The Flyer's skates were singing playoffs earlier than most other contenders. Philly's bottom rung position last year caused many to simply discard any notion. Philly competed, recovered, and arrived to the surprise of many as an Eastern Conference playoff team. Hard work was needed coming up from the bottom of the League and it has paid off. Earlier Philly found themselves in playoffs to get into the playoffs. No small wonder the Flyers were eager to clean up quick and seal the deal early against Montreal. After all, a little rest before conference play is always best, as long as it's not in the penalty box at critical moments.
When asked about the second round, Stevens stated quietly, "I'm prepared to work through seven games." His coaching has been a big part of the Flyer's success program, but it is the team itself that has to gain and keep momentum in the flow. Beyond the Flyer's locker room door the mindset that creates success during series games had already come to gel. Multi-position playing has enhanced the team's versatility and confidence. Philly wasted no time second round. Give them one and then they're done, seemed to be the agenda the players cultivated. First game of a series is usually a testing out of the match. One to get to know you, then four to show you, was likely a Montreal plan. During the second game it was evident doubt began to flicker through the Montreal bench. This in itself assisted in their defeat. Philly's believing sent some very disappointed Zamboni drivers home before a seven game tally.
No "I" in the word team in the Flyer's Locker Room. Every game is part of this team's unified journey onward. Stay composed is a buzz phrase. As Montreal's touted Ovetchkin remained under Philly control the looks on the Montreal bench predicted their loss as an outcome. Philly players have brought serious study into their game. For Flyers it's beyond just guts and glory. Philly not only "believes", but they believe in learning from their mistakes. Even fickle Philadelphia fans are back to giving standing ovations. Respect well earned.
In retrospect, Philly's losing streak this season is looking like it might have been a mental retooling and adjustment period. The race for the Stanley continues. The Phantoms are ready to be any part of the Opera playing out. At the training facility Phantom players are not treated like a team down the hall behind door number two. They are part of the positive spirit spread in the training room they share daily with the Flyers. The Philly team has what it takes and reserves to go the miles.
No question the Penguins are a solid contender. Can Pittsburgh's top stars forgo individual ego playing style to attempt to defeat the unified strength of the Flyers team? We will see. Meanwhile, Penguins can watch all the film there is available to view, however, they need to take a close look at what is written on every face on the Philly bench.
Artica Burr web site www.articaburr.com