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Flyers Gameday: 12-12-09 vs. Devils |
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PREVIEW (10:30 AM)
The goal-starved Flyers (14-14-1) have been shut out in three of their last six games and have seen their power play go down the tubes in recent weeks. On paper, regardless of their two victories this season over the Atlantic Division leading New Jersey Devils (21-8-1), tonight's game is not a favorable matchup. The Devils remain of the NHL's stingiest defensive teams, and Jacques Lemaire squads rarely beat themselves.
Nevertheless, tonight's game presents a golden opportunity for the Flyers to start taking steps toward getting back into contention in the Eastern Conference. The Devils are a much different team when playing from behind than protecting a lead. In the two previous meetings, the Flyers have been able to play from ahead and it's made all the difference. However, the club was playing with much more confidence at those times and had a healthier lineup.
STARTING LINEUP (subject to change)
Hartnell - Richards - Giroux
JVR - Carter - Briere
Laperriere - Pyorala - Asham
Nodl - Kalinski - Laliberte
Carle - Pronger
Coburn - Timonen
Bartulis - Parent
Boucher
[Backlund]
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I will be at the Barnes + Noble bookstore at Deptford Mall (The Court at Deptford II) today to sign copies of Pelle Lindbergh: Behind the White Mask. The event starts at 2 PM. Hope to see you there!