Surprising Flyers Power Play Hits Top Half of NHL Rankings
Thirteen games into the season, the Flyers' power play ranks 14th in the NHL with a success rate of 20.9 percent heading into Thursday night’s game at Nashville. This marks a significant improvement from their traditionally poor performance.
Historically, the Flyers' power play has ranked near the bottom: 32nd in three consecutive seasons and 30th the last. But this season, their power play numbers stand out, proving better than expected.
Over their last six games, the Flyers have scored six power-play goals, including two in Tuesday’s come-from-behind victory over the Canadiens. After practice at the Bell Centre, coach Rick Tocchet commented on the fluctuations throughout the season.
“With power plays, during the year, you’re going to have ebbs and flows,” Tocchet said. “My big thing just from my history of coaching is you can’t be frustrated by it. Sometimes you have to (take) what a team gives you.”
The Flyers are capitalizing well on their chances. In the 5-4 shootout win Tuesday night, Philadelphia took advantage of a two-man advantage for 1:32. Cam York scored on the 5-on-3, followed by Bobby Brink on the 5-on-4, helping build a 3-0 lead.
Key Highlights
- Flyers power play ranks 14th in the NHL at 20.9% efficiency.
- Previously ranked near last for four straight seasons.
- Six power-play goals in the last six games.
- Strong special teams performance contributed to recent wins.
Author's summary: The Flyers' power play, once a season-long weakness, has improved dramatically this year, helping fuel recent successes and defying early expectations.