didn't lose Travis Konecny to injury","log":"","status":"1","comment":"0","promote":"0","sticky":"0","nid":"821151","type":"article","language":"und","created":"1597434834","changed":"1597519421","tnid":"0","translate":"0","published":"1597441800","revision_timestamp":"1597519421","revision_uid":"156","body":{"und":[{"value":"<a href=\"https:\/\/csnphilly.stats.com\/nhl\/boxscore.asp?gamecode=2020081415\" target=\"_blank\">BOX SCORE<\/a><\/p>Entering Friday afternoon's game, the Flyers had not yet trailed through their 4-0-0 start to the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament.<\/p>They trailed early and big in a back-to-earth Game 2 loss to the Canadiens at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, a disastrous 5-0 decision that has evened the Flyers' best-of-seven first-round playoff series with Montreal.<\/p>Carter Hart was yanked from the game with 2:03 left in the middle frame after yielding more than three goals for the first time in 12 games.<\/p>An awful first period by the Flyers (more on that below) set the tone and now head coach Alain Vigneault will have to work his magic with some adjustments if his top-seeded club wants to regain control of the series.<\/p>\"We got our butts kicked,\" Vigneault said postgame in a video interview.<\/p>More: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/alain-vigneault-calling-out-kirk-muller-canadiens-meaningful-feel-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Vigneault setting his tone? Calling out Canadiens coach has meaningful feel<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1294414103344283653?s=20<\/p>\u2022 After shining through his first three starts in the tournament (3-0-0, 1.00 goals-against average) and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/ice-cream-memory-carey-price-carter-hart-ready-2020-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">having his 22nd birthday Wednesday<\/a>, Hart was roughed up by Montreal.<\/p>The Flyers were not good in front of him and Hart wasn't good himself, either.<\/p>On Jesperi Kotkaniemi's first of two goals to make it 2-0 in the opening stanza, Hart had a bad giveaway behind his net that eventually led to the marker. If there's one thing Hart has had to work on, it's his play with the puck outside of his crease.<\/p>[[{\"fid\":\"2529646\",\"view_mode\":\"default\",\"fields\":{\"format\":\"default\",\"field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]\":false,\"field_file_image_title_text[und][0][value]\":false},\"type\":\"media\",\"field_deltas\":{\"1\":{\"format\":\"default\",\"field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]\":false,\"field_file_image_title_text[und][0][value]\":false}},\"attributes\":{\"class\":\"media-element file-default\",\"data-delta\":\"1\"}}]]<\/p>Hart made only 22 saves on 26 shots before Brian Elliott took over, finishing the game with five saves on six shots. Hart will be right back at it in Game 3. It's his first taste of failure in the NHL playoffs.<\/p>Carey Price is so difficult to beat when he has a big lead. He was impressive and pitched a 30-save shutout.<\/p>\u2022 As the Flyers started looking like a contender down the stretch of the regular season and through the round robin, they didn't give fans much at all to complain about; they were that good.<\/p>Well, the first period Friday against the Canadiens was worthy of complaints. The Flyers put out what might have been one of their worst first-period performances of the 2019-20 season.<\/p>From the onset, the Flyers looked slow, sloppy and out of sync as the eighth-seeded Canadiens completely took it to the Eastern Conference's top seed.<\/p>The Flyers trailed 1:02 into the action on a Tomas Tatar goal (his first of two) and things never got better during the opening stanza. As a result, they were down by multiple goals at first intermission for the first time in their last 15 games, while they were outshot 16-6. At one point, Montreal had a 12-0 advantage in shots. <\/p>It sort of felt like an ugly flashback to 2018-19. The Flyers were not ready or energized out of the chute and it burned them a game in this series. Every game is precious in the playoffs.<\/p>\u2022 The Flyers' nightmare was capped when All-Star and leading scorer in the regular season Travis Konecny exited the game in the third period after blocking a shot with his foot.<\/p>Konecny departed under his own power without putting pressure on his left leg. The Flyers will hope it was a precautionary exit in a game that was already decided.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1294384090192510976?s=20<\/p>Michael Raffl <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">(undisclosed injury)<\/a> was able to skate in warmups after missing the final two round-robin games and Game 1 of this series. Scratches can skate during warmups and the fact that Raffl partook is a good sign for his potential return.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1294712090528186369?s=20<\/p>\u2022 If you're looking for any positives after this one, it's that the Flyers went 19-6-1 without consecutive losses from Jan. 8 to the end of the regular season (also known as the NHL pause on March 12).<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1246901909107232771?s=20<\/p>Under Vigneault, the Flyers were very good at burying a bad performance by quickly turning the page with proper adjustments. They suffered a 5-0 loss and 4-1 defeat during that stretch from Jan. 8 to the end of the season; they responded well from both of those clunkers with strong wins.<\/p>\u2022 Losses like that will bring changes in the playoffs.<\/p>The third defensive pair of Shayne Gostisbehere and Justin Braun struggled. Both blueliners had a minus-2 rating, both had turnovers and both just didn't look in rhythm.<\/p>The Canadiens' fourth goal took a bad bounce of off Gostisbehere's skate. Those happen but they also don't look good. A Gostisbehere penalty led to a Montreal power play goal to make it 3-0. The holding call on Gostisbehere was questionable as he was trying to prevent a breakaway from Max Domi.<\/p>Everyone played poorly, but it wouldn't be surprising if Vigneault gives Robert Hagg a look for defensive and physicality reasons in a big Game 3.<\/p>\u2022 In an attempt to spark the Flyers, Vigneault shuffled his lines for the third period but it didn't lead to much.<\/p>The Flyers' top five goal scorers from the regular season \u2014 Konecny (24 goals), Kevin Hayes (23), Sean Couturier (22), Claude Giroux (21) and James van Riemsdyk (19) \u2014 have combined for nine assists but no goals in the tournament so far.<\/p>\u2022 The Flyers' power play is 1 for 19 in the tournament. It hasn't been sharp or consistent when the Flyers get set up.<\/p>\u2022 The series continues Sunday with Game 3 at 8 p.m. ET on NBC.<\/p>For the full series schedule, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-schedule-2020-nhl-playoffs-dates-game-times-broadcast-information\" target=\"_blank\">click here<\/a>.<\/p>The Flyers won't have an on-ice practice Saturday.<\/p>Sports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p>Subscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p><a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p><h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3><ul><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/montreal-canadiens-head-coach-claude-julien-released-hospital-nhl-playoffs\">Canadiens head coach Julien released from hospital<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/ice-cream-memory-carey-price-carter-hart-ready-2020-nhl-playoffs\">Ice cream and a memory remind us Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/carter-hart-early-birthday-gift-flyers-beat-canadiens-game-1-1st-round-nhl-playoffs\">Enjoy that birthday, young man \u2014 Hart leads Flyers to a not-so-easy Game 1 win<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-draft-lottery-rangers-win-no-1-pick-consensus-alexis-lafreniere\">No. 1 pick lands in Metropolitan Division but to the lesser of two Flyers rivals<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><\/ul>","summary":"The Flyers on Friday were thumped by the Habs, 5-0, in Game 2 of their best-of-seven first-round playoff series, which is now all even at 1-1. By Jordan Hall<\/p>","format":"filtered_html","safe_value":"<a href=\"https:\/\/csnphilly.stats.com\/nhl\/boxscore.asp?gamecode=2020081415\" target=\"_blank\">BOX SCORE<\/a><\/p>\nEntering Friday afternoon's game, the Flyers had not yet trailed through their 4-0-0 start to the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament.<\/p>\nThey trailed early and big in a back-to-earth Game 2 loss to the Canadiens at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, a disastrous 5-0 decision that has evened the Flyers' best-of-seven first-round playoff series with Montreal.<\/p>\nCarter Hart was yanked from the game with 2:03 left in the middle frame after yielding more than three goals for the first time in 12 games.<\/p>\nAn awful first period by the Flyers (more on that below) set the tone and now head coach Alain Vigneault will have to work his magic with some adjustments if his top-seeded club wants to regain control of the series.<\/p>\n\"We got our butts kicked,\" Vigneault said postgame in a video interview.<\/p>\nMore: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/alain-vigneault-calling-out-kirk-muller-canadiens-meaningful-feel-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Vigneault setting his tone? Calling out Canadiens coach has meaningful feel<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Flyers' largest margins of defeat this season: 6 goals \u2014 7-1 loss to Penguins, Oct. 29 5 goals \u2014 5-0 loss to Canadiens, Aug. 14 (playoffs) 5 goals \u2014 6-1 loss to Sharks, Dec. 28 5 goals \u2014 5-0 loss to Devils, Feb. 6<\/p>— Jordan Hall (@JHallNBCS) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1294414103344283653?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 14, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 After shining through his first three starts in the tournament (3-0-0, 1.00 goals-against average) and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/ice-cream-memory-carey-price-carter-hart-ready-2020-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">having his 22nd birthday Wednesday<\/a>, Hart was roughed up by Montreal.<\/p>\nThe Flyers were not good in front of him and Hart wasn't good himself, either.<\/p>\nOn Jesperi Kotkaniemi's first of two goals to make it 2-0 in the opening stanza, Hart had a bad giveaway behind his net that eventually led to the marker. If there's one thing Hart has had to work on, it's his play with the puck outside of his crease.<\/p>\n<div class=\"media media-element-container media-default\"><div id=\"file-2529646--54\" class=\"file file-image file-image-jpeg\">\r\n\r\n <h2 class=\"element-invisible\"><a href=\"\/files\/hartjpg-6\">hart.jpg<\/a><\/h2>\r\n \r\n \r\n <div class=\"content\">\r\n <img class=\"media-element file-default\" data-delta=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/sites\/csnphilly\/files\/hart.jpg\" width=\"1150\" height=\"568\" alt=\"\" \/> <\/div>\r\n\r\n \r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div><\/p>\nHart made only 22 saves on 26 shots before Brian Elliott took over, finishing the game with five saves on six shots. Hart will be right back at it in Game 3. It's his first taste of failure in the NHL playoffs.<\/p>\nCarey Price is so difficult to beat when he has a big lead. He was impressive and pitched a 30-save shutout.<\/p>\n\u2022 As the Flyers started looking like a contender down the stretch of the regular season and through the round robin, they didn't give fans much at all to complain about; they were that good.<\/p>\nWell, the first period Friday against the Canadiens was worthy of complaints. The Flyers put out what might have been one of their worst first-period performances of the 2019-20 season.<\/p>\nFrom the onset, the Flyers looked slow, sloppy and out of sync as the eighth-seeded Canadiens completely took it to the Eastern Conference's top seed.<\/p>\nThe Flyers trailed 1:02 into the action on a Tomas Tatar goal (his first of two) and things never got better during the opening stanza. As a result, they were down by multiple goals at first intermission for the first time in their last 15 games, while they were outshot 16-6. At one point, Montreal had a 12-0 advantage in shots. <\/p>\nIt sort of felt like an ugly flashback to 2018-19. The Flyers were not ready or energized out of the chute and it burned them a game in this series. Every game is precious in the playoffs.<\/p>\n\u2022 The Flyers' nightmare was capped when All-Star and leading scorer in the regular season Travis Konecny exited the game in the third period after blocking a shot with his foot.<\/p>\nKonecny departed under his own power without putting pressure on his left leg. The Flyers will hope it was a precautionary exit in a game that was already decided.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Salt in the wound: Travis Konecny leaves the game after blocking a shot. Flyers will want to bury this one far and away. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/C0pScdiaZc\">pic.twitter.com\/C0pScdiaZc<\/a><\/p>— Jordan Hall (@JHallNBCS) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1294384090192510976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 14, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\nMichael Raffl <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">(undisclosed injury)<\/a> was able to skate in warmups after missing the final two round-robin games and Game 1 of this series. Scratches can skate during warmups and the fact that Raffl partook is a good sign for his potential return.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Alain Vigneault can't comment on the statuses of Michael Raffl and Travis Konecny.<\/p>— Jordan Hall (@JHallNBCS) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1294712090528186369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 15, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 If you're looking for any positives after this one, it's that the Flyers went 19-6-1 without consecutive losses from Jan. 8 to the end of the regular season (also known as the NHL pause on March 12).<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">The Flyers since Jan. 8 prior to NHL stoppage. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/icUrYeh98q\">pic.twitter.com\/icUrYeh98q<\/a><\/p>— Jordan Hall (@JHallNBCS) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1246901909107232771?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">April 5, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\nUnder Vigneault, the Flyers were very good at burying a bad performance by quickly turning the page with proper adjustments. They suffered a 5-0 loss and 4-1 defeat during that stretch from Jan. 8 to the end of the season; they responded well from both of those clunkers with strong wins.<\/p>\n\u2022 Losses like that will bring changes in the playoffs.<\/p>\nThe third defensive pair of Shayne Gostisbehere and Justin Braun struggled. Both blueliners had a minus-2 rating, both had turnovers and both just didn't look in rhythm.<\/p>\nThe Canadiens' fourth goal took a bad bounce of off Gostisbehere's skate. Those happen but they also don't look good. A Gostisbehere penalty led to a Montreal power play goal to make it 3-0. The holding call on Gostisbehere was questionable as he was trying to prevent a breakaway from Max Domi.<\/p>\nEveryone played poorly, but it wouldn't be surprising if Vigneault gives Robert Hagg a look for defensive and physicality reasons in a big Game 3.<\/p>\n\u2022 In an attempt to spark the Flyers, Vigneault shuffled his lines for the third period but it didn't lead to much.<\/p>\nThe Flyers' top five goal scorers from the regular season \u2014 Konecny (24 goals), Kevin Hayes (23), Sean Couturier (22), Claude Giroux (21) and James van Riemsdyk (19) \u2014 have combined for nine assists but no goals in the tournament so far.<\/p>\n\u2022 The Flyers' power play is 1 for 19 in the tournament. It hasn't been sharp or consistent when the Flyers get set up.<\/p>\n\u2022 The series continues Sunday with Game 3 at 8 p.m. ET on NBC.<\/p>\nFor the full series schedule, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-schedule-2020-nhl-playoffs-dates-game-times-broadcast-information\" target=\"_blank\">click here<\/a>.<\/p>\nThe Flyers won't have an on-ice practice Saturday.<\/p>\nSports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \nSubscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \n<a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/montreal-canadiens-head-coach-claude-julien-released-hospital-nhl-playoffs\">Canadiens head coach Julien released from hospital<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/ice-cream-memory-carey-price-carter-hart-ready-2020-nhl-playoffs\">Ice cream and a memory remind us Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/carter-hart-early-birthday-gift-flyers-beat-canadiens-game-1-1st-round-nhl-playoffs\">Enjoy that birthday, young man \u2014 Hart leads Flyers to a not-so-easy Game 1 win<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-draft-lottery-rangers-win-no-1-pick-consensus-alexis-lafreniere\">No. 1 pick lands in Metropolitan Division but to the lesser of two Flyers rivals<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","safe_summary":"The Flyers on Friday were thumped by the Habs, 5-0, in Game 2 of their best-of-seven first-round playoff series, which is now all even at 1-1. By Jordan Hall<\/p>\n"}]},"field_author_reference":{"und":[{"tid":"1056"}]},"field_bean_single_col":{"und":[{"target_id":"3706"}]},"field_chrome_page":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_date_published":{"und":[{"value":"2020-08-14 21:50:00","timezone":"America\/New_York","timezone_db":"UTC","date_type":"datetime"}]},"field_hero_image_credit":{"und":[{"value":"USA Today Images\/Dan Hamilton","format":null,"safe_value":"USA Today Images\/Dan Hamilton"}]},"field_image":{"und":[{"fid":"2529596","uid":"156","filename":"usa_shayne_gostisbehere.jpg","uri":"public:\/\/2020\/08\/14\/usa_shayne_gostisbehere.jpg","filemime":"image\/jpeg","filesize":"1041306","status":"1","timestamp":"1597438317","origname":"usa_shayne_gostisbehere.jpg","type":"image","field_file_image_alt_text":[],"field_file_image_title_text":[],"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":[],"metadata":{"height":806,"width":1500},"height":"806","width":"1500","alt":null,"title":null}]},"field_league":{"und":[{"tid":"196"}]},"field_section":{"und":[{"tid":"201"}]},"field_short_title":{"und":[{"value":"Flyers slammed back to earth in Game 2, hope they didn't lose a huge piece","format":null,"safe_value":"Flyers slammed back to earth in Game 2, hope they didn't lose a huge piece"}]},"field_sponsor":[],"field_sport":{"und":[{"tid":"191"}]},"field_tags":{"und":[{"tid":"34056"},{"tid":"33456"},{"tid":"2576"},{"tid":"22636"},{"tid":"10491"},{"tid":"466"},{"tid":"506"}]},"field_team":{"und":[{"tid":"141"}]},"field_top_story":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_video_autoplay":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_videos":{"und":[{"target_id":"821181"}]},"field_tags_hide":[],"field_video_automute":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_editorial_category":{"und":[{"value":"analysis"}]},"field_allow_lld_domains":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_enable_stanza":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_exclude_from_yahoo":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"robots":{"value":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","noindex":0,"nofollow":0,"noarchive":0,"nosnippet":0,"noodp":0,"noydir":0,"noimageindex":0,"notranslate":0}},"news_keywords":{"value":"Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens, Flyers playoffs, Jordan Hall, Flyers observations, NHL playoffs, 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs"}}},"path":{"pathauto":"0"},"name":"JHall","picture":"0","data":"b:0;"},"access":true},{"target_id":"819626","entity":{"vid":"868716","uid":"156","title":"Ice cream and a memory vs. Carey Price remind us Carter Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment","log":"","status":"1","comment":"0","promote":"0","sticky":"0","nid":"819626","type":"article","language":"und","created":"1596989819","changed":"1597369061","tnid":"0","translate":"0","published":"1597368900","revision_timestamp":"1597369061","revision_uid":"156","body":{"und":[{"value":"When Carey Price was at his most dominant, winning the Vezina Trophy (top goalie) and <\/em>Hart Memorial Trophy (MVP) in 2014-15, Carter Hart was just 16 years old. <\/p>The precocious but innocent kid had just begun molding his game at the junior hockey level with the WHL's Silvertips in Everett, Washington.<\/p>Price was at the sport's pinnacle.<\/p>\"He was my favorite goalie growing up,\" Hart said.<\/p>On Wednesday, the night before his 22nd birthday, Hart found himself stretching next to Price at the center-ice line in front of the scorekeepers' bench.<\/p>There was Hart, on the same NHL stage as his idol, facing him in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.<\/p>The NHL postseason is serious business, requiring the utmost competitiveness and focus. Hart, whose youthfulness often belies his maturity, fully understands the beast that is the Stanley Cup Playoffs. But the postseason makes for special moments and memories. NHL players all looked up to someone at some point. For Hart, he allowed himself to appreciate the storyline ahead.<\/p>\"Definitely really cool,\" Hart said last Sunday about the upcoming best-of-seven first-round matchup with Price's Canadiens. \"Just had the chance to actually meet him the other week and talk with him for the first time, so that was something pretty cool. For your first playoff series, playing against Carey Price will definitely be a lot of fun; I look forward to it.\"<\/p>Price, who turns 33 years old on Sunday, was unable to spoil the youngster's birthday. By midnight, Hart and the top-seeded Flyers had a 1-0 series lead after earning a hard-fought 2-1 victory over eighth-seeded Montreal. Hart is 3-0-0 with a 1.00 goals-against average and .966 save percentage through three games in the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament.<\/p>On the ice, the Flyers were able to celebrate around Hart after he turned away 27 of 28 shots, with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/carter-hart-early-birthday-gift-flyers-beat-canadiens-game-1-1st-round-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">16 of those saves coming in the second period when the Flyers really needed him<\/a>.<\/p>Off the ice, they made sure to celebrate Hart's birthday a little early, making the best of the circumstances in the Eastern Conference's Toronto bubble.<\/p>\u201cI think some guys got him some ice cream yesterday after the game and just sang him happy birthday,\" Shayne Gostisbehere said Thursday with a smile. \"He\u2019s been pretty good.\u201d<\/p>\u201cLet him do his thing,\u201d Scott Laughton chimed in about Hart.<\/p>\u201cYeah, let him do his thing,\" Gostisbehere echoed.<\/p>After a short and sweet exchange with Price, Hart did his thing in Game 1.<\/p>\u201cJust said hello quickly in warmups, good luck and it was just time to go play,\" Hart said.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NHLGIFs\/status\/1293708363382087683?s=20<\/p>If Hart continues to play the way he has this season and to start the tournament, he could remember the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs for much more than a memorable matchup with Price.<\/p>But there's a kid in everyone. Then again, Hart is only 22 years old.<\/p>\"He\u2019s a special kid,\" Derek Grant said last week. \"He\u2019s so calm. He puts his mask on, you don\u2019t know how old he is.\"<\/p>With his mask off, Hart hopefully enjoyed a little ice cream and soaked in the moment.<\/p>Sports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p>Subscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p><a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p><h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3><ul><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/canadiens-coach-claude-julien-hospitalized-chest-pain\">Canadiens head coach Julien hospitalized with chest pain<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/carter-hart-early-birthday-gift-flyers-beat-canadiens-game-1-1st-round-nhl-playoffs\">Enjoy that birthday, young man \u2014 Hart leads Flyers to a not-so-easy Game 1 win<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-vs-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-game-1-live-stream-storylines-more\">5 big storylines to watch in Flyers-Canadiens 1st-round series<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-playoff-series-1987-pregame-brawl\">Flyers-Canadiens playoff series reminds us of a brawl that changed hockey<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><\/ul>","summary":"Ice cream and a memory against Carey Price serve as a reminder that Carter Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment. By Jordan Hall<\/p>","format":"filtered_html","safe_value":"When Carey Price was at his most dominant, winning the Vezina Trophy (top goalie) and <\/em>Hart Memorial Trophy (MVP) in 2014-15, Carter Hart was just 16 years old. <\/p>\nThe precocious but innocent kid had just begun molding his game at the junior hockey level with the WHL's Silvertips in Everett, Washington.<\/p>\nPrice was at the sport's pinnacle.<\/p>\n\"He was my favorite goalie growing up,\" Hart said.<\/p>\nOn Wednesday, the night before his 22nd birthday, Hart found himself stretching next to Price at the center-ice line in front of the scorekeepers' bench.<\/p>\nThere was Hart, on the same NHL stage as his idol, facing him in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.<\/p>\nThe NHL postseason is serious business, requiring the utmost competitiveness and focus. Hart, whose youthfulness often belies his maturity, fully understands the beast that is the Stanley Cup Playoffs. But the postseason makes for special moments and memories. NHL players all looked up to someone at some point. For Hart, he allowed himself to appreciate the storyline ahead.<\/p>\n\"Definitely really cool,\" Hart said last Sunday about the upcoming best-of-seven first-round matchup with Price's Canadiens. \"Just had the chance to actually meet him the other week and talk with him for the first time, so that was something pretty cool. For your first playoff series, playing against Carey Price will definitely be a lot of fun; I look forward to it.\"<\/p>\nPrice, who turns 33 years old on Sunday, was unable to spoil the youngster's birthday. By midnight, Hart and the top-seeded Flyers had a 1-0 series lead after earning a hard-fought 2-1 victory over eighth-seeded Montreal. Hart is 3-0-0 with a 1.00 goals-against average and .966 save percentage through three games in the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament.<\/p>\nOn the ice, the Flyers were able to celebrate around Hart after he turned away 27 of 28 shots, with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/carter-hart-early-birthday-gift-flyers-beat-canadiens-game-1-1st-round-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">16 of those saves coming in the second period when the Flyers really needed him<\/a>.<\/p>\nOff the ice, they made sure to celebrate Hart's birthday a little early, making the best of the circumstances in the Eastern Conference's Toronto bubble.<\/p>\n\u201cI think some guys got him some ice cream yesterday after the game and just sang him happy birthday,\" Shayne Gostisbehere said Thursday with a smile. \"He\u2019s been pretty good.\u201d<\/p>\n\u201cLet him do his thing,\u201d Scott Laughton chimed in about Hart.<\/p>\n\u201cYeah, let him do his thing,\" Gostisbehere echoed.<\/p>\nAfter a short and sweet exchange with Price, Hart did his thing in Game 1.<\/p>\n\u201cJust said hello quickly in warmups, good luck and it was just time to go play,\" Hart said.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">When you gotta keep your cool around your idol...and try to beat him in the <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/hashtag\/StanleyCup?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#StanleyCup<\/a> Playoffs! <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/sYU2SYTpR0\">pic.twitter.com\/sYU2SYTpR0<\/a><\/p>— NHL GIFs (@NHLGIFs) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NHLGIFs\/status\/1293708363382087683?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\nIf Hart continues to play the way he has this season and to start the tournament, he could remember the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs for much more than a memorable matchup with Price.<\/p>\nBut there's a kid in everyone. Then again, Hart is only 22 years old.<\/p>\n\"He\u2019s a special kid,\" Derek Grant said last week. \"He\u2019s so calm. He puts his mask on, you don\u2019t know how old he is.\"<\/p>\nWith his mask off, Hart hopefully enjoyed a little ice cream and soaked in the moment.<\/p>\nSports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \nSubscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \n<a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/canadiens-coach-claude-julien-hospitalized-chest-pain\">Canadiens head coach Julien hospitalized with chest pain<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/carter-hart-early-birthday-gift-flyers-beat-canadiens-game-1-1st-round-nhl-playoffs\">Enjoy that birthday, young man \u2014 Hart leads Flyers to a not-so-easy Game 1 win<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-vs-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-game-1-live-stream-storylines-more\">5 big storylines to watch in Flyers-Canadiens 1st-round series<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-playoff-series-1987-pregame-brawl\">Flyers-Canadiens playoff series reminds us of a brawl that changed hockey<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","safe_summary":"Ice cream and a memory against Carey Price serve as a reminder that Carter Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment. By Jordan Hall<\/p>\n"}]},"field_author_reference":{"und":[{"tid":"1056"}]},"field_bean_single_col":{"und":[{"target_id":"3706"}]},"field_chrome_page":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_date_published":{"und":[{"value":"2020-08-14 01:35:00","timezone":"America\/New_York","timezone_db":"UTC","date_type":"datetime"}]},"field_hero_image_credit":{"und":[{"value":"USA Today Images","format":null,"safe_value":"USA Today Images"}]},"field_image":{"und":[{"fid":"2518456","uid":"156","filename":"usa_carter_hart_carey_price.jpg","uri":"public:\/\/2020\/08\/09\/usa_carter_hart_carey_price.jpg","filemime":"image\/jpeg","filesize":"1479459","status":"1","timestamp":"1596989129","origname":"usa_carter_hart_carey_price.jpg","type":"image","field_file_image_alt_text":[],"field_file_image_title_text":[],"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":[],"metadata":{"height":845,"width":1500},"height":"845","width":"1500","alt":null,"title":null}]},"field_league":{"und":[{"tid":"196"}]},"field_section":{"und":[{"tid":"201"}]},"field_short_title":{"und":[{"value":"Ice cream and a memory remind us Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment","format":null,"safe_value":"Ice cream and a memory remind us Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment"}]},"field_sponsor":[],"field_sport":{"und":[{"tid":"191"}]},"field_tags":{"und":[{"tid":"34056"},{"tid":"33456"},{"tid":"2576"},{"tid":"10491"},{"tid":"10486"},{"tid":"5411"},{"tid":"466"},{"tid":"506"}]},"field_team":{"und":[{"tid":"141"}]},"field_top_story":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_video_autoplay":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_videos":{"und":[{"target_id":"799051"}]},"field_tags_hide":[],"field_video_automute":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_editorial_category":{"und":[{"value":"columns"}]},"field_allow_lld_domains":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_enable_stanza":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_exclude_from_yahoo":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"robots":{"value":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","noindex":0,"nofollow":0,"noarchive":0,"nosnippet":0,"noodp":0,"noydir":0,"noimageindex":0,"notranslate":0}},"news_keywords":{"value":"Carter Hart, Carey Price, Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens, NHL playoffs, 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Jordan Hall"}}},"path":{"pathauto":"0"},"name":"JHall","picture":"0","data":"b:0;"},"access":true},{"target_id":"820656","entity":{"vid":"869746","uid":"156","title":"Carter Hart provides early birthday gift as Flyers beat Canadiens in Game 1 of 1st-round NHL playoff series","log":"","status":"1","comment":"0","promote":"0","sticky":"0","nid":"820656","type":"article","language":"und","created":"1597277887","changed":"1597339690","tnid":"0","translate":"0","published":"1597287300","revision_timestamp":"1597339690","revision_uid":"156","body":{"und":[{"value":"<a href=\"http:\/\/scores.nbcsportsphiladelphia.com\/nhl\/boxscore.asp?gamecode=2020081215&home=15&vis=10&meta=true\" target=\"_blank\">BOX SCORE<\/a><\/p>Carter Hart will enjoy his birthday.<\/p>The young netminder delivered a big performance Wednesday night to help the Flyers earn a 2-1 win over the Canadiens in Game 1 of their best-of-seven first-round playoff series at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto.<\/p>So far, so good (in fact, really good) for Hart in his first taste of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.<\/p>Jakub Voracek and Joel Farabee scored goals for the top-seeded Flyers, who are off to a 4-0-0 start in the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament and have yet to trail once.<\/p>Over their last 14 games (10 in the regular season, four in tournament), the Flyers are 13-1-0 and have outscored the opposition 52-23 (plus-29 goal differential). The lone loss was to the Bruins, who finished the regular season with an NHL-best 100 points.<\/p>Wednesday was far from a picture-perfect performance but the Flyers did enough to grind it out, which they'll have to do at times against eighth-seeded Montreal.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293739378448244737?s=20<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/PR_NHL\/status\/1293751547961266177?s=20<\/p>\u2022 In the first chapter of the Hart-Carey Price showdown, the youngster got the better of the veteran.<\/p>Hart, who turned 22 years old at midnight, has been so steady early in games. He had to make only five saves in the opening frame but he hasn't allowed a first-period goal in his last seven games.<\/p>He was a life saver with 16 second-period saves and finished with 27 stops on 28 shots.<\/p>Through three games in the tournament, Hart is 3-0-0 with 84 saves on 87 shots. Can't ask for a better start from him. A major positive.<\/p>Price made a save on Scott Laughton that you'll see all over ESPN's SportsCenter and denied 29 shots. The Flyers know he'll be a tough out.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/CanadiensMTL\/status\/1293725591070552065?s=20<\/p>\u2022 After playing well following his jump to the first line in the round-robin finale with Voracek (undisclosed issue) out, Farabee stayed with Claude Giroux and Sean Couturier in Game 1.<\/p>The 20-year-old rookie winger continued his productive response to the opportunity, scoring a massive goal 16 seconds after Shea Weber tied the game at 1-1 in the second period.<\/p>Farabee went to the net, deflected Travis Sanheim's shot and then pounded home the rebound \u2014 so timely given Montreal had totally swung the momentum in its favor, putting the Flyers on their heels.<\/p>Farabee should stay on that line until he gives the Flyers a reason to not keep him there. He has three points (two goals, one assist) over three games in the 24-team tournament.<\/p><blockquote>He\u2019s been great for us,\" Ivan Provorov said postgame in a video interview. \"It\u2019s his first playoffs, but it doesn\u2019t look like it. He has poise, he\u2019s been making plays, he\u2019s been scoring and helping us big time. I think he deserves to play on that line and he contributes a lot. He\u2019s been going, I think he complements Coots and G really well.<\/p><\/blockquote>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293723496527417345?s=20<\/p>\u2022 The Flyers delivered a pair of early positive signs:<\/p>The power play struck on its first opportunity after going 0 for 11 through the three-game round robin. Provorov, who led all NHL defensemen in man advantage goals during the regular season with seven, blasted a shot from the point and Voracek must have just gotten a piece of it to hand the Flyers a 1-0 advantage.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/PR_NHL\/status\/1293755483740876802?s=20<\/p>The other positive was the ingredients to the goal. The Flyers went with a double screen on Price. Impeding the Montreal netminder's vision will be critical and the Flyers hammered home that point with Couturier and Voracek disrupting.<\/p>Not only is it an effective approach but it can also frustrate Price, who does not like being bumped or obstructed.<\/p>The power play finished 1 for 3 and missed out on a chance to provide insurance in the third period. It didn't cost the Flyers.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293706640999485442?s=20<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293710590108749827?s=20<\/p>\u2022 The second period was troubling for the Flyers. They got a taste of their own medicine. Typically, the Flyers are a team that wants to wear down the opposition with its effort and north-south style. The Flyers are not the fastest team, but the way in which they play makes them tough to play against, which was a huge initiative entering their turnaround season.<\/p>Montreal completely took it to them in the middle stanza. At one point, the Flyers were pinned in their own end and had three failed attempts to clear the puck.<\/p>Leading up to the series opener, Flyers head coach Alain Vigneault warned that Montreal seldom slows down in its pace or energy, which can sneak up on teams if you let it.<\/p>\"That\u2019s a team with real good team speed, there\u2019s no doubt that they work extremely hard,\" Vigneault said in a video interview before the game. \"Those two areas, watching the four games in that Pittsburgh series, caught everybody\u2019s attention. They were extremely quick and extremely hard-working.\"<\/p>Fortunately for the Flyers, Hart was strong and Farabee made his heads up play, allowing the Flyers to leave the second period with a 2-1 edge.<\/p>\u2022 Vigneault gave the Game 1 nod to Shayne Gostisbehere over Robert Hagg, who was the extra defenseman. Gostisbehere truly won his spot in the lineup with impressive work during camp, the exhibition game and one round-robin game.<\/p>He wasn't as impactful against the Canadiens as he was in the 4-1 round-robin win over the Lightning and looked a little shaky in the second period, but so did the Flyers as a whole. Gostisbehere didn't play a ton later in the third period as the Flyers shortened things up.<\/p>Not sure that's enough to sit him in Game 2 but the battle for the lineup will truly be a game-to-game situation. The playoffs are a game-to-game business.<\/p>\u2022 James van Riemsdyk was on the fourth line and played 11:40.<\/p>Nate Thompson, the former Canadien who centers the fourth line, missed a wide-open net late in the third period.<\/p>Overall, the Flyers didn't receive the depth efforts they got throughout the round robin, but the club's role players weren't awful, either.<\/p>The Flyers had a so-so game in general.<\/p>\u2022 The series continues Friday with Game 2 at 3 p.m. ET on NBCSP.<\/p>For the full series schedule, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-schedule-2020-nhl-playoffs-dates-game-times-broadcast-information\" target=\"_blank\">click here<\/a>.<\/p>The Flyers practice Thursday at 1 p.m. ET at the Ford Performance Centre.<\/p>Sports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p>Subscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p><a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p><h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3><ul><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-vs-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-game-1-live-stream-storylines-more\">5 big storylines to watch in Flyers-Canadiens 1st-round series<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-playoff-series-1987-pregame-brawl\">Flyers-Canadiens playoff series reminds us of a brawl that changed hockey<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-canadiens-hype-video-epic-movie-trailer\">Flyers vs. Canadiens hype video or epic movie trailer? You decide<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-first-round-flyers-canadiens-remembering-mike-richards-shift\">There\u2019s no better way to get ready for Flyers-Canadiens than \u2018The Shift\u2019<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><\/ul>","summary":"On the night before his 22nd birthday, Carter Hart was very good when the Flyers weren't at their best but still picked up a 2-1 win Wednesday in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series with the Canadiens. By Jordan Hall<\/p>","format":"filtered_html","safe_value":"<a href=\"http:\/\/scores.nbcsportsphiladelphia.com\/nhl\/boxscore.asp?gamecode=2020081215&home=15&vis=10&meta=true\" target=\"_blank\">BOX SCORE<\/a><\/p>\nCarter Hart will enjoy his birthday.<\/p>\nThe young netminder delivered a big performance Wednesday night to help the Flyers earn a 2-1 win over the Canadiens in Game 1 of their best-of-seven first-round playoff series at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto.<\/p>\nSo far, so good (in fact, really good) for Hart in his first taste of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.<\/p>\nJakub Voracek and Joel Farabee scored goals for the top-seeded Flyers, who are off to a 4-0-0 start in the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament and have yet to trail once.<\/p>\nOver their last 14 games (10 in the regular season, four in tournament), the Flyers are 13-1-0 and have outscored the opposition 52-23 (plus-29 goal differential). The lone loss was to the Bruins, who finished the regular season with an NHL-best 100 points.<\/p>\nWednesday was far from a picture-perfect performance but the Flyers did enough to grind it out, which they'll have to do at times against eighth-seeded Montreal.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">One down. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/EZJISrb9yv\">pic.twitter.com\/EZJISrb9yv<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293739378448244737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n <blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NHLFlyers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@NHLFlyers<\/a> won each of their first 4+ games in a postseason for the sixth time in franchise history. The other instances: 1974 (6-0) 1975 (7-0) 1978 (4-0) 1980 (6-0) 1985 (6-0)<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/hashtag\/NHLStats?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#NHLStats<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/hashtag\/StanleyCup?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#StanleyCup<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/TLjmJMp69H\">pic.twitter.com\/TLjmJMp69H<\/a><\/p>— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/PR_NHL\/status\/1293751547961266177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 In the first chapter of the Hart-Carey Price showdown, the youngster got the better of the veteran.<\/p>\nHart, who turned 22 years old at midnight, has been so steady early in games. He had to make only five saves in the opening frame but he hasn't allowed a first-period goal in his last seven games.<\/p>\nHe was a life saver with 16 second-period saves and finished with 27 stops on 28 shots.<\/p>\nThrough three games in the tournament, Hart is 3-0-0 with 84 saves on 87 shots. Can't ask for a better start from him. A major positive.<\/p>\nPrice made a save on Scott Laughton that you'll see all over ESPN's SportsCenter and denied 29 shots. The Flyers know he'll be a tough out.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">GOOD STICK CAREY \ud83e\udd2f<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/hashtag\/GoHabsGo?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#GoHabsGo<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/0apkZbtYbM\">pic.twitter.com\/0apkZbtYbM<\/a><\/p>— Canadiens Montr\u00e9al (@CanadiensMTL) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/CanadiensMTL\/status\/1293725591070552065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 After playing well following his jump to the first line in the round-robin finale with Voracek (undisclosed issue) out, Farabee stayed with Claude Giroux and Sean Couturier in Game 1.<\/p>\nThe 20-year-old rookie winger continued his productive response to the opportunity, scoring a massive goal 16 seconds after Shea Weber tied the game at 1-1 in the second period.<\/p>\nFarabee went to the net, deflected Travis Sanheim's shot and then pounded home the rebound \u2014 so timely given Montreal had totally swung the momentum in its favor, putting the Flyers on their heels.<\/p>\nFarabee should stay on that line until he gives the Flyers a reason to not keep him there. He has three points (two goals, one assist) over three games in the 24-team tournament.<\/p>\n<blockquote>He\u2019s been great for us,\" Ivan Provorov said postgame in a video interview. \"It\u2019s his first playoffs, but it doesn\u2019t look like it. He has poise, he\u2019s been making plays, he\u2019s been scoring and helping us big time. I think he deserves to play on that line and he contributes a lot. He\u2019s been going, I think he complements Coots and G really well.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">THAT \ud83d\udc4f WAS \ud83d\udc4f FAST \ud83d\udc4f Joel Farabee gets one back, Flyers lead 2-1. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/dQoNPUNoZ9\">pic.twitter.com\/dQoNPUNoZ9<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293723496527417345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 The Flyers delivered a pair of early positive signs:<\/p>\nThe power play struck on its first opportunity after going 0 for 11 through the three-game round robin. Provorov, who led all NHL defensemen in man advantage goals during the regular season with seven, blasted a shot from the point and Voracek must have just gotten a piece of it to hand the Flyers a 1-0 advantage.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">OFFICIAL SCORING CHANGE: Playoff Game 111<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/CanadiensMTL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@CanadiensMTL<\/a> at <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NHLFlyers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@NHLFlyers<\/a> Goal at 8:54 of first period now reads Jakub Voracek from Ivan Provorov and Claude Giroux. <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/hashtag\/NHLStats?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#NHLStats<\/a><\/p>— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/PR_NHL\/status\/1293755483740876802?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\nThe other positive was the ingredients to the goal. The Flyers went with a double screen on Price. Impeding the Montreal netminder's vision will be critical and the Flyers hammered home that point with Couturier and Voracek disrupting.<\/p>\nNot only is it an effective approach but it can also frustrate Price, who does not like being bumped or obstructed.<\/p>\nThe power play finished 1 for 3 and missed out on a chance to provide insurance in the third period. It didn't cost the Flyers.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Goal, scored. Lead, gained. Flyers up, 1-0. | <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/HerrsSnacks?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@HerrsSnacks<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/u4vkkFtwM0\">pic.twitter.com\/u4vkkFtwM0<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293706640999485442?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n <blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Carey Price was not happy about this. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/bhNYS8nIem\">pic.twitter.com\/bhNYS8nIem<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293710590108749827?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 The second period was troubling for the Flyers. They got a taste of their own medicine. Typically, the Flyers are a team that wants to wear down the opposition with its effort and north-south style. The Flyers are not the fastest team, but the way in which they play makes them tough to play against, which was a huge initiative entering their turnaround season.<\/p>\nMontreal completely took it to them in the middle stanza. At one point, the Flyers were pinned in their own end and had three failed attempts to clear the puck.<\/p>\nLeading up to the series opener, Flyers head coach Alain Vigneault warned that Montreal seldom slows down in its pace or energy, which can sneak up on teams if you let it.<\/p>\n\"That\u2019s a team with real good team speed, there\u2019s no doubt that they work extremely hard,\" Vigneault said in a video interview before the game. \"Those two areas, watching the four games in that Pittsburgh series, caught everybody\u2019s attention. They were extremely quick and extremely hard-working.\"<\/p>\nFortunately for the Flyers, Hart was strong and Farabee made his heads up play, allowing the Flyers to leave the second period with a 2-1 edge.<\/p>\n\u2022 Vigneault gave the Game 1 nod to Shayne Gostisbehere over Robert Hagg, who was the extra defenseman. Gostisbehere truly won his spot in the lineup with impressive work during camp, the exhibition game and one round-robin game.<\/p>\nHe wasn't as impactful against the Canadiens as he was in the 4-1 round-robin win over the Lightning and looked a little shaky in the second period, but so did the Flyers as a whole. Gostisbehere didn't play a ton later in the third period as the Flyers shortened things up.<\/p>\nNot sure that's enough to sit him in Game 2 but the battle for the lineup will truly be a game-to-game situation. The playoffs are a game-to-game business.<\/p>\n\u2022 James van Riemsdyk was on the fourth line and played 11:40.<\/p>\nNate Thompson, the former Canadien who centers the fourth line, missed a wide-open net late in the third period.<\/p>\nOverall, the Flyers didn't receive the depth efforts they got throughout the round robin, but the club's role players weren't awful, either.<\/p>\nThe Flyers had a so-so game in general.<\/p>\n\u2022 The series continues Friday with Game 2 at 3 p.m. ET on NBCSP.<\/p>\nFor the full series schedule, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-schedule-2020-nhl-playoffs-dates-game-times-broadcast-information\" target=\"_blank\">click here<\/a>.<\/p>\nThe Flyers practice Thursday at 1 p.m. ET at the Ford Performance Centre.<\/p>\nSports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \nSubscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \n<a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-vs-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-game-1-live-stream-storylines-more\">5 big storylines to watch in Flyers-Canadiens 1st-round series<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-playoff-series-1987-pregame-brawl\">Flyers-Canadiens playoff series reminds us of a brawl that changed hockey<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-canadiens-hype-video-epic-movie-trailer\">Flyers vs. Canadiens hype video or epic movie trailer? You decide<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-first-round-flyers-canadiens-remembering-mike-richards-shift\">There\u2019s no better way to get ready for Flyers-Canadiens than \u2018The Shift\u2019<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","safe_summary":"On the night before his 22nd birthday, Carter Hart was very good when the Flyers weren't at their best but still picked up a 2-1 win Wednesday in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series with the Canadiens. By Jordan Hall<\/p>\n"}]},"field_author_reference":{"und":[{"tid":"1056"}]},"field_bean_single_col":{"und":[{"target_id":"3706"}]},"field_chrome_page":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_date_published":{"und":[{"value":"2020-08-13 02:55:00","timezone":"America\/New_York","timezone_db":"UTC","date_type":"datetime"}]},"field_hero_image_credit":{"und":[{"value":"USA Today Images\/Dan Hamilton","format":null,"safe_value":"USA Today Images\/Dan Hamilton"}]},"field_image":{"und":[{"fid":"2525916","uid":"156","filename":"usa_carter_hart_joel_farabee.jpg","uri":"public:\/\/2020\/08\/12\/usa_carter_hart_joel_farabee.jpg","filemime":"image\/jpeg","filesize":"1077025","status":"1","timestamp":"1597291975","origname":"usa_carter_hart_2.jpg","type":"image","field_file_image_alt_text":[],"field_file_image_title_text":[],"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"title":{"value":"[current-page:title] | [current-page:pager][site:name]","default":"[current-page:title] | 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that birthday, young man \u2014 Hart leads Flyers to a not-so-easy Game 1 win","format":null,"safe_value":"Enjoy that birthday, young man \u2014 Hart leads Flyers to a not-so-easy Game 1 win"}]},"field_sponsor":[],"field_sport":{"und":[{"tid":"191"}]},"field_tags":{"und":[{"tid":"34056"},{"tid":"22636"},{"tid":"33456"},{"tid":"2576"},{"tid":"10491"},{"tid":"466"},{"tid":"506"}]},"field_team":{"und":[{"tid":"141"}]},"field_top_story":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_video_autoplay":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_videos":{"und":[{"target_id":"820706"}]},"field_tags_hide":[],"field_video_automute":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_editorial_category":{"und":[{"value":"analysis"}]},"field_allow_lld_domains":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_enable_stanza":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_exclude_from_yahoo":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"robots":{"value":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","noindex":0,"nofollow":0,"noarchive":0,"nosnippet":0,"noodp":0,"noydir":0,"noimageindex":0,"notranslate":0}},"news_keywords":{"value":"Flyers observations, Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens, Jordan Hall, NHL playoffs, 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs"}}},"path":{"pathauto":"0"},"name":"JHall","picture":"0","data":"b:0;"},"access":true},{"target_id":"819906","entity":{"vid":"868996","uid":"156","title":"Flyers-Canadiens schedule for 2020 NHL playoffs: Dates, game times, broadcast information","log":"","status":"1","comment":"0","promote":"0","sticky":"0","nid":"819906","type":"article","language":"und","created":"1597072222","changed":"1597111145","tnid":"0","translate":"0","published":"1597074600","revision_timestamp":"1597111145","revision_uid":"156","body":{"und":[{"value":"After sweeping the round robin to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-beat-lightning-sweep-round-robin-no-1-seed-2020-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">earn the Eastern Conference's No. 1 seed<\/a>, the Flyers on Wednesday will begin what they hope is a long and prosperous run through the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs.<\/p>Wednesday marks Game 1 of the Flyers' best-of-seven first-round series against the 12th-seeded (or the new eighth-seeded) Canadiens, who upset the Penguins in the best-of-five qualifying round.<\/p>As the higher seed, the Flyers are the home team for the first two games, as well as Games 5 and 7, if necessary. With no fans, the home-away distinction still holds importance because home teams are awarded the last line change in games, which can be critical to matchups when outcomes are in the balance.<\/p>For Game 3 on the national broadcast, NBC Sports Philadephia will still hold Flyers Pregame Live and Postgame Live shows with analysis and interviews. That will be the case for any games on the national broadcast.<\/p>Another thing to note is the potential back-to-back scenario with Games 4 and 5. Carter Hart played only once on no days rest during the regular season and it was in relief duty. Canadiens veteran goaltender Carey Price, who turns 33 years old on Sunday, played on no days rest four times, going 0-2-2 with a 3.76 goals-against average and .864 save percentage.<\/p>The Flyers went 2-1-0 against Montreal in the regular season, with a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-keep-late-fun-coming-thanks-overtime-win-canadiens-company-2011-12-team\" target=\"_blank\">3-2 overtime win Nov. 7<\/a>, a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-cap-special-november-enter-december-most-points-eric-lindros-led-1995-96-team\" target=\"_blank\">4-3 overtime victory Nov. 30<\/a> and a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-upended-canadiens-type-of-loss-always-seems-anger-fans\" target=\"_blank\">4-1 loss Jan. 16<\/a>.<\/p>Below is the full Flyers-Canadiens first-round schedule:<\/p>Game 1<\/strong> \u2014 Wednesday, Aug. 12, 8 p.m. ET, NBCSP Game 2<\/strong> \u2014 Friday, Aug. 14, 3 p.m. ET, NBCSP Game 3<\/strong> \u2014 Sunday, Aug. 16, 8 p.m. ET, NBC Game 4<\/strong> \u2014 Tuesday, Aug. 18, 3 p.m. ET, NBCSP Game 5<\/strong> \u2014 Wednesday, Aug. 19, TBD, TBD Game 6<\/strong> \u2014 Friday, Aug. 21, TBD, TBD Game 7<\/strong> \u2014 Sunday, Aug. 23, TBD, TBD<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1293003719961915393?s=20<\/p>Below are the schedules for the other seven first-round series:<\/p><h2>Eastern Conference<\/strong><\/h2>[[{\"fid\":\"2520491\",\"view_mode\":\"default\",\"fields\":{\"format\":\"default\",\"field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]\":false,\"field_file_image_title_text[und][0][value]\":false},\"type\":\"media\",\"field_deltas\":{\"1\":{\"format\":\"default\",\"field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]\":false,\"field_file_image_title_text[und][0][value]\":false}},\"attributes\":{\"class\":\"media-element file-default\",\"data-delta\":\"1\"}}]]<\/p><h2>Western Conference<\/strong><\/h2>[[{\"fid\":\"2520501\",\"view_mode\":\"default\",\"fields\":{\"format\":\"default\",\"field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]\":false,\"field_file_image_title_text[und][0][value]\":false},\"type\":\"media\",\"field_deltas\":{\"2\":{\"format\":\"default\",\"field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]\":false,\"field_file_image_title_text[und][0][value]\":false}},\"attributes\":{\"class\":\"media-element file-default\",\"data-delta\":\"2\"}}]]<\/p>Sports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p>Subscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/c143960b-2aaf-420e-a2b2-cc53dce8aba7\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p><a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p><h3 dir=\"ltr\">More Flyers analysis for playoffs<\/strong><\/h3>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-stanley-cup-odds-flyers-golden-knights-draftkings-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Cup crazy? East's top-seeded Flyers have great odds<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-beat-lightning-sweep-round-robin-no-1-seed-2020-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">How sweep it is \u2014 Flyers run through round robin, earn East's No. 1 seed<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-out-james-van-riemsdyk-back-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs-round-robin-lightning\" target=\"_blank\">Voracek out, JVR back after interesting scratch and more Flyers changes<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dont-expect-flyers-be-mingling-rivals-hotel-x-toronto-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Don't expect the Flyers to be mingling with their rivals at Hotel X Toronto<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Costly injury comes at interesting time, creates more decisions for Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p><section id=\"carousel-wrapper\">\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-team-hot-streak-round-robin\" target=\"_blank\">The Flyers were never on a hot streak \u2014 they're just that good<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-stanley-cup-predictions\" target=\"_blank\">Can the Flyers go all the way? Our Stanley Cup predictions are here<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/picture-collage-and-signs-show-love-flyers-they-eye-stanley-cup-run-toronto\" target=\"_blank\">Picture collage and signs show love for Flyers as they eye Cup run in Toronto<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/sean-couturier-nhl-playoffs-bubble-stanley-cup-item-baby-book\" target=\"_blank\">Couturier's goals in NHL bubble: Stanley Cup and an important baby book item<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-shirts\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers announce playoff roster, have fans going crazy over shirts<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-stanley-cup-odds-flyers-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">All types of Flyers odds (including the Cup) in NHL's 24-team tourney<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dave-scott-couldnt-be-happier-flyers-chuck-fletcher-theres-more-action-be-done\" target=\"_blank\">Scott 'couldn't be happier' with Flyers, but there's more action to be done<\/a><\/strong><\/p><\/section>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-flyers-contract-signed-extension\" target=\"_blank\">Lindblom has new contract, his comeback is on with Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-canadiens-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_self\">Flyers-Canadiens is perfect on paper, but would it be a trap?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-explains-absence-flyers-training-camp-scrimmage\" target=\"_blank\">What happened? Voracek says calm down, he's fine ... now you know<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <\/b><\/font><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-shirts-sale-fans\" target=\"_blank\">Fans can purchase Flyers playoff shirts with new slogan<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-training-camp-day-1-different-times\" target=\"_blank\">What it was like to go back to work at Flyers practice in different times<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-odds-24-team-tournament-season\" target=\"_blank\">5 questions on Flyers' chances in 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/predictions-flyers-lineup-nhl-24-team-stanley-cup-playoffs-plan-return-coronavirus-suspension\" target=\"_blank\">Predictions for Flyers' best Game 1 lineup to start 24-team playoff<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-top-5-reinforcements\" target=\"_blank\">Who are the Flyers' top 5 reinforcements for 24-team tournament?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/brian-elliott-has-sweet-new-goalie-mask-flyers-nhl-playoffs-run\" target=\"_blank\">Elliott has sweet new mask for Flyers' playoff run<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-sign-mark-friedman-2-year-contract-extension\" target=\"_self\">Flyers sign a player to extension at position of strength<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-nhl-nhlpa-ratify-return-to-play-cba-schedule\" target=\"_blank\">What to know as NHL, NHLPA finish big step, announce schedule<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-free-agency-justin-braun-derek-grant-flyers\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers have two top 50 pending UFAs; will they re-sign them?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-2020-format-details-plan-stanley-cup-24-team-tournament\" target=\"_blank\">Everything Flyers fans need to know for NHL's 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/gary-bettman-flyers-mascot-gritty-cant-be-toronto-bubble-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Bettman gives Gritty the hard truth for why he can't be in Toronto bubble<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-key-dates-coronavirus-testing-protocols-return-to-play\" target=\"_blank\">Key dates, protocols announced as Flyers return<\/a><\/strong><\/p>","summary":"A look at the Flyers-Canadiens schedule for the first round of the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs. By Jordan Hall<\/p>","format":"filtered_html","safe_value":"After sweeping the round robin to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-beat-lightning-sweep-round-robin-no-1-seed-2020-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">earn the Eastern Conference's No. 1 seed<\/a>, the Flyers on Wednesday will begin what they hope is a long and prosperous run through the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs.<\/p>\nWednesday marks Game 1 of the Flyers' best-of-seven first-round series against the 12th-seeded (or the new eighth-seeded) Canadiens, who upset the Penguins in the best-of-five qualifying round.<\/p>\nAs the higher seed, the Flyers are the home team for the first two games, as well as Games 5 and 7, if necessary. With no fans, the home-away distinction still holds importance because home teams are awarded the last line change in games, which can be critical to matchups when outcomes are in the balance.<\/p>\nFor Game 3 on the national broadcast, NBC Sports Philadephia will still hold Flyers Pregame Live and Postgame Live shows with analysis and interviews. That will be the case for any games on the national broadcast.<\/p>\nAnother thing to note is the potential back-to-back scenario with Games 4 and 5. Carter Hart played only once on no days rest during the regular season and it was in relief duty. Canadiens veteran goaltender Carey Price, who turns 33 years old on Sunday, played on no days rest four times, going 0-2-2 with a 3.76 goals-against average and .864 save percentage.<\/p>\nThe Flyers went 2-1-0 against Montreal in the regular season, with a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-keep-late-fun-coming-thanks-overtime-win-canadiens-company-2011-12-team\" target=\"_blank\">3-2 overtime win Nov. 7<\/a>, a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-cap-special-november-enter-december-most-points-eric-lindros-led-1995-96-team\" target=\"_blank\">4-3 overtime victory Nov. 30<\/a> and a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-upended-canadiens-type-of-loss-always-seems-anger-fans\" target=\"_blank\">4-1 loss Jan. 16<\/a>.<\/p>\nBelow is the full Flyers-Canadiens first-round schedule:<\/p>\nGame 1<\/strong> \u2014 Wednesday, Aug. 12, 8 p.m. ET, NBCSP Game 2<\/strong> \u2014 Friday, Aug. 14, 3 p.m. ET, NBCSP Game 3<\/strong> \u2014 Sunday, Aug. 16, 8 p.m. ET, NBC Game 4<\/strong> \u2014 Tuesday, Aug. 18, 3 p.m. ET, NBCSP Game 5<\/strong> \u2014 Wednesday, Aug. 19, TBD, TBD Game 6<\/strong> \u2014 Friday, Aug. 21, TBD, TBD Game 7<\/strong> \u2014 Sunday, Aug. 23, TBD, TBD<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Including round robin and regular season, Flyers are 17-6-3 vs. seven remaining teams in East playoff field: 2. Lightning \u2014 1-2-0 3. Capitals \u2014 4-0-1 4. Bruins \u2014 3-1-0 5. Hurricanes \u2014 3-0-1 6. Islanders \u2014 0-2-1 7. Blue Jackets \u2014 4-0-0 8. Canadiens \u2014 2-1-0<\/p>— Jordan Hall (@JHallNBCS) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1293003719961915393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 11, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\nBelow are the schedules for the other seven first-round series:<\/p>\n<h2>Eastern Conference<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div class=\"media media-element-container media-default\"><div id=\"file-2520491--54\" class=\"file file-image file-image-jpeg\">\r\n\r\n <h2 class=\"element-invisible\"><a href=\"\/files\/eastjpg\">east.jpg<\/a><\/h2>\r\n \r\n \r\n <div class=\"content\">\r\n <img class=\"media-element file-default\" data-delta=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/sites\/csnphilly\/files\/east.jpg\" width=\"1401\" height=\"817\" alt=\"\" \/> <\/div>\r\n\r\n \r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div><\/p>\n<h2>Western Conference<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div class=\"media media-element-container media-default\"><div id=\"file-2520501--54\" class=\"file file-image file-image-jpeg\">\r\n\r\n <h2 class=\"element-invisible\"><a href=\"\/files\/westjpg\">west.jpg<\/a><\/h2>\r\n \r\n \r\n <div class=\"content\">\r\n <img class=\"media-element file-default\" data-delta=\"2\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/sites\/csnphilly\/files\/west.jpg\" width=\"1416\" height=\"1083\" alt=\"\" \/> <\/div>\r\n\r\n \r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div><\/p>\nSports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \nSubscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/c143960b-2aaf-420e-a2b2-cc53dce8aba7\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \n<a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\">More Flyers analysis for playoffs<\/strong><\/h3>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-stanley-cup-odds-flyers-golden-knights-draftkings-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Cup crazy? East's top-seeded Flyers have great odds<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-beat-lightning-sweep-round-robin-no-1-seed-2020-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">How sweep it is \u2014 Flyers run through round robin, earn East's No. 1 seed<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-out-james-van-riemsdyk-back-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs-round-robin-lightning\" target=\"_blank\">Voracek out, JVR back after interesting scratch and more Flyers changes<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dont-expect-flyers-be-mingling-rivals-hotel-x-toronto-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Don't expect the Flyers to be mingling with their rivals at Hotel X Toronto<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Costly injury comes at interesting time, creates more decisions for Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-team-hot-streak-round-robin\" target=\"_blank\">The Flyers were never on a hot streak \u2014 they're just that good<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-stanley-cup-predictions\" target=\"_blank\">Can the Flyers go all the way? Our Stanley Cup predictions are here<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/picture-collage-and-signs-show-love-flyers-they-eye-stanley-cup-run-toronto\" target=\"_blank\">Picture collage and signs show love for Flyers as they eye Cup run in Toronto<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/sean-couturier-nhl-playoffs-bubble-stanley-cup-item-baby-book\" target=\"_blank\">Couturier's goals in NHL bubble: Stanley Cup and an important baby book item<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-shirts\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers announce playoff roster, have fans going crazy over shirts<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-stanley-cup-odds-flyers-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">All types of Flyers odds (including the Cup) in NHL's 24-team tourney<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dave-scott-couldnt-be-happier-flyers-chuck-fletcher-theres-more-action-be-done\" target=\"_blank\">Scott 'couldn't be happier' with Flyers, but there's more action to be done<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-flyers-contract-signed-extension\" target=\"_blank\">Lindblom has new contract, his comeback is on with Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-canadiens-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_self\">Flyers-Canadiens is perfect on paper, but would it be a trap?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-explains-absence-flyers-training-camp-scrimmage\" target=\"_blank\">What happened? Voracek says calm down, he's fine ... now you know<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-shirts-sale-fans\" target=\"_blank\">Fans can purchase Flyers playoff shirts with new slogan<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-training-camp-day-1-different-times\" target=\"_blank\">What it was like to go back to work at Flyers practice in different times<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-odds-24-team-tournament-season\" target=\"_blank\">5 questions on Flyers' chances in 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/predictions-flyers-lineup-nhl-24-team-stanley-cup-playoffs-plan-return-coronavirus-suspension\" target=\"_blank\">Predictions for Flyers' best Game 1 lineup to start 24-team playoff<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-top-5-reinforcements\" target=\"_blank\">Who are the Flyers' top 5 reinforcements for 24-team tournament?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/brian-elliott-has-sweet-new-goalie-mask-flyers-nhl-playoffs-run\" target=\"_blank\">Elliott has sweet new mask for Flyers' playoff run<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-sign-mark-friedman-2-year-contract-extension\" target=\"_self\">Flyers sign a player to extension at position of strength<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-nhl-nhlpa-ratify-return-to-play-cba-schedule\" target=\"_blank\">What to know as NHL, NHLPA finish big step, announce schedule<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-free-agency-justin-braun-derek-grant-flyers\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers have two top 50 pending UFAs; will they re-sign them?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-2020-format-details-plan-stanley-cup-24-team-tournament\" target=\"_blank\">Everything Flyers fans need to know for NHL's 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/gary-bettman-flyers-mascot-gritty-cant-be-toronto-bubble-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Bettman gives Gritty the hard truth for why he can't be in Toronto bubble<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-key-dates-coronavirus-testing-protocols-return-to-play\" target=\"_blank\">Key dates, protocols announced as Flyers return<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n","safe_summary":"A look at the Flyers-Canadiens schedule for the first round of the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs. By Jordan Hall<\/p>\n"}]},"field_author_reference":{"und":[{"tid":"1056"}]},"field_bean_single_col":{"und":[{"target_id":"3706"}]},"field_chrome_page":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_date_published":{"und":[{"value":"2020-08-10 15:50:00","timezone":"America\/New_York","timezone_db":"UTC","date_type":"datetime"}]},"field_hero_image_credit":{"und":[{"value":"USA Today Images","format":null,"safe_value":"USA Today Images"}]},"field_image":{"und":[{"fid":"2520481","uid":"156","filename":"usa_carter_hart_carey_price_flyers_canadiens.jpg","uri":"public:\/\/2020\/08\/10\/usa_carter_hart_carey_price_flyers_canadiens.jpg","filemime":"image\/jpeg","filesize":"1498563","status":"1","timestamp":"1597071978","origname":"usa_carter_hart_carey_price_flyers_canadiens.jpg","type":"image","field_file_image_alt_text":[],"field_file_image_title_text":[],"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":[],"metadata":{"height":845,"width":1500},"height":"845","width":"1500","alt":null,"title":null}]},"field_league":{"und":[{"tid":"196"}]},"field_section":{"und":[{"tid":"201"}]},"field_short_title":{"und":[{"value":"A look at Flyers-Canadiens schedule with different aspects to note","format":null,"safe_value":"A look at Flyers-Canadiens schedule with different aspects to note"}]},"field_sponsor":[],"field_sport":{"und":[{"tid":"191"}]},"field_tags":{"und":[{"tid":"34056"},{"tid":"10491"},{"tid":"33456"},{"tid":"2576"},{"tid":"27086"},{"tid":"466"},{"tid":"506"}]},"field_team":{"und":[{"tid":"141"}]},"field_top_story":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_video_autoplay":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_videos":{"und":[{"target_id":"819581"}]},"field_tags_hide":[],"field_video_automute":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_editorial_category":{"und":[{"value":"analysis"}]},"field_allow_lld_domains":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_enable_stanza":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_exclude_from_yahoo":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"robots":{"value":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","noindex":0,"nofollow":0,"noarchive":0,"nosnippet":0,"noodp":0,"noydir":0,"noimageindex":0,"notranslate":0}},"news_keywords":{"value":"Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens, NHL playoffs schedule, Flyers-Canadiens schedule, Jordan Hall"}}},"path":{"pathauto":"1"},"name":"JHall","picture":"0","data":"b:0;"},"access":true},{"target_id":"819521","entity":{"vid":"868601","uid":"156","title":"Flyers sweep round robin, earn East's No. 1 seed in 2020 NHL playoffs","log":"","status":"1","comment":"0","promote":"0","sticky":"0","nid":"819521","type":"article","language":"und","created":"1596931637","changed":"1597091184","tnid":"0","translate":"0","published":"1596942000","revision_timestamp":"1597091184","revision_uid":"156","body":{"und":[{"value":"<a href=\"http:\/\/scores.nbcsportsphiladelphia.com\/nhl\/boxscore.asp?gamecode=2020080920&home=20&vis=15\" target=\"_blank\">BOX SCORE<\/a><\/p>Heading into the first round of the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs, everyone is looking up at the Flyers.<\/p>For the first time since 2000, the Flyers will be the Eastern Conference's No. 1 seed in the postseason after winning the round robin of the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament.<\/p>They punctuated their climb Saturday night with a 4-1 win over the Lightning at Scotiabank Arena in the Eastern Conference's hub city Toronto.<\/p>Nicolas Aube-Kubel had a big game with two goals, while Joel Farabee and Tyler Pitlick tallied markers, as well.<\/p>After going 3-0-0 through the round robin, the top-seeded Flyers will face the 12th-seeded Canadiens in the first round of the playoffs.<\/p>Back in 2000, the year of the Flyers' five-overtime playoff classic with the Penguins, the team lost the Eastern Conference Final to the eventual champion Devils in seven games.<\/p>Twenty years later, it's the No. 1 seed again.<\/p>\"We're excited here,\" Farabee said postgame in a video interview. \"We're ready to go dancing.\"<\/p>\u2022 Just how impressive were the Flyers in the round robin? They swept the Bruins, Capitals and Lightning by a combined score of 11-3.<\/p>Pretty darn good tune-up for the Flyers as the real deal begins next week. They've always been a confident team, particularly from January on, but this was a measuring-stick round-robin tourney and they turned heads.<\/p>The Capitals and Bruins finish the round robin Sunday (noon ET).<\/p>1. Flyers<\/strong> \u2014 3-0-0, six points 2. Lightning<\/strong> \u2014 2-1-0, four points 3. Capitals<\/strong> \u2014 0-1-1, one point 4. Bruins<\/strong> \u2014 0-2-0, zero points<\/p>\u2022 NBC Sports analyst Keith Jones mentioned at intermission how the Flyers come at their opponents in waves. Their depth was excellent through the round robin and will be arguably their biggest difference-maker in a playoff run.<\/p>In the round robin, Claude Giroux went scoreless, James van Riemsdyk went scoreless in two games, Jakub Voracek had an assist in two games, Sean Couturier had a few assists, Travis Konecny (two assists) didn't have to score a goal, Kevin Hayes (four assists) didn't have to score a goal, and the Flyers convincingly earned the No. 1 seed.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1292319384468422657?s=20<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1292470200185626625?s=20<\/p>\u2022 Carter Hart, who turns 22 years old next Thursday, looks primed for the first round.<\/p>The Bruins had an NHL-most 100 points during the regular season. The Lightning scored an NHL-best 3.47 goals per game. Hart totaled 57 saves on 59 shots in matchups with those clubs.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1292300577523863553?s=20<\/p>\u2022 In 2018-19, Aube-Kubel got his first taste of the NHL ... hardly. Called up from AHL affiliate Lehigh Valley, Aube-Kubel went scoreless in a nine-game stint with the big club, playing only 5:35 minutes per night.<\/p>\u201cIt\u2019s pretty hard, especially when you spend some 15 minutes without playing, 10 minutes without playing, so it\u2019s really hard for the legs,\" Aube-Kubel said in February about the limited minutes last season. \"When you\u2019re out there, you\u2019re just so stressed about not making a mistake that you don\u2019t really show anything.<\/p>\u201cLast year, I didn\u2019t really get a good chance to show what I could do. I\u2019m glad this year \u2026 even in my first game, I got put in a good situation with good players and it worked out for me.\u201d<\/p>In 2019-20, the Flyers eventually summoned Aube-Kubel in mid-December. The new coaching staff has done a solid job of giving him opportunity but also constantly keeping him motivated. It's resulted in a hungry, hard-working, forechecking winger who gave the Flyers a monstrous boost against the Lightning with the club's first two goals.<\/p>In a game against the loaded Lightning, the 24-year-old Aube-Kubel was one of the best players on the ice. During training camp last month, he mentioned how his style of play suits the playoffs. It sure looked like it Saturday. The Flyers would love that type of effort and jolt throughout the playoffs.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1292259258294308866?s=20<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1292261177179934720?s=20<\/p>\u2022 It appears the Flyers avoided what would have been a costly injury right before the first round.<\/p>Travis Sanheim left the game 22 seconds into the second period after taking a hit from Blake Coleman. It looked Sanheim was nursing his wrist or arm after the check as he went up the tunnel.<\/p>Fortunately for the Flyers, Sanheim returned later in the period.<\/p>\u2022 An injury scare like that creates a reminder of the Flyers' young, promising stable of blueliners. Playing his first round-robin game, Shayne Gostisbehere reminded everyone of his game.<\/p>If Gostisbehere is the Flyers' seventh defenseman, he did everything to potentially shake that status moving forward. Gostisbehere, who has had to undergo arthroscopic surgeries on both of his knees in 2020, had a good camp and said he has felt \"10 times better\" compared to during the regular season.<\/p>Against Tampa Bay, he looked like his mobile, confident, making-things-happen self from the blue line, recording two assists and a plus-2 rating. Gostisbehere made a sharp play to help create Aube-Kubel's first goal and showed his vision to assist Farabee's goal, which was a big one as it extended the Flyers' lead to 3-1 in the middle frame.<\/p>\"That was a hard pass from Ghost, it takes a special skill set to be able to one-time that,\" Flyers head coach Alain Vigneault said postgame in a video interview. \"Great play by Ghost but also great shot by Joel.\"<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1292275800281055233?s=20<\/p>The 27-year-old offensive-minded defenseman displayed good instincts defensively, as well.<\/p>A performance like that will have Vigneault thinking, that's for sure. The sixth and final spot on defense will come down to Robert Hagg and Gostisbehere. Hagg likely has the slight edge for now, but Gostisbehere has drawn much closer and should be called upon if the Flyers don't have a positive start to the first round.<\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-out-james-van-riemsdyk-back-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs-round-robin-lightning\" target=\"_blank\">With Voracek out (undisclosed issue)<\/a>, Farabee jumped to the first line. Given he opened the tournament fighting for a spot in the lineup and likely the bottom six, this was a golden opportunity for the 20-year-old rookie winger.<\/p>He took advantage of it pretty well, scoring a goal and tallying an assist. His game allows him to scale the lineup but he truly stands out when he's with talented players. Good stuff from him and he's pushing for a bigger role, especially depending on the statuses of Voracek and Michael Raffl (undisclosed injury), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">who missed the final two games of the round robin<\/a>.<\/p>\"You look at our lineup, we have such great depth,\" Farabee said postgame in a video interview. \"Ghosty and I are sliding in, we've got guys sliding out, coming back in, it just goes to show how good of a team we are and how deep we are.\"<\/p>\u2022 The power play never really got going during the round robin as the Flyers finished 0 for 11 through the three games. That will have to be better over a course of a best-of-seven series.<\/p>\u2022 The Flyers caught some breaks throughout the round robin, but give them credit for taking advantage of those breaks.<\/p>They didn't face Vezina Trophy finalist Tuukka Rask in the 4-1 win over the Bruins. They didn't see James Norris Memorial Trophy finalist John Carlson in the 3-1 win over the Capitals.<\/p>Against the Lightning, they avoided Steven Stamkos (lower-body injury), who had 66 points in 57 games during the regular season. In the first period, Tampa Bay also lost stud defenseman Victor Hedman (undisclosed injury), who is also a finalist for the Norris Trophy.<\/p>These games weren't necessarily close, though, either \u2014 the Flyers did damage against three of the best clubs in the NHL.<\/p>\u2022 As the No. 1 seed in the first round, the Flyers face the 12th-seeded Canadiens, who upset the fifth-seeded Penguins in the best-of-five qualifying round, taking the series 3-1.<\/p>The Flyers went 2-1-0 against Montreal in the regular season, with a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-keep-late-fun-coming-thanks-overtime-win-canadiens-company-2011-12-team\" target=\"_blank\">3-2 overtime win Nov. 7<\/a>, a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-cap-special-november-enter-december-most-points-eric-lindros-led-1995-96-team\" target=\"_blank\">4-3 overtime victory Nov. 30<\/a> and a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-upended-canadiens-type-of-loss-always-seems-anger-fans\" target=\"_blank\">4-1 loss Jan. 16<\/a>.<\/p>The first round of the playoffs is scheduled to begin next Tuesday. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-schedule-2020-nhl-playoffs-dates-game-times-broadcast-information\" target=\"_blank\">The Flyers' schedule<\/a> is to be determined.<\/p>Sports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p>Subscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/c143960b-2aaf-420e-a2b2-cc53dce8aba7\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p><a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p><h3 dir=\"ltr\">More Flyers analysis for 24-team tournament<\/strong><\/h3>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-out-james-van-riemsdyk-back-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs-round-robin-lightning\" target=\"_blank\">Voracek out, JVR back after interesting scratch and more Flyers changes<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dont-expect-flyers-be-mingling-rivals-hotel-x-toronto-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Don't expect the Flyers to be mingling with their rivals at Hotel X Toronto<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Costly injury comes at interesting time, creates more decisions for Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p><section id=\"carousel-wrapper\">\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-team-hot-streak-round-robin\" target=\"_blank\">The Flyers were never on a hot streak \u2014 they're just that good<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-stanley-cup-predictions\" target=\"_blank\">Can the Flyers go all the way? Our Stanley Cup predictions are here<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/picture-collage-and-signs-show-love-flyers-they-eye-stanley-cup-run-toronto\" target=\"_blank\">Picture collage and signs show love for Flyers as they eye Cup run in Toronto<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/sean-couturier-nhl-playoffs-bubble-stanley-cup-item-baby-book\" target=\"_blank\">Couturier's goals in NHL bubble: Stanley Cup and an important baby book item<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-blue-jackets-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_blank\">Could Flyers still share the wealth against Blue Jackets in 1st round?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-shirts\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers announce playoff roster, have fans going crazy over shirts<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-stanley-cup-odds-flyers-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">All types of Flyers odds (including the Cup) in NHL's 24-team tourney<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dave-scott-couldnt-be-happier-flyers-chuck-fletcher-theres-more-action-be-done\" target=\"_blank\">Scott 'couldn't be happier' with Flyers, but there's more action to be done<\/a><\/strong><\/p><\/section>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-flyers-contract-signed-extension\" target=\"_blank\">Lindblom has new contract, his comeback is on with Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-canadiens-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_self\">Flyers-Canadiens is perfect on paper, but would it be a trap?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-explains-absence-flyers-training-camp-scrimmage\" target=\"_blank\">What happened? Voracek says calm down, he's fine ... now you know<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <\/b><\/font><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-shirts-sale-fans\" target=\"_blank\">Fans can purchase Flyers playoff shirts with new slogan<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-training-camp-day-1-different-times\" target=\"_blank\">What it was like to go back to work at Flyers practice in different times<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-odds-24-team-tournament-season\" target=\"_blank\">5 questions on Flyers' chances in 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/predictions-flyers-lineup-nhl-24-team-stanley-cup-playoffs-plan-return-coronavirus-suspension\" target=\"_blank\">Predictions for Flyers' best Game 1 lineup to start 24-team playoff<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-top-5-reinforcements\" target=\"_blank\">Who are the Flyers' top 5 reinforcements for 24-team tournament?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/brian-elliott-has-sweet-new-goalie-mask-flyers-nhl-playoffs-run\" target=\"_blank\">Elliott has sweet new mask for Flyers' playoff run<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-sign-mark-friedman-2-year-contract-extension\" target=\"_self\">Flyers sign a player to extension at position of strength<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-nhl-nhlpa-ratify-return-to-play-cba-schedule\" target=\"_blank\">What to know as NHL, NHLPA finish big step, announce schedule<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-free-agency-justin-braun-derek-grant-flyers\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers have two top 50 pending UFAs; will they re-sign them?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-2020-format-details-plan-stanley-cup-24-team-tournament\" target=\"_blank\">Everything Flyers fans need to know for NHL's 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/gary-bettman-flyers-mascot-gritty-cant-be-toronto-bubble-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Bettman gives Gritty the hard truth for why he can't be in Toronto bubble<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-key-dates-coronavirus-testing-protocols-return-to-play\" target=\"_blank\">Key dates, protocols announced as Flyers return<\/a><\/strong><\/p>","summary":"For the first time since 2000, the Flyers will be the Eastern Conference's No. 1 seed in the postseason after beating the Lightning, 4-1, Saturday night to win the round robin of the NHL's 24-team tournament. By Jordan Hall<\/p>","format":"filtered_html","safe_value":"<a href=\"http:\/\/scores.nbcsportsphiladelphia.com\/nhl\/boxscore.asp?gamecode=2020080920&home=20&vis=15\" target=\"_blank\">BOX SCORE<\/a><\/p>\nHeading into the first round of the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs, everyone is looking up at the Flyers.<\/p>\nFor the first time since 2000, the Flyers will be the Eastern Conference's No. 1 seed in the postseason after winning the round robin of the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament.<\/p>\nThey punctuated their climb Saturday night with a 4-1 win over the Lightning at Scotiabank Arena in the Eastern Conference's hub city Toronto.<\/p>\nNicolas Aube-Kubel had a big game with two goals, while Joel Farabee and Tyler Pitlick tallied markers, as well.<\/p>\nAfter going 3-0-0 through the round robin, the top-seeded Flyers will face the 12th-seeded Canadiens in the first round of the playoffs.<\/p>\nBack in 2000, the year of the Flyers' five-overtime playoff classic with the Penguins, the team lost the Eastern Conference Final to the eventual champion Devils in seven games.<\/p>\nTwenty years later, it's the No. 1 seed again.<\/p>\n\"We're excited here,\" Farabee said postgame in a video interview. \"We're ready to go dancing.\"<\/p>\n\u2022 Just how impressive were the Flyers in the round robin? They swept the Bruins, Capitals and Lightning by a combined score of 11-3.<\/p>\nPretty darn good tune-up for the Flyers as the real deal begins next week. They've always been a confident team, particularly from January on, but this was a measuring-stick round-robin tourney and they turned heads.<\/p>\nThe Capitals and Bruins finish the round robin Sunday (noon ET).<\/p>\n1. Flyers<\/strong> \u2014 3-0-0, six points 2. Lightning<\/strong> \u2014 2-1-0, four points 3. Capitals<\/strong> \u2014 0-1-1, one point 4. Bruins<\/strong> \u2014 0-2-0, zero points<\/p>\n\u2022 NBC Sports analyst Keith Jones mentioned at intermission how the Flyers come at their opponents in waves. Their depth was excellent through the round robin and will be arguably their biggest difference-maker in a playoff run.<\/p>\nIn the round robin, Claude Giroux went scoreless, James van Riemsdyk went scoreless in two games, Jakub Voracek had an assist in two games, Sean Couturier had a few assists, Travis Konecny (two assists) didn't have to score a goal, Kevin Hayes (four assists) didn't have to score a goal, and the Flyers convincingly earned the No. 1 seed.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Flyers' goal-scorers in round robin: Laughton \u2014 3 Aube-Kubel \u2014 2 Thompson \u2014 1 Pitlick \u2014 1 Farabee \u2014\u00a01 Myers \u2014 1 Sanheim \u2014 1 Raffl \u2014\u00a01 Only one had double-digit goals in the regular season (Laughton) and none were in the Flyers' top five. Impressive, impressive depth.<\/p>— Jordan Hall (@JHallNBCS) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1292319384468422657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 9, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n <blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Claude Giroux's 14:05 ice time was his fewest minutes played in a game since 2017-18 season. Flyers beat Lightning by 3 goals. The more Flyers can spread minutes, the more effort they can exude on each shift \u2014 hard-on-attack, north-south, forechecking style to wear teams down.<\/p>— Jordan Hall (@JHallNBCS) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1292470200185626625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 9, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 Carter Hart, who turns 22 years old next Thursday, looks primed for the first round.<\/p>\nThe Bruins had an NHL-most 100 points during the regular season. The Lightning scored an NHL-best 3.47 goals per game. Hart totaled 57 saves on 59 shots in matchups with those clubs.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">We can\u2019t say this is true, but we can\u2019t say this is not not true. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/AUExbaKvPS\">pic.twitter.com\/AUExbaKvPS<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1292300577523863553?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 9, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 In 2018-19, Aube-Kubel got his first taste of the NHL ... hardly. Called up from AHL affiliate Lehigh Valley, Aube-Kubel went scoreless in a nine-game stint with the big club, playing only 5:35 minutes per night.<\/p>\n\u201cIt\u2019s pretty hard, especially when you spend some 15 minutes without playing, 10 minutes without playing, so it\u2019s really hard for the legs,\" Aube-Kubel said in February about the limited minutes last season. \"When you\u2019re out there, you\u2019re just so stressed about not making a mistake that you don\u2019t really show anything.<\/p>\n\u201cLast year, I didn\u2019t really get a good chance to show what I could do. I\u2019m glad this year \u2026 even in my first game, I got put in a good situation with good players and it worked out for me.\u201d<\/p>\nIn 2019-20, the Flyers eventually summoned Aube-Kubel in mid-December. The new coaching staff has done a solid job of giving him opportunity but also constantly keeping him motivated. It's resulted in a hungry, hard-working, forechecking winger who gave the Flyers a monstrous boost against the Lightning with the club's first two goals.<\/p>\nIn a game against the loaded Lightning, the 24-year-old Aube-Kubel was one of the best players on the ice. During training camp last month, he mentioned how his style of play suits the playoffs. It sure looked like it Saturday. The Flyers would love that type of effort and jolt throughout the playoffs.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">PHILLY STRIKING FIRST. Ghost with the pass, NAK with the redirect! <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/RtirN3J3PB\">pic.twitter.com\/RtirN3J3PB<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1292259258294308866?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 9, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n <blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">NUMBER TWO FOR 62! NAK, AGAIN! Flyers lead, 2-0. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/eYwrFv3bEG\">pic.twitter.com\/eYwrFv3bEG<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1292261177179934720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 9, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 It appears the Flyers avoided what would have been a costly injury right before the first round.<\/p>\nTravis Sanheim left the game 22 seconds into the second period after taking a hit from Blake Coleman. It looked Sanheim was nursing his wrist or arm after the check as he went up the tunnel.<\/p>\nFortunately for the Flyers, Sanheim returned later in the period.<\/p>\n\u2022 An injury scare like that creates a reminder of the Flyers' young, promising stable of blueliners. Playing his first round-robin game, Shayne Gostisbehere reminded everyone of his game.<\/p>\nIf Gostisbehere is the Flyers' seventh defenseman, he did everything to potentially shake that status moving forward. Gostisbehere, who has had to undergo arthroscopic surgeries on both of his knees in 2020, had a good camp and said he has felt \"10 times better\" compared to during the regular season.<\/p>\nAgainst Tampa Bay, he looked like his mobile, confident, making-things-happen self from the blue line, recording two assists and a plus-2 rating. Gostisbehere made a sharp play to help create Aube-Kubel's first goal and showed his vision to assist Farabee's goal, which was a big one as it extended the Flyers' lead to 3-1 in the middle frame.<\/p>\n\"That was a hard pass from Ghost, it takes a special skill set to be able to one-time that,\" Flyers head coach Alain Vigneault said postgame in a video interview. \"Great play by Ghost but also great shot by Joel.\"<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">BIG MOVES FROM YOUNG BEEZER. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/Ee7wOWMZbi\">pic.twitter.com\/Ee7wOWMZbi<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1292275800281055233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 9, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\nThe 27-year-old offensive-minded defenseman displayed good instincts defensively, as well.<\/p>\nA performance like that will have Vigneault thinking, that's for sure. The sixth and final spot on defense will come down to Robert Hagg and Gostisbehere. Hagg likely has the slight edge for now, but Gostisbehere has drawn much closer and should be called upon if the Flyers don't have a positive start to the first round.<\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-out-james-van-riemsdyk-back-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs-round-robin-lightning\" target=\"_blank\">With Voracek out (undisclosed issue)<\/a>, Farabee jumped to the first line. Given he opened the tournament fighting for a spot in the lineup and likely the bottom six, this was a golden opportunity for the 20-year-old rookie winger.<\/p>\nHe took advantage of it pretty well, scoring a goal and tallying an assist. His game allows him to scale the lineup but he truly stands out when he's with talented players. Good stuff from him and he's pushing for a bigger role, especially depending on the statuses of Voracek and Michael Raffl (undisclosed injury), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">who missed the final two games of the round robin<\/a>.<\/p>\n\"You look at our lineup, we have such great depth,\" Farabee said postgame in a video interview. \"Ghosty and I are sliding in, we've got guys sliding out, coming back in, it just goes to show how good of a team we are and how deep we are.\"<\/p>\n\u2022 The power play never really got going during the round robin as the Flyers finished 0 for 11 through the three games. That will have to be better over a course of a best-of-seven series.<\/p>\n\u2022 The Flyers caught some breaks throughout the round robin, but give them credit for taking advantage of those breaks.<\/p>\nThey didn't face Vezina Trophy finalist Tuukka Rask in the 4-1 win over the Bruins. They didn't see James Norris Memorial Trophy finalist John Carlson in the 3-1 win over the Capitals.<\/p>\nAgainst the Lightning, they avoided Steven Stamkos (lower-body injury), who had 66 points in 57 games during the regular season. In the first period, Tampa Bay also lost stud defenseman Victor Hedman (undisclosed injury), who is also a finalist for the Norris Trophy.<\/p>\nThese games weren't necessarily close, though, either \u2014 the Flyers did damage against three of the best clubs in the NHL.<\/p>\n\u2022 As the No. 1 seed in the first round, the Flyers face the 12th-seeded Canadiens, who upset the fifth-seeded Penguins in the best-of-five qualifying round, taking the series 3-1.<\/p>\nThe Flyers went 2-1-0 against Montreal in the regular season, with a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-keep-late-fun-coming-thanks-overtime-win-canadiens-company-2011-12-team\" target=\"_blank\">3-2 overtime win Nov. 7<\/a>, a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-cap-special-november-enter-december-most-points-eric-lindros-led-1995-96-team\" target=\"_blank\">4-3 overtime victory Nov. 30<\/a> and a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-upended-canadiens-type-of-loss-always-seems-anger-fans\" target=\"_blank\">4-1 loss Jan. 16<\/a>.<\/p>\nThe first round of the playoffs is scheduled to begin next Tuesday. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-schedule-2020-nhl-playoffs-dates-game-times-broadcast-information\" target=\"_blank\">The Flyers' schedule<\/a> is to be determined.<\/p>\nSports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \nSubscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/c143960b-2aaf-420e-a2b2-cc53dce8aba7\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \n<a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\">More Flyers analysis for 24-team tournament<\/strong><\/h3>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-out-james-van-riemsdyk-back-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs-round-robin-lightning\" target=\"_blank\">Voracek out, JVR back after interesting scratch and more Flyers changes<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dont-expect-flyers-be-mingling-rivals-hotel-x-toronto-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Don't expect the Flyers to be mingling with their rivals at Hotel X Toronto<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Costly injury comes at interesting time, creates more decisions for Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-team-hot-streak-round-robin\" target=\"_blank\">The Flyers were never on a hot streak \u2014 they're just that good<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-stanley-cup-predictions\" target=\"_blank\">Can the Flyers go all the way? Our Stanley Cup predictions are here<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/picture-collage-and-signs-show-love-flyers-they-eye-stanley-cup-run-toronto\" target=\"_blank\">Picture collage and signs show love for Flyers as they eye Cup run in Toronto<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/sean-couturier-nhl-playoffs-bubble-stanley-cup-item-baby-book\" target=\"_blank\">Couturier's goals in NHL bubble: Stanley Cup and an important baby book item<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-blue-jackets-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_blank\">Could Flyers still share the wealth against Blue Jackets in 1st round?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-shirts\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers announce playoff roster, have fans going crazy over shirts<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-stanley-cup-odds-flyers-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">All types of Flyers odds (including the Cup) in NHL's 24-team tourney<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dave-scott-couldnt-be-happier-flyers-chuck-fletcher-theres-more-action-be-done\" target=\"_blank\">Scott 'couldn't be happier' with Flyers, but there's more action to be done<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-flyers-contract-signed-extension\" target=\"_blank\">Lindblom has new contract, his comeback is on with Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-canadiens-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_self\">Flyers-Canadiens is perfect on paper, but would it be a trap?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-explains-absence-flyers-training-camp-scrimmage\" target=\"_blank\">What happened? Voracek says calm down, he's fine ... now you know<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-shirts-sale-fans\" target=\"_blank\">Fans can purchase Flyers playoff shirts with new slogan<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-training-camp-day-1-different-times\" target=\"_blank\">What it was like to go back to work at Flyers practice in different times<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-odds-24-team-tournament-season\" target=\"_blank\">5 questions on Flyers' chances in 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/predictions-flyers-lineup-nhl-24-team-stanley-cup-playoffs-plan-return-coronavirus-suspension\" target=\"_blank\">Predictions for Flyers' best Game 1 lineup to start 24-team playoff<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-top-5-reinforcements\" target=\"_blank\">Who are the Flyers' top 5 reinforcements for 24-team tournament?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/brian-elliott-has-sweet-new-goalie-mask-flyers-nhl-playoffs-run\" target=\"_blank\">Elliott has sweet new mask for Flyers' playoff run<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-sign-mark-friedman-2-year-contract-extension\" target=\"_self\">Flyers sign a player to extension at position of strength<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-nhl-nhlpa-ratify-return-to-play-cba-schedule\" target=\"_blank\">What to know as NHL, NHLPA finish big step, announce schedule<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-free-agency-justin-braun-derek-grant-flyers\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers have two top 50 pending UFAs; will they re-sign them?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-2020-format-details-plan-stanley-cup-24-team-tournament\" target=\"_blank\">Everything Flyers fans need to know for NHL's 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/gary-bettman-flyers-mascot-gritty-cant-be-toronto-bubble-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Bettman gives Gritty the hard truth for why he can't be in Toronto bubble<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-key-dates-coronavirus-testing-protocols-return-to-play\" target=\"_blank\">Key dates, protocols announced as Flyers return<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n","safe_summary":"For the first time since 2000, the Flyers will be the Eastern Conference's No. 1 seed in the postseason after beating the Lightning, 4-1, Saturday night to win the round robin of the NHL's 24-team tournament. By Jordan Hall<\/p>\n"}]},"field_author_reference":{"und":[{"tid":"1056"}]},"field_bean_single_col":{"und":[{"target_id":"3706"}]},"field_chrome_page":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_date_published":{"und":[{"value":"2020-08-09 03:00:00","timezone":"America\/New_York","timezone_db":"UTC","date_type":"datetime"}]},"field_hero_image_credit":{"und":[{"value":"USA Today Images\/John E. Sokolowski","format":null,"safe_value":"USA Today Images\/John E. 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sweep it is \u2014\u00a0Flyers run through round robin, earn East's No. 1 seed","format":null,"safe_value":"How sweep it is \u2014\u00a0Flyers run through round robin, earn East's No. 1 seed"}]},"field_sponsor":[],"field_sport":{"und":[{"tid":"191"}]},"field_tags":{"und":[{"tid":"34061"},{"tid":"2456"},{"tid":"34056"},{"tid":"33456"},{"tid":"2576"},{"tid":"466"},{"tid":"506"}]},"field_team":{"und":[{"tid":"141"}]},"field_top_story":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_video_autoplay":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_videos":{"und":[{"target_id":"819566"}]},"field_tags_hide":[],"field_video_automute":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_editorial_category":{"und":[{"value":"analysis"}]},"field_allow_lld_domains":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_enable_stanza":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_exclude_from_yahoo":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"robots":{"value":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","noindex":0,"nofollow":0,"noarchive":0,"nosnippet":0,"noodp":0,"noydir":0,"noimageindex":0,"notranslate":0}},"news_keywords":{"value":"NHL round robin, NHL playoffs, Philadelphia Flyers, Tampa Bay Lightning, Jordan Hall, 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs"}}},"path":{"pathauto":"0"},"name":"JHall","picture":"0","data":"b:0;"},"access":true},{"target_id":"818971","entity":{"vid":"868046","uid":"156","title":"Flyers are making believers in round robin, pick up huge win over Capitals for East seeding","log":"","status":"1","comment":"0","promote":"0","sticky":"0","nid":"818971","type":"article","language":"und","created":"1596744721","changed":"1596844122","tnid":"0","translate":"0","published":"1596755400","revision_timestamp":"1596844122","revision_uid":"156","body":{"und":[{"value":"<a href=\"http:\/\/scores.nbcsportsphiladelphia.com\/nhl\/boxscore.asp?gamecode=2020080615&home=15&vis=23\" target=\"_blank\">BOX SCORE<\/a><\/p>The round robin looked good for the Flyers the moment the details were announced about the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament.<\/p>It looks really good right now.<\/p>The Flyers have pounced on their shot to rise in the Eastern Conference before the real deal begins during the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. On Thursday night, they beat the Capitals, 3-1, in their second round-robin game at Scotiabank Arena in the Eastern Conference's hub city Toronto.<\/p>Scott Laughton scored a pair of goals and Travis Sanheim registered the other as the Flyers notched another eye-opening victory.<\/p>How's the excitement level in the Delaware Valley?<\/p>Let's get into observations on the round-robin picture and the game:<\/p>\u2022 Given the Flyers could not slide any lower than their current No. 4 seed and had the chance to climb atop the Eastern Conference bracket entering the first round, their outlook appeared very attractive for the round robin, unlike like for the top-seeded Bruins, who could only fall (and they have).<\/p>So far, the Flyers have completely taken advantage of the juicy opportunity.<\/p>With the regulation win over the Capitals, they secured at least the Eastern Conference's No. 2 seed in the first round of the playoffs. The Flyers have set up a round-robin championship with the Lightning on Saturday. The winner of the game takes the No. 1 seed, the loser settles for the No. 2 seed.<\/p>Here are the current standings entering the round-robin finales:<\/p>1. Lightning<\/strong> \u2014 2-0-0, four points 1. Flyers<\/strong> \u2014 2-0-0, four points 3. Capitals<\/strong> \u2014 0-1-1, one point 4. Bruins<\/strong> \u2014 0-2-0, zero points<\/p>Update: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-standings-round-robin-series-updates-flyers-lightning\" target=\"_blank\">What Flyers fans need to know for round-robin finale, 1st-round matchups<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 Is there any argument to the Flyers' status as a legitimate Stanley Cup contender in this tournament?<\/p>They were proving themselves down the stretch of the regular season and they have to be making believers out of others right now.<\/p>Including the regular season and this round robin, the Flyers have gone 7-1-1 in nine combined matchups with the Capitals and Bruins.<\/p>Tough to argue that.<\/p>\u2022 Laughton, Kevin Hayes and Travis Konecny were put back together later in training camp and good thing the coaching staff made that call.<\/p>The line has been terrific, by far the club's best group of forwards so far in Toronto.<\/p>Hayes was impressive in camp with his puck-protection ability, patience and ability to slow the game down. He has completely carried that over into the tournament.<\/p>Laughton now has four goals in Toronto (three in the round robin, one in the exhibition game). Konecny had a beautiful assist on the first to give the Flyers a 1-0 lead in the opening stanza. Hayes set up Laughton's second marker, which ballooned the Flyers' lead to 3-0 in the third.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1291474401444204548?s=20<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1291498817494360064?s=20<\/p>Hayes, who also set up Sanheim's 2-0 goal, has four assists and a plus-4 mark in two round-robin games. Konecny finished the game with two helpers, as well.<\/p>The line is rolling into the showdown with the Lightning.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1291487602957262849?s=20<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1291507880970129409?s=20<\/p>\u2022 Because of that second line, the top line of Claude Giroux, Sean Couturier and Jakub Voracek has not had to do as much, which is a positive. The Flyers will want more offensive production from this group, no doubt about it, but the fact that this trio has combined for one assist over the first two games and the Flyers have outscored the Bruins and Capitals 7-2 is a great sign.<\/p>\u2022 The Flyers held Alex Ovechkin scoreless. The Capitals' superstar has not recorded a point in five matchups with the Flyers this season.<\/p>In Ovechkin's 15-year career, this was the first time the Flyers had ever held him to without a point in one regular season.<\/p>\"You've got to know when he's on the ice,\" Hayes said postgame in a video interview. \"I think that's a major key for our team, it's on the board every time: Know when 8's on the ice.\"<\/p>\u2022 Backup Brian Elliott was steady for the Flyers, needing to make only 16 saves on 17 shots. The goalie situation has played out well for the Flyers. Carter Hart is primed for the pipes Saturday.<\/p>The Flyers beat Braden Holtby for the fourth time this season.<\/p>\u2022 The decision to scratch James van Riemsdyk was difficult to comprehend.<\/p>No big deal, though, for now.<\/p>Alain Vigneault <a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-vs-capitals-round-robin-2020-nhl-playoffs-analysis\" target=\"_blank\">wants more from his goal-scoring winger<\/a>, but coming into Thursday, the Flyers had played only one exhibition game and one round-robin contest. Not a ton of reps or a huge sample size. Demoting him to the fourth line would have been a strong message sent and then van Riemsdyk could have had the opportunity to climb if he proved worthy of it in limited minutes.<\/p>We've known the Flyers would try different looks and play some reinforcements for evaluation. Vigneault hasn't given us many reasons to doubt his decisions as he has very often pushed the right buttons throughout Year 1 in Philly. Thursday, though, the Flyers were presented with a golden chance to grab at least the No. 2 seed in the first round of the postseason. It wasn't an ideal time to sit a two-time 30-goal scorer who helps on the power play in favor of 22-year-old Connor Bunnaman, who will likely be a deeper extra during playoff series.<\/p>Credit to Vigneault, the Flyers still recorded the important win, so there was no harm done. The van Riemsdyk storyline will be worth monitoring moving forward. His spot in the lineup doesn't sound in jeopardy but where he plays will be interesting to watch.<\/p>\u2022 For Vigneault, the decisions ahead are good ones to have but they don't get any easier. The head coach said he was looking to get either Shayne Gostisbehere or Mark Friedman in the lineup for the team's round-robin finale. Both blueliners played in the exhibition game and are going to be the Flyers' seventh and eighth defensemen, respectively, to open the first round.<\/p>\"I've already gotten Ghost and Mark in,\" Vigneault said Wednesday in a video interview. \"There's a good chance that we're maybe going to use that last game to get someone else in; probably in, Ghost or Mark.\"<\/p>Let's see if Vigneault still does that despite the opportunity for the Flyers and how well the defensive pairs have played.<\/p>Then again, the Flyers' power play is 0 for 8 through the round robin. Perhaps Vigneault gives Gostisbehere a look to give the offensive-minded defenseman a chance to boost the second-unit man advantage. His elusiveness up at the point could be a way to provide a spark.<\/p>Here was Vigneault after the game on the upcoming defensive decisions:<\/p><blockquote>I liked the way our group looked tonight, but we\u2019ve got one more round-robin game. Definitely going to talk with my coaching staff and [general manager Chuck Fletcher] and [assistant general manager Brent Flahr] to get their input on the matter. It\u2019s about preparing the team, it\u2019s also about winning obviously. But there\u2019s that fine line, we haven\u2019t played for a long time. If you do expect your team to have a long playoff push, obviously things have to fall into place, etc., but you do need some depth.<\/p>Tonight, I was very happy with getting Joel in and Bunny in, I thought both those young men played well.<\/p>So we\u2019ll see here what we decide. We\u2019ve got 48 hours before I need to make that call for the benefit of the team.<\/p><\/blockquote>\u2022 The Flyers caught a break with the absence of Capitals blueliner John Carlson (undisclosed injury), who missed his second straight round-robin game.<\/p>The James Norris Memorial Trophy finalist led all NHL defensemen in points during the regular season with 75.<\/p>\u2022 The Flyers wrap up their three-game round-robin slate Saturday when they play the second-seeded Lightning (start time TBD).<\/p>The Capitals and Bruins finish the round robin Sunday (start time TBD). The first round of the playoffs is scheduled to begin next Tuesday.<\/p>Sports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p>Subscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/27da96d3-1120-4c60-904d-e285562e8c55\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p><a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p><h3 dir=\"ltr\">More Flyers analysis for 24-team tournament<\/strong><\/h3>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dont-expect-flyers-be-mingling-rivals-hotel-x-toronto-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Don't expect the Flyers to be mingling with their rivals at Hotel X Toronto<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Costly injury comes at interesting time, creates more decisions for Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p><section id=\"carousel-wrapper\">\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-team-hot-streak-round-robin\" target=\"_blank\">The Flyers were never on a hot streak \u2014 they're just that good<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-24-team-tournament-round-robin-beat-nhl-best-bruins-stanley-cup-playoffs\" target=\"_self\">Feel good to be back? Despite possible injury, Flyers open tourney with a bang<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-round-robin-lineup-schedule-live-stream\" target=\"_blank\">From lineups to big picture, everything Flyers fans need to know for round robin<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-stanley-cup-predictions\" target=\"_blank\">Can the Flyers go all the way? Our Stanley Cup predictions are here<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-panthers-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_blank\">Potential heavyweight coaching matchup for Flyers in 1st round<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-celebrate-return-hockey-ot-win-and-positives-exhibition-vs-penguins\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers celebrate return of hockey with OT drama and positives in exhibition<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-penguins-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_blank\">So, about those Penguins ... 1st-round matchup for Flyers?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/picture-collage-and-signs-show-love-flyers-they-eye-stanley-cup-run-toronto\" target=\"_blank\">Picture collage and signs show love for Flyers as they eye Cup run in Toronto<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/sean-couturier-nhl-playoffs-bubble-stanley-cup-item-baby-book\" target=\"_blank\">Couturier's goals in NHL bubble: Stanley Cup and an important baby book item<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-blue-jackets-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_blank\">Could Flyers still share the wealth against Blue Jackets in 1st round?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-islanders-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_blank\">Would Islanders be Flyers' kryptonite if they meet in 1st round?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-shirts\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers announce playoff roster, have fans going crazy over shirts<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-stanley-cup-odds-flyers-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">All types of Flyers odds (including the Cup) as NHL's 24-team tourney begins<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dave-scott-couldnt-be-happier-flyers-chuck-fletcher-theres-more-action-be-done\" target=\"_blank\">Scott 'couldn't be happier' with Flyers, but there's more action to be done<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-hurricanes-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_blank\">Trust the captain, he'll know what to do if the Flyers face the Hurricanes<\/a><\/strong><\/p><\/section>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-training-camp-observations-carter-hart-injury-status-sean-couturier-baby-roster-talk\" target=\"_blank\">Analyzing Hart's situation, another Flyer becomes a dad, more<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-flyers-contract-signed-extension\" target=\"_blank\">Lindblom has new contract, his comeback is on with Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-canadiens-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_self\">Flyers-Canadiens is perfect on paper, but would it be a trap?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-schedule-round-robin-change-flyers-lightning-bruins-capitals\" target=\"_blank\">What round-robin schedule change could mean for Flyers' strategy<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-explains-absence-flyers-training-camp-scrimmage\" target=\"_blank\">What happened? Voracek says calm down, he's fine ... now you know<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-training-camp-observations-jakub-voracek-scrimmage-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Key Flyer missing, buzzing rookie, don't forget Ghost and more<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-training-camp-observations-lineup-travis-konecny-celebration-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">The Flyers' lineup, practicing celebrations, no hiding these two and more<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <\/b><\/font><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-training-camp-carter-hart-claude-giroux-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_self\">A 'dangerous card' in the Flyers' hand, Giroux still wows and more<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <\/b><\/font><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-shirts-sale-fans\" target=\"_blank\">Fans can purchase Flyers playoff shirts with new slogan<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-training-camp-day-1-different-times\" target=\"_blank\">What it was like to go back to work at Flyers practice in different times<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-schedule-qualifying-round-round-robin-return-to-play-stanley-cup-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Analyzing the Flyers' schedule to open 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-odds-24-team-tournament-season\" target=\"_blank\">5 questions on Flyers' chances in 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/predictions-flyers-lineup-nhl-24-team-stanley-cup-playoffs-plan-return-coronavirus-suspension\" target=\"_blank\">Predictions for Flyers' best Game 1 lineup to start 24-team playoff<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-top-5-reinforcements\" target=\"_blank\">Who are the Flyers' top 5 reinforcements for 24-team tournament?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/brian-elliott-has-sweet-new-goalie-mask-flyers-nhl-playoffs-run\" target=\"_blank\">Elliott has sweet new mask for Flyers' playoff run<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-sign-mark-friedman-2-year-contract-extension\" target=\"_self\">Flyers sign a player to extension at position of strength<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-nhl-nhlpa-ratify-return-to-play-cba-schedule\" target=\"_blank\">What to know as NHL, NHLPA finish big step, announce schedule<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-chances-24-team-format-bracket\" target=\"_blank\">Things get even better for Flyers in NHL's 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-free-agency-justin-braun-derek-grant-flyers\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers have two top 50 pending UFAs; will they re-sign them?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-2020-format-details-plan-stanley-cup-24-team-tournament\" target=\"_blank\">Everything Flyers fans need to know for NHL's 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/gary-bettman-flyers-mascot-gritty-cant-be-toronto-bubble-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Bettman gives Gritty the hard truth for why he can't be in Toronto bubble<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-key-dates-coronavirus-testing-protocols-return-to-play\" target=\"_blank\">Key dates, protocols announced as Flyers set to return<\/a><\/strong><\/p>","summary":"Starting to really believe? The Flyers continued turning heads Thursday night with a 3-1 win over the Capitals for a huge seeding win in the round robin of the NHL's 24-team tournament. By Jordan Hall<\/p>","format":"filtered_html","safe_value":"<a href=\"http:\/\/scores.nbcsportsphiladelphia.com\/nhl\/boxscore.asp?gamecode=2020080615&home=15&vis=23\" target=\"_blank\">BOX SCORE<\/a><\/p>\nThe round robin looked good for the Flyers the moment the details were announced about the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament.<\/p>\nIt looks really good right now.<\/p>\nThe Flyers have pounced on their shot to rise in the Eastern Conference before the real deal begins during the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. On Thursday night, they beat the Capitals, 3-1, in their second round-robin game at Scotiabank Arena in the Eastern Conference's hub city Toronto.<\/p>\nScott Laughton scored a pair of goals and Travis Sanheim registered the other as the Flyers notched another eye-opening victory.<\/p>\nHow's the excitement level in the Delaware Valley?<\/p>\nLet's get into observations on the round-robin picture and the game:<\/p>\n\u2022 Given the Flyers could not slide any lower than their current No. 4 seed and had the chance to climb atop the Eastern Conference bracket entering the first round, their outlook appeared very attractive for the round robin, unlike like for the top-seeded Bruins, who could only fall (and they have).<\/p>\nSo far, the Flyers have completely taken advantage of the juicy opportunity.<\/p>\nWith the regulation win over the Capitals, they secured at least the Eastern Conference's No. 2 seed in the first round of the playoffs. The Flyers have set up a round-robin championship with the Lightning on Saturday. The winner of the game takes the No. 1 seed, the loser settles for the No. 2 seed.<\/p>\nHere are the current standings entering the round-robin finales:<\/p>\n1. Lightning<\/strong> \u2014 2-0-0, four points 1. Flyers<\/strong> \u2014 2-0-0, four points 3. Capitals<\/strong> \u2014 0-1-1, one point 4. Bruins<\/strong> \u2014 0-2-0, zero points<\/p>\nUpdate: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-standings-round-robin-series-updates-flyers-lightning\" target=\"_blank\">What Flyers fans need to know for round-robin finale, 1st-round matchups<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 Is there any argument to the Flyers' status as a legitimate Stanley Cup contender in this tournament?<\/p>\nThey were proving themselves down the stretch of the regular season and they have to be making believers out of others right now.<\/p>\nIncluding the regular season and this round robin, the Flyers have gone 7-1-1 in nine combined matchups with the Capitals and Bruins.<\/p>\nTough to argue that.<\/p>\n\u2022 Laughton, Kevin Hayes and Travis Konecny were put back together later in training camp and good thing the coaching staff made that call.<\/p>\nThe line has been terrific, by far the club's best group of forwards so far in Toronto.<\/p>\nHayes was impressive in camp with his puck-protection ability, patience and ability to slow the game down. He has completely carried that over into the tournament.<\/p>\nLaughton now has four goals in Toronto (three in the round robin, one in the exhibition game). Konecny had a beautiful assist on the first to give the Flyers a 1-0 lead in the opening stanza. Hayes set up Laughton's second marker, which ballooned the Flyers' lead to 3-0 in the third.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">We like this...we like this a whole laught. Laughton picks up his third goal since arriving in the NHL bubble to give the Flyers the lead. | <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/HerrsSnacks?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@HerrsSnacks<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/wATakYzxhD\">pic.twitter.com\/wATakYzxhD<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1291474401444204548?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 6, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n <blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Things you just absolutely love to see: it. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/epa4RWQkoO\">pic.twitter.com\/epa4RWQkoO<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1291498817494360064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 6, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\nHayes, who also set up Sanheim's 2-0 goal, has four assists and a plus-4 mark in two round-robin games. Konecny finished the game with two helpers, as well.<\/p>\nThe line is rolling into the showdown with the Lightning.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">SAVE THIS FOR THE HIGHLIGHT REEL. Hayes puts on a clinic for the find and Sanheim sends it to the net for this beauty of a goal. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/iiQASP2t9d\">pic.twitter.com\/iiQASP2t9d<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1291487602957262849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 6, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n <blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Jerry: He's a bubble boy. George: A bubble boy? Jerry: Yes, a bubble boy. Susan: What's a bubble boy? Jerry: He lives in a bubble. George: Boy. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/ndslYr3UaH\">pic.twitter.com\/ndslYr3UaH<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1291507880970129409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 6, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 Because of that second line, the top line of Claude Giroux, Sean Couturier and Jakub Voracek has not had to do as much, which is a positive. The Flyers will want more offensive production from this group, no doubt about it, but the fact that this trio has combined for one assist over the first two games and the Flyers have outscored the Bruins and Capitals 7-2 is a great sign.<\/p>\n\u2022 The Flyers held Alex Ovechkin scoreless. The Capitals' superstar has not recorded a point in five matchups with the Flyers this season.<\/p>\nIn Ovechkin's 15-year career, this was the first time the Flyers had ever held him to without a point in one regular season.<\/p>\n\"You've got to know when he's on the ice,\" Hayes said postgame in a video interview. \"I think that's a major key for our team, it's on the board every time: Know when 8's on the ice.\"<\/p>\n\u2022 Backup Brian Elliott was steady for the Flyers, needing to make only 16 saves on 17 shots. The goalie situation has played out well for the Flyers. Carter Hart is primed for the pipes Saturday.<\/p>\nThe Flyers beat Braden Holtby for the fourth time this season.<\/p>\n\u2022 The decision to scratch James van Riemsdyk was difficult to comprehend.<\/p>\nNo big deal, though, for now.<\/p>\nAlain Vigneault <a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-vs-capitals-round-robin-2020-nhl-playoffs-analysis\" target=\"_blank\">wants more from his goal-scoring winger<\/a>, but coming into Thursday, the Flyers had played only one exhibition game and one round-robin contest. Not a ton of reps or a huge sample size. Demoting him to the fourth line would have been a strong message sent and then van Riemsdyk could have had the opportunity to climb if he proved worthy of it in limited minutes.<\/p>\nWe've known the Flyers would try different looks and play some reinforcements for evaluation. Vigneault hasn't given us many reasons to doubt his decisions as he has very often pushed the right buttons throughout Year 1 in Philly. Thursday, though, the Flyers were presented with a golden chance to grab at least the No. 2 seed in the first round of the postseason. It wasn't an ideal time to sit a two-time 30-goal scorer who helps on the power play in favor of 22-year-old Connor Bunnaman, who will likely be a deeper extra during playoff series.<\/p>\nCredit to Vigneault, the Flyers still recorded the important win, so there was no harm done. The van Riemsdyk storyline will be worth monitoring moving forward. His spot in the lineup doesn't sound in jeopardy but where he plays will be interesting to watch.<\/p>\n\u2022 For Vigneault, the decisions ahead are good ones to have but they don't get any easier. The head coach said he was looking to get either Shayne Gostisbehere or Mark Friedman in the lineup for the team's round-robin finale. Both blueliners played in the exhibition game and are going to be the Flyers' seventh and eighth defensemen, respectively, to open the first round.<\/p>\n\"I've already gotten Ghost and Mark in,\" Vigneault said Wednesday in a video interview. \"There's a good chance that we're maybe going to use that last game to get someone else in; probably in, Ghost or Mark.\"<\/p>\nLet's see if Vigneault still does that despite the opportunity for the Flyers and how well the defensive pairs have played.<\/p>\nThen again, the Flyers' power play is 0 for 8 through the round robin. Perhaps Vigneault gives Gostisbehere a look to give the offensive-minded defenseman a chance to boost the second-unit man advantage. His elusiveness up at the point could be a way to provide a spark.<\/p>\nHere was Vigneault after the game on the upcoming defensive decisions:<\/p>\n<blockquote>I liked the way our group looked tonight, but we\u2019ve got one more round-robin game. Definitely going to talk with my coaching staff and [general manager Chuck Fletcher] and [assistant general manager Brent Flahr] to get their input on the matter. It\u2019s about preparing the team, it\u2019s also about winning obviously. But there\u2019s that fine line, we haven\u2019t played for a long time. If you do expect your team to have a long playoff push, obviously things have to fall into place, etc., but you do need some depth.<\/p>\nTonight, I was very happy with getting Joel in and Bunny in, I thought both those young men played well.<\/p>\nSo we\u2019ll see here what we decide. We\u2019ve got 48 hours before I need to make that call for the benefit of the team.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\u2022 The Flyers caught a break with the absence of Capitals blueliner John Carlson (undisclosed injury), who missed his second straight round-robin game.<\/p>\nThe James Norris Memorial Trophy finalist led all NHL defensemen in points during the regular season with 75.<\/p>\n\u2022 The Flyers wrap up their three-game round-robin slate Saturday when they play the second-seeded Lightning (start time TBD).<\/p>\nThe Capitals and Bruins finish the round robin Sunday (start time TBD). The first round of the playoffs is scheduled to begin next Tuesday.<\/p>\nSports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \nSubscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/27da96d3-1120-4c60-904d-e285562e8c55\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \n<a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\">More Flyers analysis for 24-team tournament<\/strong><\/h3>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dont-expect-flyers-be-mingling-rivals-hotel-x-toronto-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Don't expect the Flyers to be mingling with their rivals at Hotel X Toronto<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Costly injury comes at interesting time, creates more decisions for Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-team-hot-streak-round-robin\" target=\"_blank\">The Flyers were never on a hot streak \u2014 they're just that good<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-24-team-tournament-round-robin-beat-nhl-best-bruins-stanley-cup-playoffs\" target=\"_self\">Feel good to be back? Despite possible injury, Flyers open tourney with a bang<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-round-robin-lineup-schedule-live-stream\" target=\"_blank\">From lineups to big picture, everything Flyers fans need to know for round robin<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-stanley-cup-predictions\" target=\"_blank\">Can the Flyers go all the way? Our Stanley Cup predictions are here<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-panthers-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_blank\">Potential heavyweight coaching matchup for Flyers in 1st round<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-celebrate-return-hockey-ot-win-and-positives-exhibition-vs-penguins\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers celebrate return of hockey with OT drama and positives in exhibition<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-penguins-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_blank\">So, about those Penguins ... 1st-round matchup for Flyers?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/picture-collage-and-signs-show-love-flyers-they-eye-stanley-cup-run-toronto\" target=\"_blank\">Picture collage and signs show love for Flyers as they eye Cup run in Toronto<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/sean-couturier-nhl-playoffs-bubble-stanley-cup-item-baby-book\" target=\"_blank\">Couturier's goals in NHL bubble: Stanley Cup and an important baby book item<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-blue-jackets-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_blank\">Could Flyers still share the wealth against Blue Jackets in 1st round?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-islanders-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_blank\">Would Islanders be Flyers' kryptonite if they meet in 1st round?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-shirts\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers announce playoff roster, have fans going crazy over shirts<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-stanley-cup-odds-flyers-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">All types of Flyers odds (including the Cup) as NHL's 24-team tourney begins<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dave-scott-couldnt-be-happier-flyers-chuck-fletcher-theres-more-action-be-done\" target=\"_blank\">Scott 'couldn't be happier' with Flyers, but there's more action to be done<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-hurricanes-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_blank\">Trust the captain, he'll know what to do if the Flyers face the Hurricanes<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-training-camp-observations-carter-hart-injury-status-sean-couturier-baby-roster-talk\" target=\"_blank\">Analyzing Hart's situation, another Flyer becomes a dad, more<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-flyers-contract-signed-extension\" target=\"_blank\">Lindblom has new contract, his comeback is on with Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-canadiens-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_self\">Flyers-Canadiens is perfect on paper, but would it be a trap?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-schedule-round-robin-change-flyers-lightning-bruins-capitals\" target=\"_blank\">What round-robin schedule change could mean for Flyers' strategy<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-explains-absence-flyers-training-camp-scrimmage\" target=\"_blank\">What happened? Voracek says calm down, he's fine ... now you know<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-training-camp-observations-jakub-voracek-scrimmage-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Key Flyer missing, buzzing rookie, don't forget Ghost and more<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-training-camp-observations-lineup-travis-konecny-celebration-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">The Flyers' lineup, practicing celebrations, no hiding these two and more<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-training-camp-carter-hart-claude-giroux-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_self\">A 'dangerous card' in the Flyers' hand, Giroux still wows and more<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-shirts-sale-fans\" target=\"_blank\">Fans can purchase Flyers playoff shirts with new slogan<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-training-camp-day-1-different-times\" target=\"_blank\">What it was like to go back to work at Flyers practice in different times<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-schedule-qualifying-round-round-robin-return-to-play-stanley-cup-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Analyzing the Flyers' schedule to open 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-odds-24-team-tournament-season\" target=\"_blank\">5 questions on Flyers' chances in 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/predictions-flyers-lineup-nhl-24-team-stanley-cup-playoffs-plan-return-coronavirus-suspension\" target=\"_blank\">Predictions for Flyers' best Game 1 lineup to start 24-team playoff<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-top-5-reinforcements\" target=\"_blank\">Who are the Flyers' top 5 reinforcements for 24-team tournament?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/brian-elliott-has-sweet-new-goalie-mask-flyers-nhl-playoffs-run\" target=\"_blank\">Elliott has sweet new mask for Flyers' playoff run<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-sign-mark-friedman-2-year-contract-extension\" target=\"_self\">Flyers sign a player to extension at position of strength<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-nhl-nhlpa-ratify-return-to-play-cba-schedule\" target=\"_blank\">What to know as NHL, NHLPA finish big step, announce schedule<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-chances-24-team-format-bracket\" target=\"_blank\">Things get even better for Flyers in NHL's 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-free-agency-justin-braun-derek-grant-flyers\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers have two top 50 pending UFAs; will they re-sign them?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-2020-format-details-plan-stanley-cup-24-team-tournament\" target=\"_blank\">Everything Flyers fans need to know for NHL's 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/gary-bettman-flyers-mascot-gritty-cant-be-toronto-bubble-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Bettman gives Gritty the hard truth for why he can't be in Toronto bubble<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-key-dates-coronavirus-testing-protocols-return-to-play\" target=\"_blank\">Key dates, protocols announced as Flyers set to return<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n","safe_summary":"Starting to really believe? The Flyers continued turning heads Thursday night with a 3-1 win over the Capitals for a huge seeding win in the round robin of the NHL's 24-team tournament. By Jordan Hall<\/p>\n"}]},"field_author_reference":{"und":[{"tid":"1056"}]},"field_bean_single_col":{"und":[{"target_id":"3706"}]},"field_chrome_page":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_date_published":{"und":[{"value":"2020-08-06 23:10:00","timezone":"America\/New_York","timezone_db":"UTC","date_type":"datetime"}]},"field_hero_image_credit":{"und":[{"value":"USA Today Images\/John E. Sokolowski","format":null,"safe_value":"USA Today Images\/John E. Sokolowski"}]},"field_image":{"und":[{"fid":"2512686","uid":"156","filename":"usa_sean_couturier.jpg","uri":"public:\/\/2020\/08\/06\/usa_sean_couturier.jpg","filemime":"image\/jpeg","filesize":"1005360","status":"1","timestamp":"1596751621","origname":"usa_sean_couturier.jpg","type":"image","field_file_image_alt_text":[],"field_file_image_title_text":[],"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":[],"metadata":{"height":809,"width":1500},"height":"809","width":"1500","alt":null,"title":null}]},"field_league":{"und":[{"tid":"196"}]},"field_section":{"und":[{"tid":"201"}]},"field_short_title":{"und":[{"value":"Flyers are making believers in round robin, pick up huge win for East seeding","format":null,"safe_value":"Flyers are making believers in round robin, pick up huge win for East seeding"}]},"field_sponsor":[],"field_sport":{"und":[{"tid":"191"}]},"field_tags":{"und":[{"tid":"22636"},{"tid":"34061"},{"tid":"9196"},{"tid":"33456"},{"tid":"2576"},{"tid":"466"},{"tid":"506"}]},"field_team":{"und":[{"tid":"141"}]},"field_top_story":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_video_autoplay":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_videos":{"und":[{"target_id":"819041"}]},"field_tags_hide":[],"field_video_automute":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_editorial_category":{"und":[{"value":"analysis"}]},"field_allow_lld_domains":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_enable_stanza":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_exclude_from_yahoo":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"robots":{"value":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","noindex":0,"nofollow":0,"noarchive":0,"nosnippet":0,"noodp":0,"noydir":0,"noimageindex":0,"notranslate":0}},"news_keywords":{"value":"Philadelphia Flyers, Washington Capitals, Jordan Hall, NHL playoffs, NHL round robin, 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Flyers observations"}}},"path":{"pathauto":"0"},"name":"JHall","picture":"0","data":"b:0;"},"access":true}]},"field_primary_display":[],"field_section":[],"field_show":[],"field_sport":[],"field_tags":[],"field_team":[],"field_author_reference":[],"field_archive":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_mc_auto_mute":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_mc_cont_play":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_mc_media_file_title":[],"field_mc_vod_player_id":[],"field_media_file_id":[],"field_mediacard_autoplay":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_display_desktop_large_only":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_hide_on_mobile":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","entity_view_prepared":true},"#items":[{"value":"article"},{"value":"headline"},{"value":"media_gallery"},{"value":"video_on_demand"}],"#formatter":"list_default","0":{"#markup":"Article"},"1":{"#markup":"Headline"},"2":{"#markup":"Media Gallery"},"3":{"#markup":"Video On Demand"}},"field_dl_tabloid_headline":{"#theme":"field","#weight":26,"#title":"Title Override","#access":true,"#label_display":"above","#view_mode":"default","#language":"und","#field_name":"field_dl_tabloid_headline","#field_type":"media_cards","#field_translatable":"0","#entity_type":"bean","#bundle":"media_card","#object":{"label":"NHL 24-team tournament","description":null,"title":"NHL 24-team tournament","type":"media_card","data":{"view_mode":"1col_eight_pack_headlines"},"delta":"nhls-24-team-tournament","view_mode":"1col_eight_pack_headlines","bid":"3706","vid":"19411","created":"1591301625","changed":"1597548624","log":"","uid":"156","default_revision":"1","revisions":[],"field_ad_hoc_group":[],"field_branded_header":[],"field_content_strategy":{"und":[{"value":"MANUAL_CONTENT_STRATEGY"}]},"field_content_type":{"und":[{"value":"article"},{"value":"headline"},{"value":"media_gallery"},{"value":"video_on_demand"}]},"field_dl_tabloid_headline":{"und":[{"value":""},{"value":""},{"value":""},{"value":""},{"value":""},{"value":""},{"value":""},{"value":""}]},"field_event":[],"field_genre_display":[],"field_league":[],"field_link":[],"field_links":[],"field_media_card_items":{"und":[{"target_id":"821221","entity":{"vid":"870321","uid":"156","title":"Alain Vigneault setting his tone? Calling out Kirk Muller, Canadiens has meaningful feel","log":"","status":"1","comment":"0","promote":"0","sticky":"0","nid":"821221","type":"article","language":"und","created":"1597450223","changed":"1597549306","tnid":"0","translate":"0","published":"1597466100","revision_timestamp":"1597549306","revision_uid":"156","body":{"und":[{"value":"Alain Vigneault knows his way around come postseason time.<\/p>He can be a different guy when those lights flicker on for the Stanley Cup Playoffs and that trophy is up for grabs.<\/p>That isn't to say he's not intense or competitive during the regular season, but he understands well and relishes what's at stake when the calendar turns to the postseason.<\/p>Everything is turned up a notch.<\/p>In the playoffs, Vigneault won't reveal any lineup decisions in the days leading up to a matchup. There's a new level of gamesmanship. Plain and simple, Vigneault wants to win. The five-time Jack Adams Award finalist who has now coached in four pressure-filled markets \u2014 Montreal, Vancouver, New York and Philadelphia \u2014 wants the Stanley Cup. He was a game away from winning it in 2011 with the Canucks, made it back to the Final in 2013 with the Rangers and owns 12 career playoff berths on his 17-year r\u00e9sum\u00e9.<\/p>When the Cup logo is flashing everywhere you look, he doesn't mess around.<\/p>\"At the end of the day, at this time, there are no friends,\" Vigneault said Monday. \"There are no friends in coaching and there shouldn\u2019t be any friends as far as players. There\u2019s a lot of respect obviously on both sides, but it\u2019s time to play and it\u2019s time to bring it. That\u2019s what both the Flyers and Montreal are going to try to do.\"<\/p>Vigneault's intensity, competitiveness and no-friends mantra were evident Friday night following <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-slammed-back-earth-game-2-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-possible-travis-konecny-injury\" target=\"_blank\">the Flyers' 5-0 loss to the Canadiens<\/a> in Game 2 of their best-of-seven first-round series.<\/p>After the top-seeded Flyers took Game 1, eighth-seeded Montreal took it to them Friday. And it didn't let up. With just over two minutes left to play and the Canadiens leading comfortably 5-0, Montreal went on the power play. Kirk Muller, serving as the Canadiens' head coach <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/montreal-canadiens-head-coach-claude-julien-released-hospital-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">in Claude Julien's stead<\/a>, sent out his first unit of Nick Suzuki, Tomas Tatar, Jonathan Drouin, Shea Weber and Jeff Petry.<\/p>Unprompted postgame, Vigneault went out of his way to highlight the opposition's late-game tactic in a blowout. Suffice it to say Muller's decision did not sit well with the Flyers' bench boss.<\/p><blockquote>I saw toward the end of the game there, where Kirk Muller, they've got a 5-0 lead and he puts his No. 1 power play on the ice. We had embarrassed ourselves enough, I don\u2019t think we needed to get embarrassed more. I\u2019m going to make sure our team is very aware of that next game.<\/p><\/blockquote>While Vigneault was genuinely peeved, the comment very well could be a motivational tactic for his club, to create a little bad blood in the series for a top-seeded team that maybe needed a reason to get angry after rolling through the round robin and gaining league-wide notoriety. The Flyers just received a mini wake-up call at an opportune time \u2014 early in the series when they were up 1-0. Now there's some fuel to their urgency for a response.<\/p>\"We got our butts kicked today in all facets of the game,\" Vigneault said. \"They outworked us, they outplayed us, they out-executed us.<\/p>\"Playoff hockey is about winning four games. Right now, the series is tied 1-1. There\u2019s no doubt that they outplayed us in all facets of the game tonight, especially in the will department. We\u2019re going to need to be a lot better.\"<\/p>Update: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-alain-vigneault-response-canadiens-2020-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers say they're built to respond and there's proof to believe it<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>Did Flyers players take notice of Montreal's first power play unit hitting the ice late in a 5-0 game?<\/p>\"Everyone sees everything out there,\" Kevin Hayes said. \"That\u2019s their coach\u2019s decision, you\u2019ve got to ask him.\"<\/p>\"Yeah, I saw it,\" Claude Giroux, not sounding too concerned by the move, said. \"No comment on that. We\u2019re just going to worry about the next game here.\"<\/p>Vigneault certainly means what he said about the waning minutes of a blowout. If you recall in February, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoff-race-flyers-win-panthers-potential-travis-sanheim-injury\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers had a 5-2 lead over the Panthers<\/a> and went on the power play with about a minute left in regulation. Vigneault sent out a man advantage unit of Robert Hagg, Justin Braun, Connor Bunnaman, Michael Raffl and Nicolas Aube-Kubel.<\/p>That was the regular season, this is the playoffs. Is there a major difference? We'll let you be the judge.<\/p>There are two sides to every story. Muller had a reasonable response when asked about Vigneault's displeasure with his decision.<\/p>\u201cI\u2019ve got a lot of respect, I\u2019ve worked with those coaches over there, they\u2019ve done a heck of a job with their team, they\u2019ve got a good hockey club,\" Muller said postgame. \"I would never disrespect anybody. But we\u2019re in the playoffs, you look at the first series against Pittsburgh, our power play wasn\u2019t that great. I felt that if this was during the season, it would be a different story, but we have no practice time here, we\u2019ve got to keep working on it.<\/p>\"I totally understand if that were his comments, I was probably expecting it, but my job is to make this team as good as it can be right now and I had to keep getting some of these guys that haven\u2019t been productive starting to feel it. I\u2019ve got to focus on our guys in that situation.\u201d<\/p>Vigneault was bothered by the Flyers' loss. He gave credit to the Canadiens. But he also discredited Montreal for that late-game decision.<\/p>The method to a Vigneault-driven playoff push hasn't been witnessed yet in Philadelphia.<\/p>This could be just the beginning.<\/p>Sports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p>Subscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p><a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p><h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3><ul><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-slammed-back-earth-game-2-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-possible-travis-konecny-injury\">Flyers slammed back to earth in Game 2, hope they didn't lose a huge piece<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/montreal-canadiens-head-coach-claude-julien-released-hospital-nhl-playoffs\">Canadiens head coach Julien released from hospital<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/ice-cream-memory-carey-price-carter-hart-ready-2020-nhl-playoffs\">Ice cream and a memory remind us Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/carter-hart-early-birthday-gift-flyers-beat-canadiens-game-1-1st-round-nhl-playoffs\">Enjoy that birthday, young man \u2014 Hart leads Flyers to a not-so-easy Game 1 win<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><\/ul>","summary":"Alain Vigneault was not happy with a decision Friday night by Canadiens coach Kirk Muller and went out of his way to make it known \u2014 for a purpose. By Jordan Hall<\/p>","format":"filtered_html","safe_value":"Alain Vigneault knows his way around come postseason time.<\/p>\nHe can be a different guy when those lights flicker on for the Stanley Cup Playoffs and that trophy is up for grabs.<\/p>\nThat isn't to say he's not intense or competitive during the regular season, but he understands well and relishes what's at stake when the calendar turns to the postseason.<\/p>\nEverything is turned up a notch.<\/p>\nIn the playoffs, Vigneault won't reveal any lineup decisions in the days leading up to a matchup. There's a new level of gamesmanship. Plain and simple, Vigneault wants to win. The five-time Jack Adams Award finalist who has now coached in four pressure-filled markets \u2014 Montreal, Vancouver, New York and Philadelphia \u2014 wants the Stanley Cup. He was a game away from winning it in 2011 with the Canucks, made it back to the Final in 2013 with the Rangers and owns 12 career playoff berths on his 17-year r\u00e9sum\u00e9.<\/p>\nWhen the Cup logo is flashing everywhere you look, he doesn't mess around.<\/p>\n\"At the end of the day, at this time, there are no friends,\" Vigneault said Monday. \"There are no friends in coaching and there shouldn\u2019t be any friends as far as players. There\u2019s a lot of respect obviously on both sides, but it\u2019s time to play and it\u2019s time to bring it. That\u2019s what both the Flyers and Montreal are going to try to do.\"<\/p>\nVigneault's intensity, competitiveness and no-friends mantra were evident Friday night following <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-slammed-back-earth-game-2-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-possible-travis-konecny-injury\" target=\"_blank\">the Flyers' 5-0 loss to the Canadiens<\/a> in Game 2 of their best-of-seven first-round series.<\/p>\nAfter the top-seeded Flyers took Game 1, eighth-seeded Montreal took it to them Friday. And it didn't let up. With just over two minutes left to play and the Canadiens leading comfortably 5-0, Montreal went on the power play. Kirk Muller, serving as the Canadiens' head coach <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/montreal-canadiens-head-coach-claude-julien-released-hospital-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">in Claude Julien's stead<\/a>, sent out his first unit of Nick Suzuki, Tomas Tatar, Jonathan Drouin, Shea Weber and Jeff Petry.<\/p>\nUnprompted postgame, Vigneault went out of his way to highlight the opposition's late-game tactic in a blowout. Suffice it to say Muller's decision did not sit well with the Flyers' bench boss.<\/p>\n<blockquote>I saw toward the end of the game there, where Kirk Muller, they've got a 5-0 lead and he puts his No. 1 power play on the ice. We had embarrassed ourselves enough, I don\u2019t think we needed to get embarrassed more. I\u2019m going to make sure our team is very aware of that next game.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\nWhile Vigneault was genuinely peeved, the comment very well could be a motivational tactic for his club, to create a little bad blood in the series for a top-seeded team that maybe needed a reason to get angry after rolling through the round robin and gaining league-wide notoriety. The Flyers just received a mini wake-up call at an opportune time \u2014 early in the series when they were up 1-0. Now there's some fuel to their urgency for a response.<\/p>\n\"We got our butts kicked today in all facets of the game,\" Vigneault said. \"They outworked us, they outplayed us, they out-executed us.<\/p>\n\"Playoff hockey is about winning four games. Right now, the series is tied 1-1. There\u2019s no doubt that they outplayed us in all facets of the game tonight, especially in the will department. We\u2019re going to need to be a lot better.\"<\/p>\nUpdate: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-alain-vigneault-response-canadiens-2020-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers say they're built to respond and there's proof to believe it<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\nDid Flyers players take notice of Montreal's first power play unit hitting the ice late in a 5-0 game?<\/p>\n\"Everyone sees everything out there,\" Kevin Hayes said. \"That\u2019s their coach\u2019s decision, you\u2019ve got to ask him.\"<\/p>\n\"Yeah, I saw it,\" Claude Giroux, not sounding too concerned by the move, said. \"No comment on that. We\u2019re just going to worry about the next game here.\"<\/p>\nVigneault certainly means what he said about the waning minutes of a blowout. If you recall in February, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoff-race-flyers-win-panthers-potential-travis-sanheim-injury\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers had a 5-2 lead over the Panthers<\/a> and went on the power play with about a minute left in regulation. Vigneault sent out a man advantage unit of Robert Hagg, Justin Braun, Connor Bunnaman, Michael Raffl and Nicolas Aube-Kubel.<\/p>\nThat was the regular season, this is the playoffs. Is there a major difference? We'll let you be the judge.<\/p>\nThere are two sides to every story. Muller had a reasonable response when asked about Vigneault's displeasure with his decision.<\/p>\n\u201cI\u2019ve got a lot of respect, I\u2019ve worked with those coaches over there, they\u2019ve done a heck of a job with their team, they\u2019ve got a good hockey club,\" Muller said postgame. \"I would never disrespect anybody. But we\u2019re in the playoffs, you look at the first series against Pittsburgh, our power play wasn\u2019t that great. I felt that if this was during the season, it would be a different story, but we have no practice time here, we\u2019ve got to keep working on it.<\/p>\n\"I totally understand if that were his comments, I was probably expecting it, but my job is to make this team as good as it can be right now and I had to keep getting some of these guys that haven\u2019t been productive starting to feel it. I\u2019ve got to focus on our guys in that situation.\u201d<\/p>\nVigneault was bothered by the Flyers' loss. He gave credit to the Canadiens. But he also discredited Montreal for that late-game decision.<\/p>\nThe method to a Vigneault-driven playoff push hasn't been witnessed yet in Philadelphia.<\/p>\nThis could be just the beginning.<\/p>\nSports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \nSubscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \n<a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-slammed-back-earth-game-2-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-possible-travis-konecny-injury\">Flyers slammed back to earth in Game 2, hope they didn't lose a huge piece<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/montreal-canadiens-head-coach-claude-julien-released-hospital-nhl-playoffs\">Canadiens head coach Julien released from hospital<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/ice-cream-memory-carey-price-carter-hart-ready-2020-nhl-playoffs\">Ice cream and a memory remind us Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/carter-hart-early-birthday-gift-flyers-beat-canadiens-game-1-1st-round-nhl-playoffs\">Enjoy that birthday, young man \u2014 Hart leads Flyers to a not-so-easy Game 1 win<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","safe_summary":"Alain Vigneault was not happy with a decision Friday night by Canadiens coach Kirk Muller and went out of his way to make it known \u2014 for a purpose. By Jordan Hall<\/p>\n"}]},"field_author_reference":{"und":[{"tid":"1056"}]},"field_bean_single_col":{"und":[{"target_id":"3706"}]},"field_chrome_page":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_date_published":{"und":[{"value":"2020-08-15 04:35:00","timezone":"America\/New_York","timezone_db":"UTC","date_type":"datetime"}]},"field_hero_image_credit":{"und":[{"value":"USA Today Images\/Dan Hamilton","format":null,"safe_value":"USA Today Images\/Dan Hamilton"}]},"field_image":{"und":[{"fid":"2529881","uid":"156","filename":"usa_kirk_muller_alain_vigneault.jpg","uri":"public:\/\/2020\/08\/14\/usa_kirk_muller_alain_vigneault.jpg","filemime":"image\/jpeg","filesize":"1325052","status":"1","timestamp":"1597449859","origname":"usa_kirk_muller_alain_vigneault.jpg","type":"image","field_file_image_alt_text":[],"field_file_image_title_text":[],"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":[],"metadata":{"height":845,"width":1500},"height":"845","width":"1500","alt":null,"title":null}]},"field_league":{"und":[{"tid":"196"}]},"field_section":{"und":[{"tid":"201"}]},"field_short_title":{"und":[{"value":"Vigneault setting his tone? Calling out Canadiens coach has meaningful feel","format":null,"safe_value":"Vigneault setting his tone? Calling out Canadiens coach has meaningful feel"}]},"field_sponsor":[],"field_sport":{"und":[{"tid":"191"}]},"field_tags":{"und":[{"tid":"34056"},{"tid":"10491"},{"tid":"33456"},{"tid":"2576"},{"tid":"466"},{"tid":"30436"},{"tid":"506"},{"tid":"34721"}]},"field_team":{"und":[{"tid":"141"}]},"field_top_story":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_video_autoplay":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_videos":{"und":[{"target_id":"821261"}]},"field_tags_hide":[],"field_video_automute":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_editorial_category":{"und":[{"value":"columns"}]},"field_allow_lld_domains":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_enable_stanza":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_exclude_from_yahoo":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"robots":{"value":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","noindex":0,"nofollow":0,"noarchive":0,"nosnippet":0,"noodp":0,"noydir":0,"noimageindex":0,"notranslate":0}},"news_keywords":{"value":"Alain Vigneault, Kirk Muller, NHL playoffs, 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Jordan Hall, Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens"}}},"path":{"pathauto":"0"},"name":"JHall","picture":"0","data":"b:0;"},"access":true},{"target_id":"821381","entity":{"vid":"870481","uid":"156","title":"Flyers say they're built to respond in NHL playoffs and there's proof to believe it","log":"","status":"1","comment":"0","promote":"0","sticky":"0","nid":"821381","type":"article","language":"und","created":"1597528144","changed":"1597548786","tnid":"0","translate":"0","published":"1597546800","revision_timestamp":"1597548786","revision_uid":"156","body":{"und":[{"value":"Among the 31 players on the Flyers' roster, Matt Niskanen has experienced the most playoff wars and the pressure that hangs over them.<\/p>The 33-year-old defenseman has played in 130 career postseason games and counting. He won the 2018 Stanley Cup with the Capitals and his time in D.C. featured an accomplished core of players that had to constantly stare playoff pressure in the eyes. Before 2018, the Capitals created expectations with back-to-back Presidents' Trophy honors from 2015-17 and had never hoisted the Cup in their organization's history.<\/p>In the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs, the Flyers are the Eastern Conference's top seed after climbing from No. 4 to No. 1 during the round robin. In the first round, they're coming off an eye-opening 5-0 loss to the Canadiens, who entered the NHL's return-to-play tournament as the lowest overall seed in the 24-team field.<\/p>The alarming Game 2 has called for a loud response from the Flyers with the series knotted at 1-1 heading into Sunday's Game 3 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-schedule-2020-nhl-playoffs-dates-game-times-broadcast-information\" target=\"_blank\">(8 p.m. ET\/NBC)<\/a>. Niskanen, who has played on various clubs that went through the postseason trenches, was asked why these Flyers are built to respond in the playoffs like they did during their regular-season stretch run.<\/p>\"We've got guys that are hungry for success,\" Niskanen said Friday with some conviction in his voice following the loss to Montreal.<\/p>\"I like our group, we believe in our abilities. ... We had a bit of a blunder today, we\u2019ll learn from it quickly and get excited and get our energy up for the next game. I know we\u2019ll play better.\"<\/p>The Flyers' belief in their ability to quickly respond holds merit. From Jan. 8 to the end of the regular season (which was March 12 because of the coronavirus outbreak), the Flyers went 19-6-1 without consecutive losses. Over that time, in games after their last eight losses (including their 2-0 loss to the Bruins in the regular-season finale), the Flyers are 8-0-0 and have outscored the opposition 40-17.<\/p>On Jan. 16, the Flyers stumbled to the Canadiens, 4-1. They followed it up with a 4-1 win over the Kings and 3-0 blanking of the Penguins. On Feb. 6, the Flyers were blown out by the Devils, 5-0, at the Wells Fargo Center. Their very next game, they routed the Capitals, 7-2, on the road.<\/p>Turning the page became <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-odds-24-team-tournament-season\" target=\"_blank\">a staple under head coach Alain Vigneault<\/a> as the Flyers started climbing the standings. They need that staple early in the playoffs. The Flyers were going to eventually lose a game in the postseason, but the defeat was not expected to be by five goals or a truly one-sided decision this soon through the first round.<\/p>\"We have [Carter Hart and Brian Elliott] in there, they always help, we've got the right coaching staff and we've got the right leaders on this team that know that we need to respond in a certain way,\" Kevin Hayes said Friday. \"I have all the faith in the world in our leaders and in all of our teammates that we\u2019re going to respond in the right way in Game 3.\"<\/p>Losses of the flavor the Flyers tasted in Game 2 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-slammed-back-earth-game-2-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-possible-travis-konecny-injury\" target=\"_blank\">tend to bring at least some changes or tweaks<\/a>. The statuses of Travis Konecny and Michael Raffl are uncertain for Game 3. Konecny exited late in the third period of Game 2 after blocking a shot with his foot and Raffl has missed the last four games with an undisclosed injury but took part in warmups Friday. Per NHL protocols for the tournament, Vigneault is not permitted to release specifics on any injuries\/illnesses. It's not as if he would anyway this time of year. For strategic purposes, the bench boss is not disclosing lineup decisions during the postseason.<\/p>But Vigneault and his staff have important adjustments to dissect and discuss, adjustments that could come down the lineup.<\/p>\"Well, that\u2019s why they pay me the big bucks, you know?\" Vigneault said with a laugh Saturday. \"At the end of the day, that was our first really tough game in the last 16 or 17. Do you make some minor changes? Do you make some major changes? Do you show faith in the group that brought you to the dance and played extremely well down the stretch? Tune in, you\u2019ll find out tomorrow.\"<\/p>And we'll find out how well the top-seeded Flyers are prepared for an early test of playoff fortitude.<\/p>Sports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p>Subscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p><a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p><h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3><ul><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/alain-vigneault-calling-out-kirk-muller-canadiens-meaningful-feel-nhl-playoffs\">Vigneault setting his tone? Calling out Canadiens coach has meaningful feel<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-slammed-back-earth-game-2-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-possible-travis-konecny-injury\">Flyers slammed back to earth in Game 2, hope they didn't lose a huge piece<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/montreal-canadiens-head-coach-claude-julien-released-hospital-nhl-playoffs\">Canadiens head coach Julien released from hospital<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/ice-cream-memory-carey-price-carter-hart-ready-2020-nhl-playoffs\">Ice cream and a memory remind us Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><\/ul>","summary":"The Flyers have said they're built to respond from the ugly Game 2 loss and there's proof to believe it. By Jordan Hall<\/p>","format":"filtered_html","safe_value":"Among the 31 players on the Flyers' roster, Matt Niskanen has experienced the most playoff wars and the pressure that hangs over them.<\/p>\nThe 33-year-old defenseman has played in 130 career postseason games and counting. He won the 2018 Stanley Cup with the Capitals and his time in D.C. featured an accomplished core of players that had to constantly stare playoff pressure in the eyes. Before 2018, the Capitals created expectations with back-to-back Presidents' Trophy honors from 2015-17 and had never hoisted the Cup in their organization's history.<\/p>\nIn the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs, the Flyers are the Eastern Conference's top seed after climbing from No. 4 to No. 1 during the round robin. In the first round, they're coming off an eye-opening 5-0 loss to the Canadiens, who entered the NHL's return-to-play tournament as the lowest overall seed in the 24-team field.<\/p>\nThe alarming Game 2 has called for a loud response from the Flyers with the series knotted at 1-1 heading into Sunday's Game 3 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-schedule-2020-nhl-playoffs-dates-game-times-broadcast-information\" target=\"_blank\">(8 p.m. ET\/NBC)<\/a>. Niskanen, who has played on various clubs that went through the postseason trenches, was asked why these Flyers are built to respond in the playoffs like they did during their regular-season stretch run.<\/p>\n\"We've got guys that are hungry for success,\" Niskanen said Friday with some conviction in his voice following the loss to Montreal.<\/p>\n\"I like our group, we believe in our abilities. ... We had a bit of a blunder today, we\u2019ll learn from it quickly and get excited and get our energy up for the next game. I know we\u2019ll play better.\"<\/p>\nThe Flyers' belief in their ability to quickly respond holds merit. From Jan. 8 to the end of the regular season (which was March 12 because of the coronavirus outbreak), the Flyers went 19-6-1 without consecutive losses. Over that time, in games after their last eight losses (including their 2-0 loss to the Bruins in the regular-season finale), the Flyers are 8-0-0 and have outscored the opposition 40-17.<\/p>\nOn Jan. 16, the Flyers stumbled to the Canadiens, 4-1. They followed it up with a 4-1 win over the Kings and 3-0 blanking of the Penguins. On Feb. 6, the Flyers were blown out by the Devils, 5-0, at the Wells Fargo Center. Their very next game, they routed the Capitals, 7-2, on the road.<\/p>\nTurning the page became <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-odds-24-team-tournament-season\" target=\"_blank\">a staple under head coach Alain Vigneault<\/a> as the Flyers started climbing the standings. They need that staple early in the playoffs. The Flyers were going to eventually lose a game in the postseason, but the defeat was not expected to be by five goals or a truly one-sided decision this soon through the first round.<\/p>\n\"We have [Carter Hart and Brian Elliott] in there, they always help, we've got the right coaching staff and we've got the right leaders on this team that know that we need to respond in a certain way,\" Kevin Hayes said Friday. \"I have all the faith in the world in our leaders and in all of our teammates that we\u2019re going to respond in the right way in Game 3.\"<\/p>\nLosses of the flavor the Flyers tasted in Game 2 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-slammed-back-earth-game-2-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-possible-travis-konecny-injury\" target=\"_blank\">tend to bring at least some changes or tweaks<\/a>. The statuses of Travis Konecny and Michael Raffl are uncertain for Game 3. Konecny exited late in the third period of Game 2 after blocking a shot with his foot and Raffl has missed the last four games with an undisclosed injury but took part in warmups Friday. Per NHL protocols for the tournament, Vigneault is not permitted to release specifics on any injuries\/illnesses. It's not as if he would anyway this time of year. For strategic purposes, the bench boss is not disclosing lineup decisions during the postseason.<\/p>\nBut Vigneault and his staff have important adjustments to dissect and discuss, adjustments that could come down the lineup.<\/p>\n\"Well, that\u2019s why they pay me the big bucks, you know?\" Vigneault said with a laugh Saturday. \"At the end of the day, that was our first really tough game in the last 16 or 17. Do you make some minor changes? Do you make some major changes? Do you show faith in the group that brought you to the dance and played extremely well down the stretch? Tune in, you\u2019ll find out tomorrow.\"<\/p>\nAnd we'll find out how well the top-seeded Flyers are prepared for an early test of playoff fortitude.<\/p>\nSports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \nSubscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \n<a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/alain-vigneault-calling-out-kirk-muller-canadiens-meaningful-feel-nhl-playoffs\">Vigneault setting his tone? Calling out Canadiens coach has meaningful feel<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-slammed-back-earth-game-2-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-possible-travis-konecny-injury\">Flyers slammed back to earth in Game 2, hope they didn't lose a huge piece<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/montreal-canadiens-head-coach-claude-julien-released-hospital-nhl-playoffs\">Canadiens head coach Julien released from hospital<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/ice-cream-memory-carey-price-carter-hart-ready-2020-nhl-playoffs\">Ice cream and a memory remind us Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","safe_summary":"The Flyers have said they're built to respond from the ugly Game 2 loss and there's proof to believe it. By Jordan Hall<\/p>\n"}]},"field_author_reference":{"und":[{"tid":"1056"}]},"field_bean_single_col":{"und":[{"target_id":"3706"}]},"field_chrome_page":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_date_published":{"und":[{"value":"2020-08-16 03:00:00","timezone":"America\/New_York","timezone_db":"UTC","date_type":"datetime"}]},"field_hero_image_credit":{"und":[{"value":"Mark Blinch\/NHLI via Getty Images","format":null,"safe_value":"Mark Blinch\/NHLI via Getty Images"}]},"field_image":{"und":[{"fid":"2531666","uid":"156","filename":"getty_matt_niskanen.jpg","uri":"public:\/\/2020\/08\/15\/getty_images_matt_niskanen.jpg","filemime":"image\/jpeg","filesize":"1289971","status":"1","timestamp":"1597546194","origname":"usa_claude_giroux.jpg","type":"image","field_file_image_alt_text":[],"field_file_image_title_text":[],"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"title":{"value":"[current-page:title] | [current-page:pager][site:name]","default":"[current-page:title] | 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say they're built to respond and there's proof to believe it","format":null,"safe_value":"Flyers say they're built to respond and there's proof to believe it"}]},"field_sponsor":[],"field_sport":{"und":[{"tid":"191"}]},"field_tags":{"und":[{"tid":"10491"},{"tid":"34056"},{"tid":"33456"},{"tid":"2576"},{"tid":"466"},{"tid":"506"}]},"field_team":{"und":[{"tid":"141"}]},"field_top_story":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_video_autoplay":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_videos":{"und":[{"target_id":"821246"}]},"field_tags_hide":[],"field_video_automute":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_editorial_category":{"und":[{"value":"columns"}]},"field_allow_lld_domains":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_enable_stanza":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_exclude_from_yahoo":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"robots":{"value":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","noindex":0,"nofollow":0,"noarchive":0,"nosnippet":0,"noodp":0,"noydir":0,"noimageindex":0,"notranslate":0}},"news_keywords":{"value":"Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens, Jordan Hall, NHL playoffs, 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs"}}},"path":{"pathauto":"0"},"name":"JHall","picture":"0","data":"b:0;"},"access":true},{"target_id":"821151","entity":{"vid":"870251","uid":"156","title":"Flyers slammed back to earth in Game 2, hope they didn't lose Travis Konecny to injury","log":"","status":"1","comment":"0","promote":"0","sticky":"0","nid":"821151","type":"article","language":"und","created":"1597434834","changed":"1597519421","tnid":"0","translate":"0","published":"1597441800","revision_timestamp":"1597519421","revision_uid":"156","body":{"und":[{"value":"<a href=\"https:\/\/csnphilly.stats.com\/nhl\/boxscore.asp?gamecode=2020081415\" target=\"_blank\">BOX SCORE<\/a><\/p>Entering Friday afternoon's game, the Flyers had not yet trailed through their 4-0-0 start to the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament.<\/p>They trailed early and big in a back-to-earth Game 2 loss to the Canadiens at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, a disastrous 5-0 decision that has evened the Flyers' best-of-seven first-round playoff series with Montreal.<\/p>Carter Hart was yanked from the game with 2:03 left in the middle frame after yielding more than three goals for the first time in 12 games.<\/p>An awful first period by the Flyers (more on that below) set the tone and now head coach Alain Vigneault will have to work his magic with some adjustments if his top-seeded club wants to regain control of the series.<\/p>\"We got our butts kicked,\" Vigneault said postgame in a video interview.<\/p>More: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/alain-vigneault-calling-out-kirk-muller-canadiens-meaningful-feel-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Vigneault setting his tone? Calling out Canadiens coach has meaningful feel<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1294414103344283653?s=20<\/p>\u2022 After shining through his first three starts in the tournament (3-0-0, 1.00 goals-against average) and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/ice-cream-memory-carey-price-carter-hart-ready-2020-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">having his 22nd birthday Wednesday<\/a>, Hart was roughed up by Montreal.<\/p>The Flyers were not good in front of him and Hart wasn't good himself, either.<\/p>On Jesperi Kotkaniemi's first of two goals to make it 2-0 in the opening stanza, Hart had a bad giveaway behind his net that eventually led to the marker. If there's one thing Hart has had to work on, it's his play with the puck outside of his crease.<\/p>[[{\"fid\":\"2529646\",\"view_mode\":\"default\",\"fields\":{\"format\":\"default\",\"field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]\":false,\"field_file_image_title_text[und][0][value]\":false},\"type\":\"media\",\"field_deltas\":{\"1\":{\"format\":\"default\",\"field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]\":false,\"field_file_image_title_text[und][0][value]\":false}},\"attributes\":{\"class\":\"media-element file-default\",\"data-delta\":\"1\"}}]]<\/p>Hart made only 22 saves on 26 shots before Brian Elliott took over, finishing the game with five saves on six shots. Hart will be right back at it in Game 3. It's his first taste of failure in the NHL playoffs.<\/p>Carey Price is so difficult to beat when he has a big lead. He was impressive and pitched a 30-save shutout.<\/p>\u2022 As the Flyers started looking like a contender down the stretch of the regular season and through the round robin, they didn't give fans much at all to complain about; they were that good.<\/p>Well, the first period Friday against the Canadiens was worthy of complaints. The Flyers put out what might have been one of their worst first-period performances of the 2019-20 season.<\/p>From the onset, the Flyers looked slow, sloppy and out of sync as the eighth-seeded Canadiens completely took it to the Eastern Conference's top seed.<\/p>The Flyers trailed 1:02 into the action on a Tomas Tatar goal (his first of two) and things never got better during the opening stanza. As a result, they were down by multiple goals at first intermission for the first time in their last 15 games, while they were outshot 16-6. At one point, Montreal had a 12-0 advantage in shots. <\/p>It sort of felt like an ugly flashback to 2018-19. The Flyers were not ready or energized out of the chute and it burned them a game in this series. Every game is precious in the playoffs.<\/p>\u2022 The Flyers' nightmare was capped when All-Star and leading scorer in the regular season Travis Konecny exited the game in the third period after blocking a shot with his foot.<\/p>Konecny departed under his own power without putting pressure on his left leg. The Flyers will hope it was a precautionary exit in a game that was already decided.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1294384090192510976?s=20<\/p>Michael Raffl <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">(undisclosed injury)<\/a> was able to skate in warmups after missing the final two round-robin games and Game 1 of this series. Scratches can skate during warmups and the fact that Raffl partook is a good sign for his potential return.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1294712090528186369?s=20<\/p>\u2022 If you're looking for any positives after this one, it's that the Flyers went 19-6-1 without consecutive losses from Jan. 8 to the end of the regular season (also known as the NHL pause on March 12).<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1246901909107232771?s=20<\/p>Under Vigneault, the Flyers were very good at burying a bad performance by quickly turning the page with proper adjustments. They suffered a 5-0 loss and 4-1 defeat during that stretch from Jan. 8 to the end of the season; they responded well from both of those clunkers with strong wins.<\/p>\u2022 Losses like that will bring changes in the playoffs.<\/p>The third defensive pair of Shayne Gostisbehere and Justin Braun struggled. Both blueliners had a minus-2 rating, both had turnovers and both just didn't look in rhythm.<\/p>The Canadiens' fourth goal took a bad bounce of off Gostisbehere's skate. Those happen but they also don't look good. A Gostisbehere penalty led to a Montreal power play goal to make it 3-0. The holding call on Gostisbehere was questionable as he was trying to prevent a breakaway from Max Domi.<\/p>Everyone played poorly, but it wouldn't be surprising if Vigneault gives Robert Hagg a look for defensive and physicality reasons in a big Game 3.<\/p>\u2022 In an attempt to spark the Flyers, Vigneault shuffled his lines for the third period but it didn't lead to much.<\/p>The Flyers' top five goal scorers from the regular season \u2014 Konecny (24 goals), Kevin Hayes (23), Sean Couturier (22), Claude Giroux (21) and James van Riemsdyk (19) \u2014 have combined for nine assists but no goals in the tournament so far.<\/p>\u2022 The Flyers' power play is 1 for 19 in the tournament. It hasn't been sharp or consistent when the Flyers get set up.<\/p>\u2022 The series continues Sunday with Game 3 at 8 p.m. ET on NBC.<\/p>For the full series schedule, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-schedule-2020-nhl-playoffs-dates-game-times-broadcast-information\" target=\"_blank\">click here<\/a>.<\/p>The Flyers won't have an on-ice practice Saturday.<\/p>Sports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p>Subscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p><a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p><h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3><ul><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/montreal-canadiens-head-coach-claude-julien-released-hospital-nhl-playoffs\">Canadiens head coach Julien released from hospital<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/ice-cream-memory-carey-price-carter-hart-ready-2020-nhl-playoffs\">Ice cream and a memory remind us Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/carter-hart-early-birthday-gift-flyers-beat-canadiens-game-1-1st-round-nhl-playoffs\">Enjoy that birthday, young man \u2014 Hart leads Flyers to a not-so-easy Game 1 win<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-draft-lottery-rangers-win-no-1-pick-consensus-alexis-lafreniere\">No. 1 pick lands in Metropolitan Division but to the lesser of two Flyers rivals<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><\/ul>","summary":"The Flyers on Friday were thumped by the Habs, 5-0, in Game 2 of their best-of-seven first-round playoff series, which is now all even at 1-1. By Jordan Hall<\/p>","format":"filtered_html","safe_value":"<a href=\"https:\/\/csnphilly.stats.com\/nhl\/boxscore.asp?gamecode=2020081415\" target=\"_blank\">BOX SCORE<\/a><\/p>\nEntering Friday afternoon's game, the Flyers had not yet trailed through their 4-0-0 start to the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament.<\/p>\nThey trailed early and big in a back-to-earth Game 2 loss to the Canadiens at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, a disastrous 5-0 decision that has evened the Flyers' best-of-seven first-round playoff series with Montreal.<\/p>\nCarter Hart was yanked from the game with 2:03 left in the middle frame after yielding more than three goals for the first time in 12 games.<\/p>\nAn awful first period by the Flyers (more on that below) set the tone and now head coach Alain Vigneault will have to work his magic with some adjustments if his top-seeded club wants to regain control of the series.<\/p>\n\"We got our butts kicked,\" Vigneault said postgame in a video interview.<\/p>\nMore: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/alain-vigneault-calling-out-kirk-muller-canadiens-meaningful-feel-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Vigneault setting his tone? Calling out Canadiens coach has meaningful feel<\/a><\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Flyers' largest margins of defeat this season: 6 goals \u2014 7-1 loss to Penguins, Oct. 29 5 goals \u2014 5-0 loss to Canadiens, Aug. 14 (playoffs) 5 goals \u2014 6-1 loss to Sharks, Dec. 28 5 goals \u2014 5-0 loss to Devils, Feb. 6<\/p>— Jordan Hall (@JHallNBCS) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1294414103344283653?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 14, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 After shining through his first three starts in the tournament (3-0-0, 1.00 goals-against average) and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/ice-cream-memory-carey-price-carter-hart-ready-2020-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">having his 22nd birthday Wednesday<\/a>, Hart was roughed up by Montreal.<\/p>\nThe Flyers were not good in front of him and Hart wasn't good himself, either.<\/p>\nOn Jesperi Kotkaniemi's first of two goals to make it 2-0 in the opening stanza, Hart had a bad giveaway behind his net that eventually led to the marker. If there's one thing Hart has had to work on, it's his play with the puck outside of his crease.<\/p>\n<div class=\"media media-element-container media-default\"><div id=\"file-2529646--54\" class=\"file file-image file-image-jpeg\">\r\n\r\n <h2 class=\"element-invisible\"><a href=\"\/files\/hartjpg-6\">hart.jpg<\/a><\/h2>\r\n \r\n \r\n <div class=\"content\">\r\n <img class=\"media-element file-default\" data-delta=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/sites\/csnphilly\/files\/hart.jpg\" width=\"1150\" height=\"568\" alt=\"\" \/> <\/div>\r\n\r\n \r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div><\/p>\nHart made only 22 saves on 26 shots before Brian Elliott took over, finishing the game with five saves on six shots. Hart will be right back at it in Game 3. It's his first taste of failure in the NHL playoffs.<\/p>\nCarey Price is so difficult to beat when he has a big lead. He was impressive and pitched a 30-save shutout.<\/p>\n\u2022 As the Flyers started looking like a contender down the stretch of the regular season and through the round robin, they didn't give fans much at all to complain about; they were that good.<\/p>\nWell, the first period Friday against the Canadiens was worthy of complaints. The Flyers put out what might have been one of their worst first-period performances of the 2019-20 season.<\/p>\nFrom the onset, the Flyers looked slow, sloppy and out of sync as the eighth-seeded Canadiens completely took it to the Eastern Conference's top seed.<\/p>\nThe Flyers trailed 1:02 into the action on a Tomas Tatar goal (his first of two) and things never got better during the opening stanza. As a result, they were down by multiple goals at first intermission for the first time in their last 15 games, while they were outshot 16-6. At one point, Montreal had a 12-0 advantage in shots. <\/p>\nIt sort of felt like an ugly flashback to 2018-19. The Flyers were not ready or energized out of the chute and it burned them a game in this series. Every game is precious in the playoffs.<\/p>\n\u2022 The Flyers' nightmare was capped when All-Star and leading scorer in the regular season Travis Konecny exited the game in the third period after blocking a shot with his foot.<\/p>\nKonecny departed under his own power without putting pressure on his left leg. The Flyers will hope it was a precautionary exit in a game that was already decided.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Salt in the wound: Travis Konecny leaves the game after blocking a shot. Flyers will want to bury this one far and away. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/C0pScdiaZc\">pic.twitter.com\/C0pScdiaZc<\/a><\/p>— Jordan Hall (@JHallNBCS) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1294384090192510976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 14, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\nMichael Raffl <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">(undisclosed injury)<\/a> was able to skate in warmups after missing the final two round-robin games and Game 1 of this series. Scratches can skate during warmups and the fact that Raffl partook is a good sign for his potential return.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Alain Vigneault can't comment on the statuses of Michael Raffl and Travis Konecny.<\/p>— Jordan Hall (@JHallNBCS) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1294712090528186369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 15, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 If you're looking for any positives after this one, it's that the Flyers went 19-6-1 without consecutive losses from Jan. 8 to the end of the regular season (also known as the NHL pause on March 12).<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">The Flyers since Jan. 8 prior to NHL stoppage. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/icUrYeh98q\">pic.twitter.com\/icUrYeh98q<\/a><\/p>— Jordan Hall (@JHallNBCS) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1246901909107232771?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">April 5, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\nUnder Vigneault, the Flyers were very good at burying a bad performance by quickly turning the page with proper adjustments. They suffered a 5-0 loss and 4-1 defeat during that stretch from Jan. 8 to the end of the season; they responded well from both of those clunkers with strong wins.<\/p>\n\u2022 Losses like that will bring changes in the playoffs.<\/p>\nThe third defensive pair of Shayne Gostisbehere and Justin Braun struggled. Both blueliners had a minus-2 rating, both had turnovers and both just didn't look in rhythm.<\/p>\nThe Canadiens' fourth goal took a bad bounce of off Gostisbehere's skate. Those happen but they also don't look good. A Gostisbehere penalty led to a Montreal power play goal to make it 3-0. The holding call on Gostisbehere was questionable as he was trying to prevent a breakaway from Max Domi.<\/p>\nEveryone played poorly, but it wouldn't be surprising if Vigneault gives Robert Hagg a look for defensive and physicality reasons in a big Game 3.<\/p>\n\u2022 In an attempt to spark the Flyers, Vigneault shuffled his lines for the third period but it didn't lead to much.<\/p>\nThe Flyers' top five goal scorers from the regular season \u2014 Konecny (24 goals), Kevin Hayes (23), Sean Couturier (22), Claude Giroux (21) and James van Riemsdyk (19) \u2014 have combined for nine assists but no goals in the tournament so far.<\/p>\n\u2022 The Flyers' power play is 1 for 19 in the tournament. It hasn't been sharp or consistent when the Flyers get set up.<\/p>\n\u2022 The series continues Sunday with Game 3 at 8 p.m. ET on NBC.<\/p>\nFor the full series schedule, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-schedule-2020-nhl-playoffs-dates-game-times-broadcast-information\" target=\"_blank\">click here<\/a>.<\/p>\nThe Flyers won't have an on-ice practice Saturday.<\/p>\nSports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \nSubscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \n<a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/montreal-canadiens-head-coach-claude-julien-released-hospital-nhl-playoffs\">Canadiens head coach Julien released from hospital<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/ice-cream-memory-carey-price-carter-hart-ready-2020-nhl-playoffs\">Ice cream and a memory remind us Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/carter-hart-early-birthday-gift-flyers-beat-canadiens-game-1-1st-round-nhl-playoffs\">Enjoy that birthday, young man \u2014 Hart leads Flyers to a not-so-easy Game 1 win<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-draft-lottery-rangers-win-no-1-pick-consensus-alexis-lafreniere\">No. 1 pick lands in Metropolitan Division but to the lesser of two Flyers rivals<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","safe_summary":"The Flyers on Friday were thumped by the Habs, 5-0, in Game 2 of their best-of-seven first-round playoff series, which is now all even at 1-1. By Jordan Hall<\/p>\n"}]},"field_author_reference":{"und":[{"tid":"1056"}]},"field_bean_single_col":{"und":[{"target_id":"3706"}]},"field_chrome_page":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_date_published":{"und":[{"value":"2020-08-14 21:50:00","timezone":"America\/New_York","timezone_db":"UTC","date_type":"datetime"}]},"field_hero_image_credit":{"und":[{"value":"USA Today Images\/Dan Hamilton","format":null,"safe_value":"USA Today Images\/Dan Hamilton"}]},"field_image":{"und":[{"fid":"2529596","uid":"156","filename":"usa_shayne_gostisbehere.jpg","uri":"public:\/\/2020\/08\/14\/usa_shayne_gostisbehere.jpg","filemime":"image\/jpeg","filesize":"1041306","status":"1","timestamp":"1597438317","origname":"usa_shayne_gostisbehere.jpg","type":"image","field_file_image_alt_text":[],"field_file_image_title_text":[],"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":[],"metadata":{"height":806,"width":1500},"height":"806","width":"1500","alt":null,"title":null}]},"field_league":{"und":[{"tid":"196"}]},"field_section":{"und":[{"tid":"201"}]},"field_short_title":{"und":[{"value":"Flyers slammed back to earth in Game 2, hope they didn't lose a huge piece","format":null,"safe_value":"Flyers slammed back to earth in Game 2, hope they didn't lose a huge piece"}]},"field_sponsor":[],"field_sport":{"und":[{"tid":"191"}]},"field_tags":{"und":[{"tid":"34056"},{"tid":"33456"},{"tid":"2576"},{"tid":"22636"},{"tid":"10491"},{"tid":"466"},{"tid":"506"}]},"field_team":{"und":[{"tid":"141"}]},"field_top_story":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_video_autoplay":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_videos":{"und":[{"target_id":"821181"}]},"field_tags_hide":[],"field_video_automute":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_editorial_category":{"und":[{"value":"analysis"}]},"field_allow_lld_domains":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_enable_stanza":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_exclude_from_yahoo":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"robots":{"value":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","noindex":0,"nofollow":0,"noarchive":0,"nosnippet":0,"noodp":0,"noydir":0,"noimageindex":0,"notranslate":0}},"news_keywords":{"value":"Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens, Flyers playoffs, Jordan Hall, Flyers observations, NHL playoffs, 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs"}}},"path":{"pathauto":"0"},"name":"JHall","picture":"0","data":"b:0;"},"access":true},{"target_id":"819626","entity":{"vid":"868716","uid":"156","title":"Ice cream and a memory vs. Carey Price remind us Carter Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment","log":"","status":"1","comment":"0","promote":"0","sticky":"0","nid":"819626","type":"article","language":"und","created":"1596989819","changed":"1597369061","tnid":"0","translate":"0","published":"1597368900","revision_timestamp":"1597369061","revision_uid":"156","body":{"und":[{"value":"When Carey Price was at his most dominant, winning the Vezina Trophy (top goalie) and <\/em>Hart Memorial Trophy (MVP) in 2014-15, Carter Hart was just 16 years old. <\/p>The precocious but innocent kid had just begun molding his game at the junior hockey level with the WHL's Silvertips in Everett, Washington.<\/p>Price was at the sport's pinnacle.<\/p>\"He was my favorite goalie growing up,\" Hart said.<\/p>On Wednesday, the night before his 22nd birthday, Hart found himself stretching next to Price at the center-ice line in front of the scorekeepers' bench.<\/p>There was Hart, on the same NHL stage as his idol, facing him in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.<\/p>The NHL postseason is serious business, requiring the utmost competitiveness and focus. Hart, whose youthfulness often belies his maturity, fully understands the beast that is the Stanley Cup Playoffs. But the postseason makes for special moments and memories. NHL players all looked up to someone at some point. For Hart, he allowed himself to appreciate the storyline ahead.<\/p>\"Definitely really cool,\" Hart said last Sunday about the upcoming best-of-seven first-round matchup with Price's Canadiens. \"Just had the chance to actually meet him the other week and talk with him for the first time, so that was something pretty cool. For your first playoff series, playing against Carey Price will definitely be a lot of fun; I look forward to it.\"<\/p>Price, who turns 33 years old on Sunday, was unable to spoil the youngster's birthday. By midnight, Hart and the top-seeded Flyers had a 1-0 series lead after earning a hard-fought 2-1 victory over eighth-seeded Montreal. Hart is 3-0-0 with a 1.00 goals-against average and .966 save percentage through three games in the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament.<\/p>On the ice, the Flyers were able to celebrate around Hart after he turned away 27 of 28 shots, with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/carter-hart-early-birthday-gift-flyers-beat-canadiens-game-1-1st-round-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">16 of those saves coming in the second period when the Flyers really needed him<\/a>.<\/p>Off the ice, they made sure to celebrate Hart's birthday a little early, making the best of the circumstances in the Eastern Conference's Toronto bubble.<\/p>\u201cI think some guys got him some ice cream yesterday after the game and just sang him happy birthday,\" Shayne Gostisbehere said Thursday with a smile. \"He\u2019s been pretty good.\u201d<\/p>\u201cLet him do his thing,\u201d Scott Laughton chimed in about Hart.<\/p>\u201cYeah, let him do his thing,\" Gostisbehere echoed.<\/p>After a short and sweet exchange with Price, Hart did his thing in Game 1.<\/p>\u201cJust said hello quickly in warmups, good luck and it was just time to go play,\" Hart said.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NHLGIFs\/status\/1293708363382087683?s=20<\/p>If Hart continues to play the way he has this season and to start the tournament, he could remember the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs for much more than a memorable matchup with Price.<\/p>But there's a kid in everyone. Then again, Hart is only 22 years old.<\/p>\"He\u2019s a special kid,\" Derek Grant said last week. \"He\u2019s so calm. He puts his mask on, you don\u2019t know how old he is.\"<\/p>With his mask off, Hart hopefully enjoyed a little ice cream and soaked in the moment.<\/p>Sports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p>Subscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p><a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p><h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3><ul><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/canadiens-coach-claude-julien-hospitalized-chest-pain\">Canadiens head coach Julien hospitalized with chest pain<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/carter-hart-early-birthday-gift-flyers-beat-canadiens-game-1-1st-round-nhl-playoffs\">Enjoy that birthday, young man \u2014 Hart leads Flyers to a not-so-easy Game 1 win<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-vs-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-game-1-live-stream-storylines-more\">5 big storylines to watch in Flyers-Canadiens 1st-round series<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-playoff-series-1987-pregame-brawl\">Flyers-Canadiens playoff series reminds us of a brawl that changed hockey<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><\/ul>","summary":"Ice cream and a memory against Carey Price serve as a reminder that Carter Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment. By Jordan Hall<\/p>","format":"filtered_html","safe_value":"When Carey Price was at his most dominant, winning the Vezina Trophy (top goalie) and <\/em>Hart Memorial Trophy (MVP) in 2014-15, Carter Hart was just 16 years old. <\/p>\nThe precocious but innocent kid had just begun molding his game at the junior hockey level with the WHL's Silvertips in Everett, Washington.<\/p>\nPrice was at the sport's pinnacle.<\/p>\n\"He was my favorite goalie growing up,\" Hart said.<\/p>\nOn Wednesday, the night before his 22nd birthday, Hart found himself stretching next to Price at the center-ice line in front of the scorekeepers' bench.<\/p>\nThere was Hart, on the same NHL stage as his idol, facing him in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.<\/p>\nThe NHL postseason is serious business, requiring the utmost competitiveness and focus. Hart, whose youthfulness often belies his maturity, fully understands the beast that is the Stanley Cup Playoffs. But the postseason makes for special moments and memories. NHL players all looked up to someone at some point. For Hart, he allowed himself to appreciate the storyline ahead.<\/p>\n\"Definitely really cool,\" Hart said last Sunday about the upcoming best-of-seven first-round matchup with Price's Canadiens. \"Just had the chance to actually meet him the other week and talk with him for the first time, so that was something pretty cool. For your first playoff series, playing against Carey Price will definitely be a lot of fun; I look forward to it.\"<\/p>\nPrice, who turns 33 years old on Sunday, was unable to spoil the youngster's birthday. By midnight, Hart and the top-seeded Flyers had a 1-0 series lead after earning a hard-fought 2-1 victory over eighth-seeded Montreal. Hart is 3-0-0 with a 1.00 goals-against average and .966 save percentage through three games in the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament.<\/p>\nOn the ice, the Flyers were able to celebrate around Hart after he turned away 27 of 28 shots, with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/carter-hart-early-birthday-gift-flyers-beat-canadiens-game-1-1st-round-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">16 of those saves coming in the second period when the Flyers really needed him<\/a>.<\/p>\nOff the ice, they made sure to celebrate Hart's birthday a little early, making the best of the circumstances in the Eastern Conference's Toronto bubble.<\/p>\n\u201cI think some guys got him some ice cream yesterday after the game and just sang him happy birthday,\" Shayne Gostisbehere said Thursday with a smile. \"He\u2019s been pretty good.\u201d<\/p>\n\u201cLet him do his thing,\u201d Scott Laughton chimed in about Hart.<\/p>\n\u201cYeah, let him do his thing,\" Gostisbehere echoed.<\/p>\nAfter a short and sweet exchange with Price, Hart did his thing in Game 1.<\/p>\n\u201cJust said hello quickly in warmups, good luck and it was just time to go play,\" Hart said.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">When you gotta keep your cool around your idol...and try to beat him in the <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/hashtag\/StanleyCup?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#StanleyCup<\/a> Playoffs! <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/sYU2SYTpR0\">pic.twitter.com\/sYU2SYTpR0<\/a><\/p>— NHL GIFs (@NHLGIFs) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NHLGIFs\/status\/1293708363382087683?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\nIf Hart continues to play the way he has this season and to start the tournament, he could remember the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs for much more than a memorable matchup with Price.<\/p>\nBut there's a kid in everyone. Then again, Hart is only 22 years old.<\/p>\n\"He\u2019s a special kid,\" Derek Grant said last week. \"He\u2019s so calm. He puts his mask on, you don\u2019t know how old he is.\"<\/p>\nWith his mask off, Hart hopefully enjoyed a little ice cream and soaked in the moment.<\/p>\nSports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \nSubscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \n<a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/canadiens-coach-claude-julien-hospitalized-chest-pain\">Canadiens head coach Julien hospitalized with chest pain<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/carter-hart-early-birthday-gift-flyers-beat-canadiens-game-1-1st-round-nhl-playoffs\">Enjoy that birthday, young man \u2014 Hart leads Flyers to a not-so-easy Game 1 win<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-vs-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-game-1-live-stream-storylines-more\">5 big storylines to watch in Flyers-Canadiens 1st-round series<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-playoff-series-1987-pregame-brawl\">Flyers-Canadiens playoff series reminds us of a brawl that changed hockey<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","safe_summary":"Ice cream and a memory against Carey Price serve as a reminder that Carter Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment. By Jordan Hall<\/p>\n"}]},"field_author_reference":{"und":[{"tid":"1056"}]},"field_bean_single_col":{"und":[{"target_id":"3706"}]},"field_chrome_page":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_date_published":{"und":[{"value":"2020-08-14 01:35:00","timezone":"America\/New_York","timezone_db":"UTC","date_type":"datetime"}]},"field_hero_image_credit":{"und":[{"value":"USA Today Images","format":null,"safe_value":"USA Today Images"}]},"field_image":{"und":[{"fid":"2518456","uid":"156","filename":"usa_carter_hart_carey_price.jpg","uri":"public:\/\/2020\/08\/09\/usa_carter_hart_carey_price.jpg","filemime":"image\/jpeg","filesize":"1479459","status":"1","timestamp":"1596989129","origname":"usa_carter_hart_carey_price.jpg","type":"image","field_file_image_alt_text":[],"field_file_image_title_text":[],"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":[],"metadata":{"height":845,"width":1500},"height":"845","width":"1500","alt":null,"title":null}]},"field_league":{"und":[{"tid":"196"}]},"field_section":{"und":[{"tid":"201"}]},"field_short_title":{"und":[{"value":"Ice cream and a memory remind us Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment","format":null,"safe_value":"Ice cream and a memory remind us Hart is just a kid ... but ready for the moment"}]},"field_sponsor":[],"field_sport":{"und":[{"tid":"191"}]},"field_tags":{"und":[{"tid":"34056"},{"tid":"33456"},{"tid":"2576"},{"tid":"10491"},{"tid":"10486"},{"tid":"5411"},{"tid":"466"},{"tid":"506"}]},"field_team":{"und":[{"tid":"141"}]},"field_top_story":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_video_autoplay":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_videos":{"und":[{"target_id":"799051"}]},"field_tags_hide":[],"field_video_automute":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_editorial_category":{"und":[{"value":"columns"}]},"field_allow_lld_domains":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_enable_stanza":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_exclude_from_yahoo":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"robots":{"value":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","noindex":0,"nofollow":0,"noarchive":0,"nosnippet":0,"noodp":0,"noydir":0,"noimageindex":0,"notranslate":0}},"news_keywords":{"value":"Carter Hart, Carey Price, Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens, NHL playoffs, 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Jordan Hall"}}},"path":{"pathauto":"0"},"name":"JHall","picture":"0","data":"b:0;"},"access":true},{"target_id":"820656","entity":{"vid":"869746","uid":"156","title":"Carter Hart provides early birthday gift as Flyers beat Canadiens in Game 1 of 1st-round NHL playoff series","log":"","status":"1","comment":"0","promote":"0","sticky":"0","nid":"820656","type":"article","language":"und","created":"1597277887","changed":"1597339690","tnid":"0","translate":"0","published":"1597287300","revision_timestamp":"1597339690","revision_uid":"156","body":{"und":[{"value":"<a href=\"http:\/\/scores.nbcsportsphiladelphia.com\/nhl\/boxscore.asp?gamecode=2020081215&home=15&vis=10&meta=true\" target=\"_blank\">BOX SCORE<\/a><\/p>Carter Hart will enjoy his birthday.<\/p>The young netminder delivered a big performance Wednesday night to help the Flyers earn a 2-1 win over the Canadiens in Game 1 of their best-of-seven first-round playoff series at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto.<\/p>So far, so good (in fact, really good) for Hart in his first taste of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.<\/p>Jakub Voracek and Joel Farabee scored goals for the top-seeded Flyers, who are off to a 4-0-0 start in the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament and have yet to trail once.<\/p>Over their last 14 games (10 in the regular season, four in tournament), the Flyers are 13-1-0 and have outscored the opposition 52-23 (plus-29 goal differential). The lone loss was to the Bruins, who finished the regular season with an NHL-best 100 points.<\/p>Wednesday was far from a picture-perfect performance but the Flyers did enough to grind it out, which they'll have to do at times against eighth-seeded Montreal.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293739378448244737?s=20<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/PR_NHL\/status\/1293751547961266177?s=20<\/p>\u2022 In the first chapter of the Hart-Carey Price showdown, the youngster got the better of the veteran.<\/p>Hart, who turned 22 years old at midnight, has been so steady early in games. He had to make only five saves in the opening frame but he hasn't allowed a first-period goal in his last seven games.<\/p>He was a life saver with 16 second-period saves and finished with 27 stops on 28 shots.<\/p>Through three games in the tournament, Hart is 3-0-0 with 84 saves on 87 shots. Can't ask for a better start from him. A major positive.<\/p>Price made a save on Scott Laughton that you'll see all over ESPN's SportsCenter and denied 29 shots. The Flyers know he'll be a tough out.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/CanadiensMTL\/status\/1293725591070552065?s=20<\/p>\u2022 After playing well following his jump to the first line in the round-robin finale with Voracek (undisclosed issue) out, Farabee stayed with Claude Giroux and Sean Couturier in Game 1.<\/p>The 20-year-old rookie winger continued his productive response to the opportunity, scoring a massive goal 16 seconds after Shea Weber tied the game at 1-1 in the second period.<\/p>Farabee went to the net, deflected Travis Sanheim's shot and then pounded home the rebound \u2014 so timely given Montreal had totally swung the momentum in its favor, putting the Flyers on their heels.<\/p>Farabee should stay on that line until he gives the Flyers a reason to not keep him there. He has three points (two goals, one assist) over three games in the 24-team tournament.<\/p><blockquote>He\u2019s been great for us,\" Ivan Provorov said postgame in a video interview. \"It\u2019s his first playoffs, but it doesn\u2019t look like it. He has poise, he\u2019s been making plays, he\u2019s been scoring and helping us big time. I think he deserves to play on that line and he contributes a lot. He\u2019s been going, I think he complements Coots and G really well.<\/p><\/blockquote>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293723496527417345?s=20<\/p>\u2022 The Flyers delivered a pair of early positive signs:<\/p>The power play struck on its first opportunity after going 0 for 11 through the three-game round robin. Provorov, who led all NHL defensemen in man advantage goals during the regular season with seven, blasted a shot from the point and Voracek must have just gotten a piece of it to hand the Flyers a 1-0 advantage.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/PR_NHL\/status\/1293755483740876802?s=20<\/p>The other positive was the ingredients to the goal. The Flyers went with a double screen on Price. Impeding the Montreal netminder's vision will be critical and the Flyers hammered home that point with Couturier and Voracek disrupting.<\/p>Not only is it an effective approach but it can also frustrate Price, who does not like being bumped or obstructed.<\/p>The power play finished 1 for 3 and missed out on a chance to provide insurance in the third period. It didn't cost the Flyers.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293706640999485442?s=20<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293710590108749827?s=20<\/p>\u2022 The second period was troubling for the Flyers. They got a taste of their own medicine. Typically, the Flyers are a team that wants to wear down the opposition with its effort and north-south style. The Flyers are not the fastest team, but the way in which they play makes them tough to play against, which was a huge initiative entering their turnaround season.<\/p>Montreal completely took it to them in the middle stanza. At one point, the Flyers were pinned in their own end and had three failed attempts to clear the puck.<\/p>Leading up to the series opener, Flyers head coach Alain Vigneault warned that Montreal seldom slows down in its pace or energy, which can sneak up on teams if you let it.<\/p>\"That\u2019s a team with real good team speed, there\u2019s no doubt that they work extremely hard,\" Vigneault said in a video interview before the game. \"Those two areas, watching the four games in that Pittsburgh series, caught everybody\u2019s attention. They were extremely quick and extremely hard-working.\"<\/p>Fortunately for the Flyers, Hart was strong and Farabee made his heads up play, allowing the Flyers to leave the second period with a 2-1 edge.<\/p>\u2022 Vigneault gave the Game 1 nod to Shayne Gostisbehere over Robert Hagg, who was the extra defenseman. Gostisbehere truly won his spot in the lineup with impressive work during camp, the exhibition game and one round-robin game.<\/p>He wasn't as impactful against the Canadiens as he was in the 4-1 round-robin win over the Lightning and looked a little shaky in the second period, but so did the Flyers as a whole. Gostisbehere didn't play a ton later in the third period as the Flyers shortened things up.<\/p>Not sure that's enough to sit him in Game 2 but the battle for the lineup will truly be a game-to-game situation. The playoffs are a game-to-game business.<\/p>\u2022 James van Riemsdyk was on the fourth line and played 11:40.<\/p>Nate Thompson, the former Canadien who centers the fourth line, missed a wide-open net late in the third period.<\/p>Overall, the Flyers didn't receive the depth efforts they got throughout the round robin, but the club's role players weren't awful, either.<\/p>The Flyers had a so-so game in general.<\/p>\u2022 The series continues Friday with Game 2 at 3 p.m. ET on NBCSP.<\/p>For the full series schedule, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-schedule-2020-nhl-playoffs-dates-game-times-broadcast-information\" target=\"_blank\">click here<\/a>.<\/p>The Flyers practice Thursday at 1 p.m. ET at the Ford Performance Centre.<\/p>Sports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p>Subscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p><a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p><h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3><ul><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-vs-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-game-1-live-stream-storylines-more\">5 big storylines to watch in Flyers-Canadiens 1st-round series<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-playoff-series-1987-pregame-brawl\">Flyers-Canadiens playoff series reminds us of a brawl that changed hockey<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-canadiens-hype-video-epic-movie-trailer\">Flyers vs. Canadiens hype video or epic movie trailer? You decide<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-first-round-flyers-canadiens-remembering-mike-richards-shift\">There\u2019s no better way to get ready for Flyers-Canadiens than \u2018The Shift\u2019<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/b><\/p><\/li><\/ul>","summary":"On the night before his 22nd birthday, Carter Hart was very good when the Flyers weren't at their best but still picked up a 2-1 win Wednesday in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series with the Canadiens. By Jordan Hall<\/p>","format":"filtered_html","safe_value":"<a href=\"http:\/\/scores.nbcsportsphiladelphia.com\/nhl\/boxscore.asp?gamecode=2020081215&home=15&vis=10&meta=true\" target=\"_blank\">BOX SCORE<\/a><\/p>\nCarter Hart will enjoy his birthday.<\/p>\nThe young netminder delivered a big performance Wednesday night to help the Flyers earn a 2-1 win over the Canadiens in Game 1 of their best-of-seven first-round playoff series at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto.<\/p>\nSo far, so good (in fact, really good) for Hart in his first taste of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.<\/p>\nJakub Voracek and Joel Farabee scored goals for the top-seeded Flyers, who are off to a 4-0-0 start in the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament and have yet to trail once.<\/p>\nOver their last 14 games (10 in the regular season, four in tournament), the Flyers are 13-1-0 and have outscored the opposition 52-23 (plus-29 goal differential). The lone loss was to the Bruins, who finished the regular season with an NHL-best 100 points.<\/p>\nWednesday was far from a picture-perfect performance but the Flyers did enough to grind it out, which they'll have to do at times against eighth-seeded Montreal.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">One down. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/EZJISrb9yv\">pic.twitter.com\/EZJISrb9yv<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293739378448244737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n <blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NHLFlyers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@NHLFlyers<\/a> won each of their first 4+ games in a postseason for the sixth time in franchise history. The other instances: 1974 (6-0) 1975 (7-0) 1978 (4-0) 1980 (6-0) 1985 (6-0)<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/hashtag\/NHLStats?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#NHLStats<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/hashtag\/StanleyCup?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#StanleyCup<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/TLjmJMp69H\">pic.twitter.com\/TLjmJMp69H<\/a><\/p>— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/PR_NHL\/status\/1293751547961266177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 In the first chapter of the Hart-Carey Price showdown, the youngster got the better of the veteran.<\/p>\nHart, who turned 22 years old at midnight, has been so steady early in games. He had to make only five saves in the opening frame but he hasn't allowed a first-period goal in his last seven games.<\/p>\nHe was a life saver with 16 second-period saves and finished with 27 stops on 28 shots.<\/p>\nThrough three games in the tournament, Hart is 3-0-0 with 84 saves on 87 shots. Can't ask for a better start from him. A major positive.<\/p>\nPrice made a save on Scott Laughton that you'll see all over ESPN's SportsCenter and denied 29 shots. The Flyers know he'll be a tough out.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">GOOD STICK CAREY \ud83e\udd2f<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/hashtag\/GoHabsGo?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#GoHabsGo<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/0apkZbtYbM\">pic.twitter.com\/0apkZbtYbM<\/a><\/p>— Canadiens Montr\u00e9al (@CanadiensMTL) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/CanadiensMTL\/status\/1293725591070552065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 After playing well following his jump to the first line in the round-robin finale with Voracek (undisclosed issue) out, Farabee stayed with Claude Giroux and Sean Couturier in Game 1.<\/p>\nThe 20-year-old rookie winger continued his productive response to the opportunity, scoring a massive goal 16 seconds after Shea Weber tied the game at 1-1 in the second period.<\/p>\nFarabee went to the net, deflected Travis Sanheim's shot and then pounded home the rebound \u2014 so timely given Montreal had totally swung the momentum in its favor, putting the Flyers on their heels.<\/p>\nFarabee should stay on that line until he gives the Flyers a reason to not keep him there. He has three points (two goals, one assist) over three games in the 24-team tournament.<\/p>\n<blockquote>He\u2019s been great for us,\" Ivan Provorov said postgame in a video interview. \"It\u2019s his first playoffs, but it doesn\u2019t look like it. He has poise, he\u2019s been making plays, he\u2019s been scoring and helping us big time. I think he deserves to play on that line and he contributes a lot. He\u2019s been going, I think he complements Coots and G really well.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">THAT \ud83d\udc4f WAS \ud83d\udc4f FAST \ud83d\udc4f Joel Farabee gets one back, Flyers lead 2-1. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/dQoNPUNoZ9\">pic.twitter.com\/dQoNPUNoZ9<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293723496527417345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 The Flyers delivered a pair of early positive signs:<\/p>\nThe power play struck on its first opportunity after going 0 for 11 through the three-game round robin. Provorov, who led all NHL defensemen in man advantage goals during the regular season with seven, blasted a shot from the point and Voracek must have just gotten a piece of it to hand the Flyers a 1-0 advantage.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">OFFICIAL SCORING CHANGE: Playoff Game 111<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/CanadiensMTL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@CanadiensMTL<\/a> at <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NHLFlyers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@NHLFlyers<\/a> Goal at 8:54 of first period now reads Jakub Voracek from Ivan Provorov and Claude Giroux. <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/hashtag\/NHLStats?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#NHLStats<\/a><\/p>— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/PR_NHL\/status\/1293755483740876802?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\nThe other positive was the ingredients to the goal. The Flyers went with a double screen on Price. Impeding the Montreal netminder's vision will be critical and the Flyers hammered home that point with Couturier and Voracek disrupting.<\/p>\nNot only is it an effective approach but it can also frustrate Price, who does not like being bumped or obstructed.<\/p>\nThe power play finished 1 for 3 and missed out on a chance to provide insurance in the third period. It didn't cost the Flyers.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Goal, scored. Lead, gained. Flyers up, 1-0. | <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/HerrsSnacks?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@HerrsSnacks<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/u4vkkFtwM0\">pic.twitter.com\/u4vkkFtwM0<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293706640999485442?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n <blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Carey Price was not happy about this. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/bhNYS8nIem\">pic.twitter.com\/bhNYS8nIem<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1293710590108749827?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 13, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 The second period was troubling for the Flyers. They got a taste of their own medicine. Typically, the Flyers are a team that wants to wear down the opposition with its effort and north-south style. The Flyers are not the fastest team, but the way in which they play makes them tough to play against, which was a huge initiative entering their turnaround season.<\/p>\nMontreal completely took it to them in the middle stanza. At one point, the Flyers were pinned in their own end and had three failed attempts to clear the puck.<\/p>\nLeading up to the series opener, Flyers head coach Alain Vigneault warned that Montreal seldom slows down in its pace or energy, which can sneak up on teams if you let it.<\/p>\n\"That\u2019s a team with real good team speed, there\u2019s no doubt that they work extremely hard,\" Vigneault said in a video interview before the game. \"Those two areas, watching the four games in that Pittsburgh series, caught everybody\u2019s attention. They were extremely quick and extremely hard-working.\"<\/p>\nFortunately for the Flyers, Hart was strong and Farabee made his heads up play, allowing the Flyers to leave the second period with a 2-1 edge.<\/p>\n\u2022 Vigneault gave the Game 1 nod to Shayne Gostisbehere over Robert Hagg, who was the extra defenseman. Gostisbehere truly won his spot in the lineup with impressive work during camp, the exhibition game and one round-robin game.<\/p>\nHe wasn't as impactful against the Canadiens as he was in the 4-1 round-robin win over the Lightning and looked a little shaky in the second period, but so did the Flyers as a whole. Gostisbehere didn't play a ton later in the third period as the Flyers shortened things up.<\/p>\nNot sure that's enough to sit him in Game 2 but the battle for the lineup will truly be a game-to-game situation. The playoffs are a game-to-game business.<\/p>\n\u2022 James van Riemsdyk was on the fourth line and played 11:40.<\/p>\nNate Thompson, the former Canadien who centers the fourth line, missed a wide-open net late in the third period.<\/p>\nOverall, the Flyers didn't receive the depth efforts they got throughout the round robin, but the club's role players weren't awful, either.<\/p>\nThe Flyers had a so-so game in general.<\/p>\n\u2022 The series continues Friday with Game 2 at 3 p.m. ET on NBCSP.<\/p>\nFor the full series schedule, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-schedule-2020-nhl-playoffs-dates-game-times-broadcast-information\" target=\"_blank\">click here<\/a>.<\/p>\nThe Flyers practice Thursday at 1 p.m. ET at the Ford Performance Centre.<\/p>\nSports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \nSubscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/23774663-45d5-49a1-b66a-aebc63d653fa\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \n<a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\">More on the Flyers<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-vs-canadiens-nhl-playoffs-game-1-live-stream-storylines-more\">5 big storylines to watch in Flyers-Canadiens 1st-round series<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-playoff-series-1987-pregame-brawl\">Flyers-Canadiens playoff series reminds us of a brawl that changed hockey<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-canadiens-hype-video-epic-movie-trailer\">Flyers vs. Canadiens hype video or epic movie trailer? You decide<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-first-round-flyers-canadiens-remembering-mike-richards-shift\">There\u2019s no better way to get ready for Flyers-Canadiens than \u2018The Shift\u2019<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-presence-comeback-flyers-2020-nhl-playoffs\">The meaning of Lindblom's presence and comeback to Flyers<\/a><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","safe_summary":"On the night before his 22nd birthday, Carter Hart was very good when the Flyers weren't at their best but still picked up a 2-1 win Wednesday in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series with the Canadiens. By Jordan Hall<\/p>\n"}]},"field_author_reference":{"und":[{"tid":"1056"}]},"field_bean_single_col":{"und":[{"target_id":"3706"}]},"field_chrome_page":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_date_published":{"und":[{"value":"2020-08-13 02:55:00","timezone":"America\/New_York","timezone_db":"UTC","date_type":"datetime"}]},"field_hero_image_credit":{"und":[{"value":"USA Today Images\/Dan Hamilton","format":null,"safe_value":"USA Today Images\/Dan Hamilton"}]},"field_image":{"und":[{"fid":"2525916","uid":"156","filename":"usa_carter_hart_joel_farabee.jpg","uri":"public:\/\/2020\/08\/12\/usa_carter_hart_joel_farabee.jpg","filemime":"image\/jpeg","filesize":"1077025","status":"1","timestamp":"1597291975","origname":"usa_carter_hart_2.jpg","type":"image","field_file_image_alt_text":[],"field_file_image_title_text":[],"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"title":{"value":"[current-page:title] | [current-page:pager][site:name]","default":"[current-page:title] | [current-page:pager][site:name]"},"description":{"value":"NBC Sports Philadelphia, your source for all Phillies, Eagles, Sixers and Flyers news, updates and more!","default":"NBC Sports Philadelphia, your source for all Phillies, Eagles, Sixers and Flyers news, updates and 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that birthday, young man \u2014 Hart leads Flyers to a not-so-easy Game 1 win","format":null,"safe_value":"Enjoy that birthday, young man \u2014 Hart leads Flyers to a not-so-easy Game 1 win"}]},"field_sponsor":[],"field_sport":{"und":[{"tid":"191"}]},"field_tags":{"und":[{"tid":"34056"},{"tid":"22636"},{"tid":"33456"},{"tid":"2576"},{"tid":"10491"},{"tid":"466"},{"tid":"506"}]},"field_team":{"und":[{"tid":"141"}]},"field_top_story":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_video_autoplay":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_videos":{"und":[{"target_id":"820706"}]},"field_tags_hide":[],"field_video_automute":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_editorial_category":{"und":[{"value":"analysis"}]},"field_allow_lld_domains":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_enable_stanza":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_exclude_from_yahoo":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"robots":{"value":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","noindex":0,"nofollow":0,"noarchive":0,"nosnippet":0,"noodp":0,"noydir":0,"noimageindex":0,"notranslate":0}},"news_keywords":{"value":"Flyers observations, Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens, Jordan Hall, NHL playoffs, 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs"}}},"path":{"pathauto":"0"},"name":"JHall","picture":"0","data":"b:0;"},"access":true},{"target_id":"819906","entity":{"vid":"868996","uid":"156","title":"Flyers-Canadiens schedule for 2020 NHL playoffs: Dates, game times, broadcast information","log":"","status":"1","comment":"0","promote":"0","sticky":"0","nid":"819906","type":"article","language":"und","created":"1597072222","changed":"1597111145","tnid":"0","translate":"0","published":"1597074600","revision_timestamp":"1597111145","revision_uid":"156","body":{"und":[{"value":"After sweeping the round robin to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-beat-lightning-sweep-round-robin-no-1-seed-2020-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">earn the Eastern Conference's No. 1 seed<\/a>, the Flyers on Wednesday will begin what they hope is a long and prosperous run through the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs.<\/p>Wednesday marks Game 1 of the Flyers' best-of-seven first-round series against the 12th-seeded (or the new eighth-seeded) Canadiens, who upset the Penguins in the best-of-five qualifying round.<\/p>As the higher seed, the Flyers are the home team for the first two games, as well as Games 5 and 7, if necessary. With no fans, the home-away distinction still holds importance because home teams are awarded the last line change in games, which can be critical to matchups when outcomes are in the balance.<\/p>For Game 3 on the national broadcast, NBC Sports Philadephia will still hold Flyers Pregame Live and Postgame Live shows with analysis and interviews. That will be the case for any games on the national broadcast.<\/p>Another thing to note is the potential back-to-back scenario with Games 4 and 5. Carter Hart played only once on no days rest during the regular season and it was in relief duty. Canadiens veteran goaltender Carey Price, who turns 33 years old on Sunday, played on no days rest four times, going 0-2-2 with a 3.76 goals-against average and .864 save percentage.<\/p>The Flyers went 2-1-0 against Montreal in the regular season, with a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-keep-late-fun-coming-thanks-overtime-win-canadiens-company-2011-12-team\" target=\"_blank\">3-2 overtime win Nov. 7<\/a>, a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-cap-special-november-enter-december-most-points-eric-lindros-led-1995-96-team\" target=\"_blank\">4-3 overtime victory Nov. 30<\/a> and a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-upended-canadiens-type-of-loss-always-seems-anger-fans\" target=\"_blank\">4-1 loss Jan. 16<\/a>.<\/p>Below is the full Flyers-Canadiens first-round schedule:<\/p>Game 1<\/strong> \u2014 Wednesday, Aug. 12, 8 p.m. ET, NBCSP Game 2<\/strong> \u2014 Friday, Aug. 14, 3 p.m. ET, NBCSP Game 3<\/strong> \u2014 Sunday, Aug. 16, 8 p.m. ET, NBC Game 4<\/strong> \u2014 Tuesday, Aug. 18, 3 p.m. ET, NBCSP Game 5<\/strong> \u2014 Wednesday, Aug. 19, TBD, TBD Game 6<\/strong> \u2014 Friday, Aug. 21, TBD, TBD Game 7<\/strong> \u2014 Sunday, Aug. 23, TBD, TBD<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1293003719961915393?s=20<\/p>Below are the schedules for the other seven first-round series:<\/p><h2>Eastern Conference<\/strong><\/h2>[[{\"fid\":\"2520491\",\"view_mode\":\"default\",\"fields\":{\"format\":\"default\",\"field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]\":false,\"field_file_image_title_text[und][0][value]\":false},\"type\":\"media\",\"field_deltas\":{\"1\":{\"format\":\"default\",\"field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]\":false,\"field_file_image_title_text[und][0][value]\":false}},\"attributes\":{\"class\":\"media-element file-default\",\"data-delta\":\"1\"}}]]<\/p><h2>Western Conference<\/strong><\/h2>[[{\"fid\":\"2520501\",\"view_mode\":\"default\",\"fields\":{\"format\":\"default\",\"field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]\":false,\"field_file_image_title_text[und][0][value]\":false},\"type\":\"media\",\"field_deltas\":{\"2\":{\"format\":\"default\",\"field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]\":false,\"field_file_image_title_text[und][0][value]\":false}},\"attributes\":{\"class\":\"media-element file-default\",\"data-delta\":\"2\"}}]]<\/p>Sports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p>Subscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/c143960b-2aaf-420e-a2b2-cc53dce8aba7\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p><a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p><h3 dir=\"ltr\">More Flyers analysis for playoffs<\/strong><\/h3>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-stanley-cup-odds-flyers-golden-knights-draftkings-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Cup crazy? East's top-seeded Flyers have great odds<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-beat-lightning-sweep-round-robin-no-1-seed-2020-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">How sweep it is \u2014 Flyers run through round robin, earn East's No. 1 seed<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-out-james-van-riemsdyk-back-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs-round-robin-lightning\" target=\"_blank\">Voracek out, JVR back after interesting scratch and more Flyers changes<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dont-expect-flyers-be-mingling-rivals-hotel-x-toronto-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Don't expect the Flyers to be mingling with their rivals at Hotel X Toronto<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Costly injury comes at interesting time, creates more decisions for Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p><section id=\"carousel-wrapper\">\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-team-hot-streak-round-robin\" target=\"_blank\">The Flyers were never on a hot streak \u2014 they're just that good<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-stanley-cup-predictions\" target=\"_blank\">Can the Flyers go all the way? Our Stanley Cup predictions are here<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/picture-collage-and-signs-show-love-flyers-they-eye-stanley-cup-run-toronto\" target=\"_blank\">Picture collage and signs show love for Flyers as they eye Cup run in Toronto<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/sean-couturier-nhl-playoffs-bubble-stanley-cup-item-baby-book\" target=\"_blank\">Couturier's goals in NHL bubble: Stanley Cup and an important baby book item<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-shirts\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers announce playoff roster, have fans going crazy over shirts<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-stanley-cup-odds-flyers-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">All types of Flyers odds (including the Cup) in NHL's 24-team tourney<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dave-scott-couldnt-be-happier-flyers-chuck-fletcher-theres-more-action-be-done\" target=\"_blank\">Scott 'couldn't be happier' with Flyers, but there's more action to be done<\/a><\/strong><\/p><\/section>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-flyers-contract-signed-extension\" target=\"_blank\">Lindblom has new contract, his comeback is on with Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-canadiens-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_self\">Flyers-Canadiens is perfect on paper, but would it be a trap?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-explains-absence-flyers-training-camp-scrimmage\" target=\"_blank\">What happened? Voracek says calm down, he's fine ... now you know<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <\/b><\/font><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-shirts-sale-fans\" target=\"_blank\">Fans can purchase Flyers playoff shirts with new slogan<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-training-camp-day-1-different-times\" target=\"_blank\">What it was like to go back to work at Flyers practice in different times<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-odds-24-team-tournament-season\" target=\"_blank\">5 questions on Flyers' chances in 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/predictions-flyers-lineup-nhl-24-team-stanley-cup-playoffs-plan-return-coronavirus-suspension\" target=\"_blank\">Predictions for Flyers' best Game 1 lineup to start 24-team playoff<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-top-5-reinforcements\" target=\"_blank\">Who are the Flyers' top 5 reinforcements for 24-team tournament?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/brian-elliott-has-sweet-new-goalie-mask-flyers-nhl-playoffs-run\" target=\"_blank\">Elliott has sweet new mask for Flyers' playoff run<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-sign-mark-friedman-2-year-contract-extension\" target=\"_self\">Flyers sign a player to extension at position of strength<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-nhl-nhlpa-ratify-return-to-play-cba-schedule\" target=\"_blank\">What to know as NHL, NHLPA finish big step, announce schedule<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-free-agency-justin-braun-derek-grant-flyers\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers have two top 50 pending UFAs; will they re-sign them?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-2020-format-details-plan-stanley-cup-24-team-tournament\" target=\"_blank\">Everything Flyers fans need to know for NHL's 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/gary-bettman-flyers-mascot-gritty-cant-be-toronto-bubble-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Bettman gives Gritty the hard truth for why he can't be in Toronto bubble<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-key-dates-coronavirus-testing-protocols-return-to-play\" target=\"_blank\">Key dates, protocols announced as Flyers return<\/a><\/strong><\/p>","summary":"A look at the Flyers-Canadiens schedule for the first round of the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs. By Jordan Hall<\/p>","format":"filtered_html","safe_value":"After sweeping the round robin to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-beat-lightning-sweep-round-robin-no-1-seed-2020-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">earn the Eastern Conference's No. 1 seed<\/a>, the Flyers on Wednesday will begin what they hope is a long and prosperous run through the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs.<\/p>\nWednesday marks Game 1 of the Flyers' best-of-seven first-round series against the 12th-seeded (or the new eighth-seeded) Canadiens, who upset the Penguins in the best-of-five qualifying round.<\/p>\nAs the higher seed, the Flyers are the home team for the first two games, as well as Games 5 and 7, if necessary. With no fans, the home-away distinction still holds importance because home teams are awarded the last line change in games, which can be critical to matchups when outcomes are in the balance.<\/p>\nFor Game 3 on the national broadcast, NBC Sports Philadephia will still hold Flyers Pregame Live and Postgame Live shows with analysis and interviews. That will be the case for any games on the national broadcast.<\/p>\nAnother thing to note is the potential back-to-back scenario with Games 4 and 5. Carter Hart played only once on no days rest during the regular season and it was in relief duty. Canadiens veteran goaltender Carey Price, who turns 33 years old on Sunday, played on no days rest four times, going 0-2-2 with a 3.76 goals-against average and .864 save percentage.<\/p>\nThe Flyers went 2-1-0 against Montreal in the regular season, with a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-keep-late-fun-coming-thanks-overtime-win-canadiens-company-2011-12-team\" target=\"_blank\">3-2 overtime win Nov. 7<\/a>, a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-cap-special-november-enter-december-most-points-eric-lindros-led-1995-96-team\" target=\"_blank\">4-3 overtime victory Nov. 30<\/a> and a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-upended-canadiens-type-of-loss-always-seems-anger-fans\" target=\"_blank\">4-1 loss Jan. 16<\/a>.<\/p>\nBelow is the full Flyers-Canadiens first-round schedule:<\/p>\nGame 1<\/strong> \u2014 Wednesday, Aug. 12, 8 p.m. ET, NBCSP Game 2<\/strong> \u2014 Friday, Aug. 14, 3 p.m. ET, NBCSP Game 3<\/strong> \u2014 Sunday, Aug. 16, 8 p.m. ET, NBC Game 4<\/strong> \u2014 Tuesday, Aug. 18, 3 p.m. ET, NBCSP Game 5<\/strong> \u2014 Wednesday, Aug. 19, TBD, TBD Game 6<\/strong> \u2014 Friday, Aug. 21, TBD, TBD Game 7<\/strong> \u2014 Sunday, Aug. 23, TBD, TBD<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Including round robin and regular season, Flyers are 17-6-3 vs. seven remaining teams in East playoff field: 2. Lightning \u2014 1-2-0 3. Capitals \u2014 4-0-1 4. Bruins \u2014 3-1-0 5. Hurricanes \u2014 3-0-1 6. Islanders \u2014 0-2-1 7. Blue Jackets \u2014 4-0-0 8. Canadiens \u2014 2-1-0<\/p>— Jordan Hall (@JHallNBCS) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1293003719961915393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 11, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\nBelow are the schedules for the other seven first-round series:<\/p>\n<h2>Eastern Conference<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div class=\"media media-element-container media-default\"><div id=\"file-2520491--54\" class=\"file file-image file-image-jpeg\">\r\n\r\n <h2 class=\"element-invisible\"><a href=\"\/files\/eastjpg\">east.jpg<\/a><\/h2>\r\n \r\n \r\n <div class=\"content\">\r\n <img class=\"media-element file-default\" data-delta=\"1\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/sites\/csnphilly\/files\/east.jpg\" width=\"1401\" height=\"817\" alt=\"\" \/> <\/div>\r\n\r\n \r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div><\/p>\n<h2>Western Conference<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div class=\"media media-element-container media-default\"><div id=\"file-2520501--54\" class=\"file file-image file-image-jpeg\">\r\n\r\n <h2 class=\"element-invisible\"><a href=\"\/files\/westjpg\">west.jpg<\/a><\/h2>\r\n \r\n \r\n <div class=\"content\">\r\n <img class=\"media-element file-default\" data-delta=\"2\" src=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/sites\/csnphilly\/files\/west.jpg\" width=\"1416\" height=\"1083\" alt=\"\" \/> <\/div>\r\n\r\n \r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div><\/p>\nSports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \nSubscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/c143960b-2aaf-420e-a2b2-cc53dce8aba7\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \n<a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\">More Flyers analysis for playoffs<\/strong><\/h3>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-stanley-cup-odds-flyers-golden-knights-draftkings-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Cup crazy? East's top-seeded Flyers have great odds<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-beat-lightning-sweep-round-robin-no-1-seed-2020-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">How sweep it is \u2014 Flyers run through round robin, earn East's No. 1 seed<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-out-james-van-riemsdyk-back-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs-round-robin-lightning\" target=\"_blank\">Voracek out, JVR back after interesting scratch and more Flyers changes<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dont-expect-flyers-be-mingling-rivals-hotel-x-toronto-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Don't expect the Flyers to be mingling with their rivals at Hotel X Toronto<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Costly injury comes at interesting time, creates more decisions for Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-team-hot-streak-round-robin\" target=\"_blank\">The Flyers were never on a hot streak \u2014 they're just that good<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-stanley-cup-predictions\" target=\"_blank\">Can the Flyers go all the way? Our Stanley Cup predictions are here<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/picture-collage-and-signs-show-love-flyers-they-eye-stanley-cup-run-toronto\" target=\"_blank\">Picture collage and signs show love for Flyers as they eye Cup run in Toronto<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/sean-couturier-nhl-playoffs-bubble-stanley-cup-item-baby-book\" target=\"_blank\">Couturier's goals in NHL bubble: Stanley Cup and an important baby book item<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-shirts\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers announce playoff roster, have fans going crazy over shirts<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-stanley-cup-odds-flyers-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">All types of Flyers odds (including the Cup) in NHL's 24-team tourney<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dave-scott-couldnt-be-happier-flyers-chuck-fletcher-theres-more-action-be-done\" target=\"_blank\">Scott 'couldn't be happier' with Flyers, but there's more action to be done<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-flyers-contract-signed-extension\" target=\"_blank\">Lindblom has new contract, his comeback is on with Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-canadiens-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_self\">Flyers-Canadiens is perfect on paper, but would it be a trap?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-explains-absence-flyers-training-camp-scrimmage\" target=\"_blank\">What happened? Voracek says calm down, he's fine ... now you know<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-shirts-sale-fans\" target=\"_blank\">Fans can purchase Flyers playoff shirts with new slogan<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-training-camp-day-1-different-times\" target=\"_blank\">What it was like to go back to work at Flyers practice in different times<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-odds-24-team-tournament-season\" target=\"_blank\">5 questions on Flyers' chances in 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/predictions-flyers-lineup-nhl-24-team-stanley-cup-playoffs-plan-return-coronavirus-suspension\" target=\"_blank\">Predictions for Flyers' best Game 1 lineup to start 24-team playoff<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-top-5-reinforcements\" target=\"_blank\">Who are the Flyers' top 5 reinforcements for 24-team tournament?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/brian-elliott-has-sweet-new-goalie-mask-flyers-nhl-playoffs-run\" target=\"_blank\">Elliott has sweet new mask for Flyers' playoff run<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-sign-mark-friedman-2-year-contract-extension\" target=\"_self\">Flyers sign a player to extension at position of strength<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-nhl-nhlpa-ratify-return-to-play-cba-schedule\" target=\"_blank\">What to know as NHL, NHLPA finish big step, announce schedule<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-free-agency-justin-braun-derek-grant-flyers\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers have two top 50 pending UFAs; will they re-sign them?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-2020-format-details-plan-stanley-cup-24-team-tournament\" target=\"_blank\">Everything Flyers fans need to know for NHL's 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/gary-bettman-flyers-mascot-gritty-cant-be-toronto-bubble-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Bettman gives Gritty the hard truth for why he can't be in Toronto bubble<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-key-dates-coronavirus-testing-protocols-return-to-play\" target=\"_blank\">Key dates, protocols announced as Flyers return<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n","safe_summary":"A look at the Flyers-Canadiens schedule for the first round of the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs. By Jordan Hall<\/p>\n"}]},"field_author_reference":{"und":[{"tid":"1056"}]},"field_bean_single_col":{"und":[{"target_id":"3706"}]},"field_chrome_page":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_date_published":{"und":[{"value":"2020-08-10 15:50:00","timezone":"America\/New_York","timezone_db":"UTC","date_type":"datetime"}]},"field_hero_image_credit":{"und":[{"value":"USA Today Images","format":null,"safe_value":"USA Today Images"}]},"field_image":{"und":[{"fid":"2520481","uid":"156","filename":"usa_carter_hart_carey_price_flyers_canadiens.jpg","uri":"public:\/\/2020\/08\/10\/usa_carter_hart_carey_price_flyers_canadiens.jpg","filemime":"image\/jpeg","filesize":"1498563","status":"1","timestamp":"1597071978","origname":"usa_carter_hart_carey_price_flyers_canadiens.jpg","type":"image","field_file_image_alt_text":[],"field_file_image_title_text":[],"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":[],"metadata":{"height":845,"width":1500},"height":"845","width":"1500","alt":null,"title":null}]},"field_league":{"und":[{"tid":"196"}]},"field_section":{"und":[{"tid":"201"}]},"field_short_title":{"und":[{"value":"A look at Flyers-Canadiens schedule with different aspects to note","format":null,"safe_value":"A look at Flyers-Canadiens schedule with different aspects to note"}]},"field_sponsor":[],"field_sport":{"und":[{"tid":"191"}]},"field_tags":{"und":[{"tid":"34056"},{"tid":"10491"},{"tid":"33456"},{"tid":"2576"},{"tid":"27086"},{"tid":"466"},{"tid":"506"}]},"field_team":{"und":[{"tid":"141"}]},"field_top_story":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_video_autoplay":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_videos":{"und":[{"target_id":"819581"}]},"field_tags_hide":[],"field_video_automute":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_editorial_category":{"und":[{"value":"analysis"}]},"field_allow_lld_domains":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_enable_stanza":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"field_exclude_from_yahoo":{"und":[{"value":"1"}]},"_drafty_revision_requested":"FIELD_LOAD_CURRENT","metatags":{"und":{"robots":{"value":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","noindex":0,"nofollow":0,"noarchive":0,"nosnippet":0,"noodp":0,"noydir":0,"noimageindex":0,"notranslate":0}},"news_keywords":{"value":"Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens, NHL playoffs schedule, Flyers-Canadiens schedule, Jordan Hall"}}},"path":{"pathauto":"1"},"name":"JHall","picture":"0","data":"b:0;"},"access":true},{"target_id":"819521","entity":{"vid":"868601","uid":"156","title":"Flyers sweep round robin, earn East's No. 1 seed in 2020 NHL playoffs","log":"","status":"1","comment":"0","promote":"0","sticky":"0","nid":"819521","type":"article","language":"und","created":"1596931637","changed":"1597091184","tnid":"0","translate":"0","published":"1596942000","revision_timestamp":"1597091184","revision_uid":"156","body":{"und":[{"value":"<a href=\"http:\/\/scores.nbcsportsphiladelphia.com\/nhl\/boxscore.asp?gamecode=2020080920&home=20&vis=15\" target=\"_blank\">BOX SCORE<\/a><\/p>Heading into the first round of the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs, everyone is looking up at the Flyers.<\/p>For the first time since 2000, the Flyers will be the Eastern Conference's No. 1 seed in the postseason after winning the round robin of the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament.<\/p>They punctuated their climb Saturday night with a 4-1 win over the Lightning at Scotiabank Arena in the Eastern Conference's hub city Toronto.<\/p>Nicolas Aube-Kubel had a big game with two goals, while Joel Farabee and Tyler Pitlick tallied markers, as well.<\/p>After going 3-0-0 through the round robin, the top-seeded Flyers will face the 12th-seeded Canadiens in the first round of the playoffs.<\/p>Back in 2000, the year of the Flyers' five-overtime playoff classic with the Penguins, the team lost the Eastern Conference Final to the eventual champion Devils in seven games.<\/p>Twenty years later, it's the No. 1 seed again.<\/p>\"We're excited here,\" Farabee said postgame in a video interview. \"We're ready to go dancing.\"<\/p>\u2022 Just how impressive were the Flyers in the round robin? They swept the Bruins, Capitals and Lightning by a combined score of 11-3.<\/p>Pretty darn good tune-up for the Flyers as the real deal begins next week. They've always been a confident team, particularly from January on, but this was a measuring-stick round-robin tourney and they turned heads.<\/p>The Capitals and Bruins finish the round robin Sunday (noon ET).<\/p>1. Flyers<\/strong> \u2014 3-0-0, six points 2. Lightning<\/strong> \u2014 2-1-0, four points 3. Capitals<\/strong> \u2014 0-1-1, one point 4. Bruins<\/strong> \u2014 0-2-0, zero points<\/p>\u2022 NBC Sports analyst Keith Jones mentioned at intermission how the Flyers come at their opponents in waves. Their depth was excellent through the round robin and will be arguably their biggest difference-maker in a playoff run.<\/p>In the round robin, Claude Giroux went scoreless, James van Riemsdyk went scoreless in two games, Jakub Voracek had an assist in two games, Sean Couturier had a few assists, Travis Konecny (two assists) didn't have to score a goal, Kevin Hayes (four assists) didn't have to score a goal, and the Flyers convincingly earned the No. 1 seed.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1292319384468422657?s=20<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1292470200185626625?s=20<\/p>\u2022 Carter Hart, who turns 22 years old next Thursday, looks primed for the first round.<\/p>The Bruins had an NHL-most 100 points during the regular season. The Lightning scored an NHL-best 3.47 goals per game. Hart totaled 57 saves on 59 shots in matchups with those clubs.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1292300577523863553?s=20<\/p>\u2022 In 2018-19, Aube-Kubel got his first taste of the NHL ... hardly. Called up from AHL affiliate Lehigh Valley, Aube-Kubel went scoreless in a nine-game stint with the big club, playing only 5:35 minutes per night.<\/p>\u201cIt\u2019s pretty hard, especially when you spend some 15 minutes without playing, 10 minutes without playing, so it\u2019s really hard for the legs,\" Aube-Kubel said in February about the limited minutes last season. \"When you\u2019re out there, you\u2019re just so stressed about not making a mistake that you don\u2019t really show anything.<\/p>\u201cLast year, I didn\u2019t really get a good chance to show what I could do. I\u2019m glad this year \u2026 even in my first game, I got put in a good situation with good players and it worked out for me.\u201d<\/p>In 2019-20, the Flyers eventually summoned Aube-Kubel in mid-December. The new coaching staff has done a solid job of giving him opportunity but also constantly keeping him motivated. It's resulted in a hungry, hard-working, forechecking winger who gave the Flyers a monstrous boost against the Lightning with the club's first two goals.<\/p>In a game against the loaded Lightning, the 24-year-old Aube-Kubel was one of the best players on the ice. During training camp last month, he mentioned how his style of play suits the playoffs. It sure looked like it Saturday. The Flyers would love that type of effort and jolt throughout the playoffs.<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1292259258294308866?s=20<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1292261177179934720?s=20<\/p>\u2022 It appears the Flyers avoided what would have been a costly injury right before the first round.<\/p>Travis Sanheim left the game 22 seconds into the second period after taking a hit from Blake Coleman. It looked Sanheim was nursing his wrist or arm after the check as he went up the tunnel.<\/p>Fortunately for the Flyers, Sanheim returned later in the period.<\/p>\u2022 An injury scare like that creates a reminder of the Flyers' young, promising stable of blueliners. Playing his first round-robin game, Shayne Gostisbehere reminded everyone of his game.<\/p>If Gostisbehere is the Flyers' seventh defenseman, he did everything to potentially shake that status moving forward. Gostisbehere, who has had to undergo arthroscopic surgeries on both of his knees in 2020, had a good camp and said he has felt \"10 times better\" compared to during the regular season.<\/p>Against Tampa Bay, he looked like his mobile, confident, making-things-happen self from the blue line, recording two assists and a plus-2 rating. Gostisbehere made a sharp play to help create Aube-Kubel's first goal and showed his vision to assist Farabee's goal, which was a big one as it extended the Flyers' lead to 3-1 in the middle frame.<\/p>\"That was a hard pass from Ghost, it takes a special skill set to be able to one-time that,\" Flyers head coach Alain Vigneault said postgame in a video interview. \"Great play by Ghost but also great shot by Joel.\"<\/p>https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1292275800281055233?s=20<\/p>The 27-year-old offensive-minded defenseman displayed good instincts defensively, as well.<\/p>A performance like that will have Vigneault thinking, that's for sure. The sixth and final spot on defense will come down to Robert Hagg and Gostisbehere. Hagg likely has the slight edge for now, but Gostisbehere has drawn much closer and should be called upon if the Flyers don't have a positive start to the first round.<\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-out-james-van-riemsdyk-back-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs-round-robin-lightning\" target=\"_blank\">With Voracek out (undisclosed issue)<\/a>, Farabee jumped to the first line. Given he opened the tournament fighting for a spot in the lineup and likely the bottom six, this was a golden opportunity for the 20-year-old rookie winger.<\/p>He took advantage of it pretty well, scoring a goal and tallying an assist. His game allows him to scale the lineup but he truly stands out when he's with talented players. Good stuff from him and he's pushing for a bigger role, especially depending on the statuses of Voracek and Michael Raffl (undisclosed injury), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">who missed the final two games of the round robin<\/a>.<\/p>\"You look at our lineup, we have such great depth,\" Farabee said postgame in a video interview. \"Ghosty and I are sliding in, we've got guys sliding out, coming back in, it just goes to show how good of a team we are and how deep we are.\"<\/p>\u2022 The power play never really got going during the round robin as the Flyers finished 0 for 11 through the three games. That will have to be better over a course of a best-of-seven series.<\/p>\u2022 The Flyers caught some breaks throughout the round robin, but give them credit for taking advantage of those breaks.<\/p>They didn't face Vezina Trophy finalist Tuukka Rask in the 4-1 win over the Bruins. They didn't see James Norris Memorial Trophy finalist John Carlson in the 3-1 win over the Capitals.<\/p>Against the Lightning, they avoided Steven Stamkos (lower-body injury), who had 66 points in 57 games during the regular season. In the first period, Tampa Bay also lost stud defenseman Victor Hedman (undisclosed injury), who is also a finalist for the Norris Trophy.<\/p>These games weren't necessarily close, though, either \u2014 the Flyers did damage against three of the best clubs in the NHL.<\/p>\u2022 As the No. 1 seed in the first round, the Flyers face the 12th-seeded Canadiens, who upset the fifth-seeded Penguins in the best-of-five qualifying round, taking the series 3-1.<\/p>The Flyers went 2-1-0 against Montreal in the regular season, with a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-keep-late-fun-coming-thanks-overtime-win-canadiens-company-2011-12-team\" target=\"_blank\">3-2 overtime win Nov. 7<\/a>, a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-cap-special-november-enter-december-most-points-eric-lindros-led-1995-96-team\" target=\"_blank\">4-3 overtime victory Nov. 30<\/a> and a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-upended-canadiens-type-of-loss-always-seems-anger-fans\" target=\"_blank\">4-1 loss Jan. 16<\/a>.<\/p>The first round of the playoffs is scheduled to begin next Tuesday. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-schedule-2020-nhl-playoffs-dates-game-times-broadcast-information\" target=\"_blank\">The Flyers' schedule<\/a> is to be determined.<\/p>Sports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p>Subscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>[embed]<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/c143960b-2aaf-420e-a2b2-cc53dce8aba7\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe>[\/embed]<\/p><a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p><h3 dir=\"ltr\">More Flyers analysis for 24-team tournament<\/strong><\/h3>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-out-james-van-riemsdyk-back-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs-round-robin-lightning\" target=\"_blank\">Voracek out, JVR back after interesting scratch and more Flyers changes<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dont-expect-flyers-be-mingling-rivals-hotel-x-toronto-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Don't expect the Flyers to be mingling with their rivals at Hotel X Toronto<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Costly injury comes at interesting time, creates more decisions for Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p><section id=\"carousel-wrapper\">\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-team-hot-streak-round-robin\" target=\"_blank\">The Flyers were never on a hot streak \u2014 they're just that good<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-stanley-cup-predictions\" target=\"_blank\">Can the Flyers go all the way? Our Stanley Cup predictions are here<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/picture-collage-and-signs-show-love-flyers-they-eye-stanley-cup-run-toronto\" target=\"_blank\">Picture collage and signs show love for Flyers as they eye Cup run in Toronto<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/sean-couturier-nhl-playoffs-bubble-stanley-cup-item-baby-book\" target=\"_blank\">Couturier's goals in NHL bubble: Stanley Cup and an important baby book item<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-blue-jackets-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_blank\">Could Flyers still share the wealth against Blue Jackets in 1st round?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-shirts\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers announce playoff roster, have fans going crazy over shirts<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-stanley-cup-odds-flyers-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">All types of Flyers odds (including the Cup) in NHL's 24-team tourney<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dave-scott-couldnt-be-happier-flyers-chuck-fletcher-theres-more-action-be-done\" target=\"_blank\">Scott 'couldn't be happier' with Flyers, but there's more action to be done<\/a><\/strong><\/p><\/section>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-flyers-contract-signed-extension\" target=\"_blank\">Lindblom has new contract, his comeback is on with Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-canadiens-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_self\">Flyers-Canadiens is perfect on paper, but would it be a trap?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-explains-absence-flyers-training-camp-scrimmage\" target=\"_blank\">What happened? Voracek says calm down, he's fine ... now you know<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <\/b><\/font><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-shirts-sale-fans\" target=\"_blank\">Fans can purchase Flyers playoff shirts with new slogan<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-training-camp-day-1-different-times\" target=\"_blank\">What it was like to go back to work at Flyers practice in different times<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-odds-24-team-tournament-season\" target=\"_blank\">5 questions on Flyers' chances in 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/predictions-flyers-lineup-nhl-24-team-stanley-cup-playoffs-plan-return-coronavirus-suspension\" target=\"_blank\">Predictions for Flyers' best Game 1 lineup to start 24-team playoff<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-top-5-reinforcements\" target=\"_blank\">Who are the Flyers' top 5 reinforcements for 24-team tournament?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/brian-elliott-has-sweet-new-goalie-mask-flyers-nhl-playoffs-run\" target=\"_blank\">Elliott has sweet new mask for Flyers' playoff run<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-sign-mark-friedman-2-year-contract-extension\" target=\"_self\">Flyers sign a player to extension at position of strength<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-nhl-nhlpa-ratify-return-to-play-cba-schedule\" target=\"_blank\">What to know as NHL, NHLPA finish big step, announce schedule<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-free-agency-justin-braun-derek-grant-flyers\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers have two top 50 pending UFAs; will they re-sign them?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-2020-format-details-plan-stanley-cup-24-team-tournament\" target=\"_blank\">Everything Flyers fans need to know for NHL's 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/gary-bettman-flyers-mascot-gritty-cant-be-toronto-bubble-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Bettman gives Gritty the hard truth for why he can't be in Toronto bubble<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-key-dates-coronavirus-testing-protocols-return-to-play\" target=\"_blank\">Key dates, protocols announced as Flyers return<\/a><\/strong><\/p>","summary":"For the first time since 2000, the Flyers will be the Eastern Conference's No. 1 seed in the postseason after beating the Lightning, 4-1, Saturday night to win the round robin of the NHL's 24-team tournament. By Jordan Hall<\/p>","format":"filtered_html","safe_value":"<a href=\"http:\/\/scores.nbcsportsphiladelphia.com\/nhl\/boxscore.asp?gamecode=2020080920&home=20&vis=15\" target=\"_blank\">BOX SCORE<\/a><\/p>\nHeading into the first round of the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs, everyone is looking up at the Flyers.<\/p>\nFor the first time since 2000, the Flyers will be the Eastern Conference's No. 1 seed in the postseason after winning the round robin of the NHL's return-to-play 24-team tournament.<\/p>\nThey punctuated their climb Saturday night with a 4-1 win over the Lightning at Scotiabank Arena in the Eastern Conference's hub city Toronto.<\/p>\nNicolas Aube-Kubel had a big game with two goals, while Joel Farabee and Tyler Pitlick tallied markers, as well.<\/p>\nAfter going 3-0-0 through the round robin, the top-seeded Flyers will face the 12th-seeded Canadiens in the first round of the playoffs.<\/p>\nBack in 2000, the year of the Flyers' five-overtime playoff classic with the Penguins, the team lost the Eastern Conference Final to the eventual champion Devils in seven games.<\/p>\nTwenty years later, it's the No. 1 seed again.<\/p>\n\"We're excited here,\" Farabee said postgame in a video interview. \"We're ready to go dancing.\"<\/p>\n\u2022 Just how impressive were the Flyers in the round robin? They swept the Bruins, Capitals and Lightning by a combined score of 11-3.<\/p>\nPretty darn good tune-up for the Flyers as the real deal begins next week. They've always been a confident team, particularly from January on, but this was a measuring-stick round-robin tourney and they turned heads.<\/p>\nThe Capitals and Bruins finish the round robin Sunday (noon ET).<\/p>\n1. Flyers<\/strong> \u2014 3-0-0, six points 2. Lightning<\/strong> \u2014 2-1-0, four points 3. Capitals<\/strong> \u2014 0-1-1, one point 4. Bruins<\/strong> \u2014 0-2-0, zero points<\/p>\n\u2022 NBC Sports analyst Keith Jones mentioned at intermission how the Flyers come at their opponents in waves. Their depth was excellent through the round robin and will be arguably their biggest difference-maker in a playoff run.<\/p>\nIn the round robin, Claude Giroux went scoreless, James van Riemsdyk went scoreless in two games, Jakub Voracek had an assist in two games, Sean Couturier had a few assists, Travis Konecny (two assists) didn't have to score a goal, Kevin Hayes (four assists) didn't have to score a goal, and the Flyers convincingly earned the No. 1 seed.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Flyers' goal-scorers in round robin: Laughton \u2014 3 Aube-Kubel \u2014 2 Thompson \u2014 1 Pitlick \u2014 1 Farabee \u2014\u00a01 Myers \u2014 1 Sanheim \u2014 1 Raffl \u2014\u00a01 Only one had double-digit goals in the regular season (Laughton) and none were in the Flyers' top five. Impressive, impressive depth.<\/p>— Jordan Hall (@JHallNBCS) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1292319384468422657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 9, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n <blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">Claude Giroux's 14:05 ice time was his fewest minutes played in a game since 2017-18 season. Flyers beat Lightning by 3 goals. The more Flyers can spread minutes, the more effort they can exude on each shift \u2014 hard-on-attack, north-south, forechecking style to wear teams down.<\/p>— Jordan Hall (@JHallNBCS) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/JHallNBCS\/status\/1292470200185626625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 9, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 Carter Hart, who turns 22 years old next Thursday, looks primed for the first round.<\/p>\nThe Bruins had an NHL-most 100 points during the regular season. The Lightning scored an NHL-best 3.47 goals per game. Hart totaled 57 saves on 59 shots in matchups with those clubs.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">We can\u2019t say this is true, but we can\u2019t say this is not not true. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/AUExbaKvPS\">pic.twitter.com\/AUExbaKvPS<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1292300577523863553?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 9, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 In 2018-19, Aube-Kubel got his first taste of the NHL ... hardly. Called up from AHL affiliate Lehigh Valley, Aube-Kubel went scoreless in a nine-game stint with the big club, playing only 5:35 minutes per night.<\/p>\n\u201cIt\u2019s pretty hard, especially when you spend some 15 minutes without playing, 10 minutes without playing, so it\u2019s really hard for the legs,\" Aube-Kubel said in February about the limited minutes last season. \"When you\u2019re out there, you\u2019re just so stressed about not making a mistake that you don\u2019t really show anything.<\/p>\n\u201cLast year, I didn\u2019t really get a good chance to show what I could do. I\u2019m glad this year \u2026 even in my first game, I got put in a good situation with good players and it worked out for me.\u201d<\/p>\nIn 2019-20, the Flyers eventually summoned Aube-Kubel in mid-December. The new coaching staff has done a solid job of giving him opportunity but also constantly keeping him motivated. It's resulted in a hungry, hard-working, forechecking winger who gave the Flyers a monstrous boost against the Lightning with the club's first two goals.<\/p>\nIn a game against the loaded Lightning, the 24-year-old Aube-Kubel was one of the best players on the ice. During training camp last month, he mentioned how his style of play suits the playoffs. It sure looked like it Saturday. The Flyers would love that type of effort and jolt throughout the playoffs.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">PHILLY STRIKING FIRST. Ghost with the pass, NAK with the redirect! <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/RtirN3J3PB\">pic.twitter.com\/RtirN3J3PB<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1292259258294308866?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 9, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n <blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">NUMBER TWO FOR 62! NAK, AGAIN! Flyers lead, 2-0. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/eYwrFv3bEG\">pic.twitter.com\/eYwrFv3bEG<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1292261177179934720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 9, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\n\u2022 It appears the Flyers avoided what would have been a costly injury right before the first round.<\/p>\nTravis Sanheim left the game 22 seconds into the second period after taking a hit from Blake Coleman. It looked Sanheim was nursing his wrist or arm after the check as he went up the tunnel.<\/p>\nFortunately for the Flyers, Sanheim returned later in the period.<\/p>\n\u2022 An injury scare like that creates a reminder of the Flyers' young, promising stable of blueliners. Playing his first round-robin game, Shayne Gostisbehere reminded everyone of his game.<\/p>\nIf Gostisbehere is the Flyers' seventh defenseman, he did everything to potentially shake that status moving forward. Gostisbehere, who has had to undergo arthroscopic surgeries on both of his knees in 2020, had a good camp and said he has felt \"10 times better\" compared to during the regular season.<\/p>\nAgainst Tampa Bay, he looked like his mobile, confident, making-things-happen self from the blue line, recording two assists and a plus-2 rating. Gostisbehere made a sharp play to help create Aube-Kubel's first goal and showed his vision to assist Farabee's goal, which was a big one as it extended the Flyers' lead to 3-1 in the middle frame.<\/p>\n\"That was a hard pass from Ghost, it takes a special skill set to be able to one-time that,\" Flyers head coach Alain Vigneault said postgame in a video interview. \"Great play by Ghost but also great shot by Joel.\"<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">BIG MOVES FROM YOUNG BEEZER. <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/Ee7wOWMZbi\">pic.twitter.com\/Ee7wOWMZbi<\/a><\/p>— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NBCSPhilly\/status\/1292275800281055233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 9, 2020<\/a><\/blockquote>\n<script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script>\n\nThe 27-year-old offensive-minded defenseman displayed good instincts defensively, as well.<\/p>\nA performance like that will have Vigneault thinking, that's for sure. The sixth and final spot on defense will come down to Robert Hagg and Gostisbehere. Hagg likely has the slight edge for now, but Gostisbehere has drawn much closer and should be called upon if the Flyers don't have a positive start to the first round.<\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-out-james-van-riemsdyk-back-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs-round-robin-lightning\" target=\"_blank\">With Voracek out (undisclosed issue)<\/a>, Farabee jumped to the first line. Given he opened the tournament fighting for a spot in the lineup and likely the bottom six, this was a golden opportunity for the 20-year-old rookie winger.<\/p>\nHe took advantage of it pretty well, scoring a goal and tallying an assist. His game allows him to scale the lineup but he truly stands out when he's with talented players. Good stuff from him and he's pushing for a bigger role, especially depending on the statuses of Voracek and Michael Raffl (undisclosed injury), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">who missed the final two games of the round robin<\/a>.<\/p>\n\"You look at our lineup, we have such great depth,\" Farabee said postgame in a video interview. \"Ghosty and I are sliding in, we've got guys sliding out, coming back in, it just goes to show how good of a team we are and how deep we are.\"<\/p>\n\u2022 The power play never really got going during the round robin as the Flyers finished 0 for 11 through the three games. That will have to be better over a course of a best-of-seven series.<\/p>\n\u2022 The Flyers caught some breaks throughout the round robin, but give them credit for taking advantage of those breaks.<\/p>\nThey didn't face Vezina Trophy finalist Tuukka Rask in the 4-1 win over the Bruins. They didn't see James Norris Memorial Trophy finalist John Carlson in the 3-1 win over the Capitals.<\/p>\nAgainst the Lightning, they avoided Steven Stamkos (lower-body injury), who had 66 points in 57 games during the regular season. In the first period, Tampa Bay also lost stud defenseman Victor Hedman (undisclosed injury), who is also a finalist for the Norris Trophy.<\/p>\nThese games weren't necessarily close, though, either \u2014 the Flyers did damage against three of the best clubs in the NHL.<\/p>\n\u2022 As the No. 1 seed in the first round, the Flyers face the 12th-seeded Canadiens, who upset the fifth-seeded Penguins in the best-of-five qualifying round, taking the series 3-1.<\/p>\nThe Flyers went 2-1-0 against Montreal in the regular season, with a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-keep-late-fun-coming-thanks-overtime-win-canadiens-company-2011-12-team\" target=\"_blank\">3-2 overtime win Nov. 7<\/a>, a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-cap-special-november-enter-december-most-points-eric-lindros-led-1995-96-team\" target=\"_blank\">4-3 overtime victory Nov. 30<\/a> and a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-upended-canadiens-type-of-loss-always-seems-anger-fans\" target=\"_blank\">4-1 loss Jan. 16<\/a>.<\/p>\nThe first round of the playoffs is scheduled to begin next Tuesday. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-canadiens-schedule-2020-nhl-playoffs-dates-game-times-broadcast-information\" target=\"_blank\">The Flyers' schedule<\/a> is to be determined.<\/p>\nSports Uncovered is on all podcast platforms: <a href=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/Philly6\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https:\/\/link.chtbl.com\/philly6\">click here to subscribe now<\/a>!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/sports-uncovered\/episodes\/b365dcda-2153-4a05-8dae-25b85b658e5d\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \nSubscribe and rate Flyers Talk: <\/strong><a href=\"http:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/id1497383342\" target=\"_blank\">Apple Podcasts<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/play.google.com\/music\/listen?u=0#\/ps\/I4q7bjepqw6wbbaca4ezrva264e\" target=\"_blank\">Google Play<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/60iLyWd51VnD7JP7F459sw\" target=\"_blank\">Spotify<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.stitcher.com\/podcast\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Stitcher<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\" target=\"_blank\">Art19<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCXenWaHGZz4Ey4BObUUIyZQ\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube<\/a><\/p>\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/art19.com\/shows\/flyers-talk-a-philadelphia-flyers-podcast\/episodes\/c143960b-2aaf-420e-a2b2-cc53dce8aba7\/embed\" style=\"width: 100%; height: 200px; border: 0 none;\" scrolling=\"no\"><\/iframe> \n<a href=\"https:\/\/smart.link\/5bb788a3d5b83?site_id=Web_NBCS_Philly&creative_id=nbcsphi1356&cp_4=www.nbcsports.com&cp_1=washington&cp_2=myteams-nbc-sports&cp_3=nbcsphi1356\">Click here<\/a> to download the MyTeams App by NBC Sports! Receive comprehensive coverage of your teams and stream the Flyers, Sixers and Phillies games easily on your device.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\">More Flyers analysis for 24-team tournament<\/strong><\/h3>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-out-james-van-riemsdyk-back-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs-round-robin-lightning\" target=\"_blank\">Voracek out, JVR back after interesting scratch and more Flyers changes<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dont-expect-flyers-be-mingling-rivals-hotel-x-toronto-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Don't expect the Flyers to be mingling with their rivals at Hotel X Toronto<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/michael-raffl-injury-flyers-lineup-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Costly injury comes at interesting time, creates more decisions for Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-team-hot-streak-round-robin\" target=\"_blank\">The Flyers were never on a hot streak \u2014 they're just that good<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-stanley-cup-predictions\" target=\"_blank\">Can the Flyers go all the way? Our Stanley Cup predictions are here<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/picture-collage-and-signs-show-love-flyers-they-eye-stanley-cup-run-toronto\" target=\"_blank\">Picture collage and signs show love for Flyers as they eye Cup run in Toronto<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/sean-couturier-nhl-playoffs-bubble-stanley-cup-item-baby-book\" target=\"_blank\">Couturier's goals in NHL bubble: Stanley Cup and an important baby book item<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-blue-jackets-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_blank\">Could Flyers still share the wealth against Blue Jackets in 1st round?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-shirts\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers announce playoff roster, have fans going crazy over shirts<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-stanley-cup-odds-flyers-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">All types of Flyers odds (including the Cup) in NHL's 24-team tourney<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/dave-scott-couldnt-be-happier-flyers-chuck-fletcher-theres-more-action-be-done\" target=\"_blank\">Scott 'couldn't be happier' with Flyers, but there's more action to be done<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/oskar-lindblom-flyers-contract-signed-extension\" target=\"_blank\">Lindblom has new contract, his comeback is on with Flyers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-flyers-vs-canadiens-previewing-possible-1st-round-matchup\" target=\"_self\">Flyers-Canadiens is perfect on paper, but would it be a trap?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/jakub-voracek-explains-absence-flyers-training-camp-scrimmage\" target=\"_blank\">What happened? Voracek says calm down, he's fine ... now you know<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-shirts-sale-fans\" target=\"_blank\">Fans can purchase Flyers playoff shirts with new slogan<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-training-camp-day-1-different-times\" target=\"_blank\">What it was like to go back to work at Flyers practice in different times<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-odds-24-team-tournament-season\" target=\"_blank\">5 questions on Flyers' chances in 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/predictions-flyers-lineup-nhl-24-team-stanley-cup-playoffs-plan-return-coronavirus-suspension\" target=\"_blank\">Predictions for Flyers' best Game 1 lineup to start 24-team playoff<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-flyers-roster-24-team-tournament-top-5-reinforcements\" target=\"_blank\">Who are the Flyers' top 5 reinforcements for 24-team tournament?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/brian-elliott-has-sweet-new-goalie-mask-flyers-nhl-playoffs-run\" target=\"_blank\">Elliott has sweet new mask for Flyers' playoff run<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/flyers-sign-mark-friedman-2-year-contract-extension\" target=\"_self\">Flyers sign a player to extension at position of strength<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-nhl-nhlpa-ratify-return-to-play-cba-schedule\" target=\"_blank\">What to know as NHL, NHLPA finish big step, announce schedule<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-free-agency-justin-braun-derek-grant-flyers\" target=\"_blank\">Flyers have two top 50 pending UFAs; will they re-sign them?<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/nhl-playoffs-2020-format-details-plan-stanley-cup-24-team-tournament\" target=\"_blank\">Everything Flyers fans need to know for NHL's 24-team tournament<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/gary-bettman-flyers-mascot-gritty-cant-be-toronto-bubble-nhl-playoffs\" target=\"_blank\">Bettman gives Gritty the hard truth for why he can't be in Toronto bubble<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcsports.com\/philadelphia\/flyers\/2020-nhl-playoffs-key-dates-coronavirus-testing-protocols-return-to-play\" target=\"_blank\">Key dates, protocols announced as Flyers return<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n","safe_summary":"For the first time since 2000, the Flyers will be the Eastern Conference's No. 1 seed in the postseason after beating the Lightning, 4-1, Saturday night to win the round robin of the NHL's 24-team tournament. By Jordan Hall<\/p>\n"}]},"field_author_reference":{"und":[{"tid":"1056"}]},"field_bean_single_col":{"und":[{"target_id":"3706"}]},"field_chrome_page":{"und":[{"value":"0"}]},"field_date_published":{"und":[{"value":"2020-08-09 03:00:00","timezone":"America\/New_York","timezone_db":"UTC","date_type":"datetime"}]},"field_hero_image_credit":{"und":[{"value":"USA Today Images\/John E. Sokolowski","format":null,"safe_value":"USA Today Images\/John E. 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