Flyers Blow Chance to Solidify Playoff Spot

The Flyers just can't stay healthy, and they can't play consistently. The Flyers lost 5-2 to the Sabres, the team chasing them in the Eastern Conference standings. The game was close for the first two periods, until the Sabres pulled away with three third period goals. It was a penalty-filled game, but the Flyers could not convert on any of their 5 power play chances. Scottie Upshall and Steve Downie each scored a goal.

Shortly before the game, the Flyers learned that Danny Briere has a slight shoulder sprain and would miss the game. It is unknown at this point how long Briere is out, but he joins injured Flyers Joffrey Lupul, Simon Gagne, Mike Richards, and Derian Hatcher on the bench. That group includes arguably the four best scoring options the Flyers have, so it is no surprise the team produced very little offense tonight. There is word that Hatcher and Lupul will be back for Saturday's game against the Islanders, so that should help solidify the line-up.

The loss allowed the Sabres to pull within one point of the Flyers for the 8th seed, and it kept the Flyers from gaining any ground on the Rangers, who lost tonight in a shoot-out to the Islanders. With 15 games left, the Flyers need to find some health and some consistency, otherwise they may once again be on the outside looking in come playoff time.