Gameday 19 Preview: Flyers vs. Avalanche

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November 19, 2024

The Philadelphia Flyers are set to tackle the Colorado Avalanche tonight on the Wells Fargo Middle, in search of their fourth straight win within the second sport of their five-game homestand.

Whereas the Flyers are coming off their most cohesive efficiency of the season—a assured 5-2 win over the Buffalo Sabres—this matchup in opposition to the Avalanche will likely be a real litmus check for John Tortorella’s squad. Colorado, who additionally had a sluggish begin to their season, nonetheless boasts velocity, talent, and a deep offensive arsenal, making them one of many league’s hardest groups to include.

Regardless of some lineup changes resulting from accidents, the Flyers will look to construct on their current success and show they’ll cling with a few of the most high-octane groups within the NHL.

Kolosov Will get The Nod In Internet

With Sam Ersson formally positioned on Injured Reserve with a lower-body damage, the goaltending obligations will fall to Ivan Fedotov and Aleksei Kolosov— with Kolosov beginning in purpose for the Flyers tonight, his first alternative since Nov. 5. Kolosov has proven flashes of capability throughout his early North American profession, and tonight he’ll have to be sharp. The Avalanche are a crew that may make life tough for goaltenders with their high-paced, relentless assault, led by stars like Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen.

This sport represents a big problem for Kolosov, however it additionally gives a possibility to show he belongs within the NHL degree. With Fedotov carrying a heavy workload not too long ago, the Flyers will likely be relying on Kolosov to present them an opportunity to win in opposition to a harmful opponent.

Grans Steps In, Andrae Sits Out

In a blow to the Flyers’ defensive corps, Emil Andrae is sidelined with a mid-body damage sustained in opposition to the Sabres. Andrae has been a revelation on the blue line this season, contributing not solely defensively but in addition as a key playmaker. His absence creates a noticeable void within the Flyers’ lineup, significantly on the powerplay, the place his imaginative and prescient and puck-moving capability have been invaluable.

Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Emil Andrae (36) during practice at the Flyers Training Center.<p><button class= — Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Emil Andrae (36) throughout apply on the Flyers Coaching Middle.

Megan DeRuchie-The Hockey Information

To fill that hole, Helge Grans has been known as up from the Lehigh Valley Phantoms. Grans, a promising younger defenseman with measurement and mobility, will slot into the lineup and have an opportunity to showcase his expertise in opposition to one of many league’s quickest groups. Whereas his NHL expertise is restricted, Grans has been a strong contributor within the AHL and can purpose to convey physicality and poise to the Flyers’ protection.

Matching Colorado’s Velocity And Depth

Colorado’s calling card is their velocity, and the Flyers’ protection will have to be prepared for relentless strain in transition. Gamers like Nathan MacKinnon thrive on catching opponents flat-footed, and the Avalanche’s depth means the Flyers cannot afford to let their guard down at any level.

That stated, the Flyers have quietly constructed a sooner and extra dynamic lineup of their very own. Travis Konecny, Matvei Michkov, and Anthony Richard injected tempo and creativity into the offense, whereas the protection—anchored by Travis Sanheim and now supported by Grans—has began to gel right into a cohesive unit.

Philadelphia Flyers winger Travis Konecny (11) during practice at the Flyers Training Center.<p>Megan DeRuchie-The Hockey Newa</p> — Philadelphia Flyers winger Travis Konecny (11) throughout apply on the Flyers Coaching Middle.

Megan DeRuchie-The Hockey Newa

Philadelphia Flyers winger Travis Konecny (11) during practice at the Flyers Training Center.<p><button class= — Philadelphia Flyers winger Travis Konecny (11) throughout apply on the Flyers Coaching Middle.

Megan DeRuchie-The Hockey Newa

Philadelphia might want to play with the identical connectivity they displayed of their victory over Buffalo. Good puck administration, fast transitions, and disciplined defensive positioning will likely be key to preserving the Avalanche’s offense in test.