PREVIEW (9:45 AM)

Until this season, the Flyers dominated the Atlanta Thrashers. It's been a different story this year, with Atlanta winning the first two games between the clubs. The season series will conclude this weekend with a home-and-home set.

The resurgence of Simon Gagne has been the brightest spot for the Flyers since the Olympic break. After scoring in the comeback victory over Dallas on Thursday, Gagne now has eight goals and 10 points since the break. Scott Hartnell finally seems to be doing the right things in the offensive zone again and has two goals and four points in the last five games.

Above all, the Flyers need Brian Boucher -- who made his first start since Dec. 21 in the win over Dallas -- to churn out a series of solid performances. People forget that his play was generally solid in December. The team was losing, but the biggest reason was that nobody was scoring goals.

On paper at least, the Flyers should enjoy an advantage if special teams is a significant factor in the outcome tonight. Atlanta ranks 22nd in the NHL on the power play and 21st on the penalty kill.


LINEUP (Subject to change)

Gagne - Richards - Carcillo
Hartnell - Carter - Briere
JVR - Giroux - Leino
Powe - Betts - Laperrrier

Carle - Pronger
Timonen - Krajicek
Coburn - Parent

Boucher
[Duchensne]

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