Wrapping up the coverage of last night's Game 3, a 4-1 loss by the Flyers that puts them in a 3-0 hole. Game 4 is Thursday night at the Wachovia Center.
From the Daily News
Ed Moran: Penguins sweep an extinct possibility
Rich Hofmann: Miscue by Downie a real downer
Sam Donnellon: Heart is there but the legs are not
John Smallwood: Flyers' goal: Don't get swept
Ed Barkowitz: Even without a goal, Crosby a leader for Penguins
More Hofmann: Coburn says he will play once swelling goes down
More Barkowitz: Flyers pay tribute to fallen officer
Game 3 recap
From the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Dave Molinari: Road sweet road
Gene Collier: It's sinking in, Penguins are for real
Shelly Anderson: Flyers shocked and still with no answers
More Molinari: Penguins notebook
From the Tribune-Review
Rob Rossi: Pens push Flyers to the brink
Joe Starkey: Flyers never really had a chance
Mike Prisuta: Briere, Propsal still silent
More Prisuta: Pens aware of Red Wings
Rich Hofmann has been at the Daily News since 1980. He previously blogged the Eagles' postseason run in 2006. 
Ed Barkowitz was the first Philadelphia Newspaper journalist to write a blog, starting back in 2002.
Comments (27)
My. My. Where are all of the Flyer fans this morning? It would seem that all of you loudmouths have nothing to say today, huh?
Like I've told you all for 8 days, you're beloved pumpkins can't skate with the Penguins. These two teams look like they're in different leagues.
The greatest thing of all though was when Ryan Malone scored the 3rd Penguin goal, and the Versus cameras scanned through the crowd and showed all of the sad faces. That was just the greatest. Reality had FINALLY set in for you morons.
You can all start repeating that famous 25 year Philadelphia refrain........
"There's always next year."
What a complete BEATDOWN this series has been. But it only happened because the PENS ARE JUST TOO LOADED!!
Posted by PensAreJustTooLoaded | May 14, 2008 7:49 AM
For the love of God -- get a freaking life. What are you? 13 years old? Gloaters are losers. Your an embarrassment to other Pens fans.
Posted by Hadrian | May 14, 2008 8:00 AM
Thanks, Hadrian!
Watching the game last night, I had to feel like the Penguins were the better team. But I'll always wonder, what if? What if the Flyers hadn't been shocked by the last minute loss of Timmonen? You can't underestimate that one player's incredible importance to this particular team, both in his play and in his all around character and personality. The guy is a total warrior, and he steadies everyone around him. Then to lose Coburn in game two... we'll always be wondering "what if"?
That said, I hope the Flyers can get one game on guts and a little luck. It really stinks to be swept; they don't deserve it!
Posted by Stacy | May 14, 2008 8:15 AM
The Flyers seem to be more interested in getting in a good hit than to get any shots on goal. The Flyers have to get faster on defense, to compete and go further in the playoffs in the years to come. It wouldn't be a bad idea to rid the Flyer's of their upper management team either. The mentality of the Holgren and Clarke era has no room in the 'new' NHL. And finally, enough of the excuses. (etc. injuries, penalities, bad ice)
Excuses are used for losers and this is from a fan from Pittsburgh who has rooted for the Pirates all of his life!
Posted by Greenfly | May 14, 2008 8:52 AM
Man, you know you're acting like a jerk when your own fans tell you to shove it! Thanks again, Hadrian, for bringing a sensible view from opposing fans to this board.
I really don't think the Pens were all that much better than the Flyers last night (or in game 2). The Flyers had some great scoring opportunities that just barely missed. The officiating wasn't great, but unlike game 2, it only effected the momentum early, not playing a tremendous role on the score sheet. And as much as the losses of Timonen and Coburn hurt, I'm proud of our defensemen for stepping up. Hatch wasn't the problem last night, nor were Smith and Modry.
Only someone who hasn't watched the Flyers over the past 2 years would argue that we need to ditch the upper management. Holmgren should (and probably will) receive executive of the year. This is a very, very young core, with Richards, Carter, Umby, Coburn, etc., that is going to bring the Cup back to Philly before its done. I love the way that this organization is built, and I'm really proud of the way they turned this ship around.
Posted by Mike P | May 14, 2008 9:25 AM
Sorry, we don't jump out of bed anxious to troll blogs at 7:49am.
You've been absent for a couple days, we were worried about you.
Posted by c | May 14, 2008 9:26 AM
My guess is that the upper management is seeing what a Downey brings to the team, while Richards is speeding ahead of his entire team. I also can't help but notice how deep beyond the blueline the Flyers D is allowing the Pens before engaging. That's no doubt a consequence of losing two top D guys, but that does not excuse every line. For that matter, it does not excuse the sloppy puck handling by the Flyers. They're just looking tense and under heavy pressure.
I also agree finishing the hits on the pens behind the play can take a needed player out of the play where he's more needed. There was much better forechecking going on last night by the Flyers in the middle of the game, but invariably the Pens speed is killing the slower Flyers when they go to finish after the puck is long gone checks. That's not working.
My call was Pitt in 6 games before the injuries. Don't forget that Therrien the Pens have adjusted dramatically (downshifted) to compensate for those injuries to be more patient knowing chances will invariably show up, so it may look as if the Pens O is not so spectacular.
There's always a chance of a sweep -- very possible, but those are hard to come by. 4-1.
Posted by Hadrian | May 14, 2008 9:27 AM
MikeP -- last night was a closer game than the score indicated, no doubt. Really, a tying goal would have changed the entire dynamic, but I have to agree with your own writers in the sports section that the Pens downshifted into a mode of patience very nicely -- a sleeper hold was applied. Still, chances were there, just not finished -- almost always because there was nobody around to pick up the trash, although the pens generally were clearing like fiends.
Hatcher is a great D-man...smothering, but he's just getting a little long in the tooth. Seems he's compensating a touch to keep in the play which makes for less for your O.
No doubt the Flyers have had a great turn-around, but almost too fast. It'd have done you some good to stick around in the cellar for another year or two! I say that both from our own experience in team building, and because I hate you guys. :)
Posted by Hadrian | May 14, 2008 9:41 AM
Lady Luck is not with the Flyers this series. It seems like in every game at least one Penguin goal has gone in from bouncing off of a Flyer. At this time of year that will make or break a series. Isn't the saying "It's better to be lucky than be good?" Well I guess the best scenario is it's best to be lucky and good.
I do think Holmgren should win executive of the year for the work he's done since taking over last year. However, this offseason will greatly test him. Smith and Prospal (at least) are UFA and Carter and Umberger are RFA (i think). They won't have as much room under the cap this offseason as last, so fitting both Carter and Umberger under there might be tough. I think another need is a top 3 or 4 defenseman, someone better than Jones, but not as good as Coburn. The first steps on the road to competitiveness are the easiest; it's those last few that lead to a Championship that are always the hardest to get right.
I think it was a successful season for the Flyers, regardless of if it ends tomorrow or in game 5 in Pittsburgh...or in a game 7 victory over the Penguins (a guy can dream, can't he?). There's no reason, right now, not to think that this team can't be just as competitive next season as it was this one.
Posted by Pat H | May 14, 2008 9:52 AM
Does it really matter. Neither team has or would have a chance against Detroit!
Posted by spj108 | May 14, 2008 10:10 AM
Holmgren as executive of the year? Is that a joke?I think we won that one also in the 'burgh, with Shero. Remember that name Philly fans? The Flyers will have a hard time even making the playoffs next year, so enjoy it while you can.
Posted by Greenfly | May 14, 2008 10:36 AM
I have to give the Pens credit for continuing to win and just playing smart hockey, but the Flyers have beaten themselves in this series.
The loss of Timonen and Coburn have had some factor in these losses, considering that a good portion of the Pens' goals have been garbage goals around the crease. Our D wasn't leaving Biron out to dry against Washington and Montreal. And at the same time, our offense was benefitting from the rebounds and bounces that the Penguins have gotten all series long. It's partially luck, but mostly just good positioning and smart offense.
That being said, if the Flyers are eliminated tomorrow night, it has been a great season to watch and follow.
My offseason predictions: Smith and Prospal are gone. Either Carter or Umberger get signed, not both. Can't wait to start hearing Gagne's name again.
Posted by Brian | May 14, 2008 11:03 AM
I forgot to add this:
The Pens defense has been excellent. Lots of credit to them to keeping us away from Fleury.
Posted by Brian | May 14, 2008 11:05 AM
Who were the Flyers D-men on the ice when they had Biron pulled trying to get a last-minute goal? Kukkonen and Modry. Enough said.
Injuries are a part of the game, and there are times they just cant be made up. You're asking Hatcher, Jones, Modry to do things they are not good at doing -- that outlet pass to Prospal to set up a rush, that extra-agility to get the puck out of the zone at a crucial time, etc. Even though Kimmo and Coburn are D-men, their absence highly affects the offense in so many ways...
Posted by Ray V | May 14, 2008 11:21 AM
The Pens have 11 wins in the playoffs, that's more than the average number of teeth for the Pittsburgh population!
Posted by orangenblack | May 14, 2008 11:43 AM
Before Rangers and Flyers Series, there was a lot talk about how these teams were going to take it to the Penguins in their own respective styles and possibly win the series, or go to seven games. Rightfully so I might add based on when they had done in the playoffs up to that point. Doesn't it speak volums for the kind of team the Pengs are in what is basically a dismantling of the opponents they have faced so far? Even against the Sens, no one expected for the Pengs to lose the series, but they flat out dominated every game. The are winning the way they should, each series of course has gotten tougher, but the way they play basically shuts down other teams. So, with the speed they have, the work ethic and committment to Defense they have so far, needless to say the offensive skills they posses....I think it is a real possibilty they also shutdown the mighty Red Wings in Finals. Any thoughts? (Let's face it, neither team down in the series are coming back from 3-0 defecits).
Posted by GT | May 14, 2008 12:43 PM
The way they're playing they have a shot. I know the Red Wings will have the best blueline group out of any of the team's they've faced, by far. Outside of that, I haven't seen the Wings enough this year to say how they play.
That series won't be short of "star" power though, that's for sure. Somewhere, Bettman is probably smiling.
Posted by Pat H | May 14, 2008 12:56 PM
Shook my head back when and really wondering now... why is it we let Brashear go and then Eager??? They at least had hockey skills and quite frankly much more of a physical prescence that Downie or Dowd.
Posted by JKav | May 14, 2008 1:00 PM
Look at what everyone is complaining about?? Downie, Dowd, Refs, Injuries, Hatcher, etc... C'mon philly!! I bleed orange and black...plain and simple...we are getting beat by a better team AT THIS POINT IN TIME! They are on a roll...yes...the most significant excuse would be injuries to out top two "D". To even suggest they lost the game last night because of a kid who played what...8 shifts...maybe 9. C'mon...Most hockey fans know, you need to be on a roll going into the playoffs and conitinue that roll while in it...and to their credit, the Penguins have sustained that roll. Look what happend to the #1 seed in the East this year...and they got beat by who??
This playoffs will go dwon in my mind as one of the more memorable ones in my life, so i say THANKS to the "boys in blue" for a great season SO FAR...after all..it is NOT over.
Posted by CPH | May 14, 2008 1:24 PM
I think all in all, I'm very happy with the progress we've made. From worst to Conference finals in a year is a hell of an accomplishment. We've come into these playoff's with no expectations on us other than what we've put on ourselves. Let's not lose sight of what we've done.
Conversly the Pens were picked by many as Stanley Cup finalists since the beginning of the year. Add to that their development of Defense and picking up of Hossa at the deadline. They deserve all the Kudo's they're getting. They are really a powerhouse of a team.
However (and not to take anything away from the Pens or their "Grateful" fans) The Flyers have turned their fortunes around in 1 season without the benifit of 3 years of bottom finishes, and the subsquent high draft picks that follow. 2 of which were Malkin & Crosby. Our pick (Van Riemsdyke) isn't even a factor on our team yet.
I'm happy for Pittsburgh. But let's not throw the baby out with the Bathwater. Homer & Stevens were instrumental in turning this team around. They deserve some big time Kudos as well.
Let's also not start throwing in the towel. These are much closer games than people will admit. Let's face it, even when the Flyers were winning, the 'experts' were talking about how much the Flyers were being outplayed. I want to take a couple of games from Pittsburgh. If we DO have to go out, we're going out swinging!
Go Flyers!!!!
PS Thanks Hadrian, I sure this rivalery will continue for awhile. It's good to know there are opposing fans you can respect.
Posted by flyler | May 14, 2008 2:00 PM
(I posted this in the Game 3 recap, but this is a much more intelligent thread, so please pardon the double post)
Good to see that intelligent discourse has officially been declared "extinct"..and that cuts both ways, fellow Pens fans. To the fans of the Flyers- the last 3 games have proven the Pens are more skilled offensively and defensively, including between the pipes. The Pens lineup is also deeper and healthier, but you play with who you got, not make excuse about who you don't have. The outcome of this series is all but settled, but I wouldn't be surprised to see the Flyers send it back to the 'Burgh for a Game 5, but that game will end it. If not in 5, then 6. If not in 6, then 7. My point is there is no way the Flyers beat the current Pens team 4 straight.
As for the presumptive Cup Finals, having watched both teams throughout the first 3 rounds, I think it will be an exciting series. Both teams are well-coached: committed to a defense-first system, but also capable of creating spectacular goals off of transition play. Experience may well tip the scales toward the Red Wings, but any team with Malkin, Crosby and Hossa has got more than a fighting chance.
Cut the hatred, guys- Philly has some great atrributes, but so does Pittsburgh. Loyal fans in both places- the Pens were not teetering on translocation due to poor attendance, rather poor management in the pre-cap era.
Support the Eastern Conference rep either way, and prepare yourself for reality- the road to the Stanley Cup will be coursing like a 4th river through Pittsburgh for the forseeable future. An abundance of talent, friendly cap economics and solid management are a winning combination.
I look forward to the next battle on Thursday night!
Burgh Guy
Posted by Burgh Guy | May 14, 2008 2:10 PM
Lets not forget the Flyers finished last last year. This is quite a turn around and to do it all without your best player Gagne for basically the entire year and with a slow defense is pretty awesome. Then we lose our 2 best d men this series and that proves to be too much to make it competitive. You can say all you want about making excuses but this is true not an excuse. Next year will be great and some people will go:Kaps, Hatcher, Smith, Dowd, Prospal, Thoreson, Modry And some will be signed: Brian Campbell Umberger and Carter. Add Gagne to this mix and Giroiux and Parent and you have a very good faster team again. Great season boys!
Posted by Flyeredup77 | May 14, 2008 2:26 PM
I think this year's Eastern Conference playoffs showned that the East is going to be very competitive for the foreseeable future.
1) Pittsburgh obviously has a lot of young talent
2) The Flyers have a good young core that is maturing, and also a few young prospects that should be on the team in the near future.
3) The Capitals have a good young core that came together this year.
4) Montreal, despite the outcome last round, has a decent young team. And if Price is actually good, that'll further boost them.
5) The Devils are always competitive.
6) And for the most part, so are the Rangers. Especially since the lockout.
That's six teams right there that I feel will all be constantly contending for the playoffs for the next 5+ years. It's going to make for some exciting hockey.
Posted by Pat H | May 14, 2008 2:37 PM
Burgh guy,
The river going through pittsburgh is going to last this season, maybe next tops. With the Salary cap now, I'd like to see how you are going to afford Malkin, Crosby and Hossa at 8 mil per for each. That's 24 mil out of a 45 mil or so cap. I forget the exact number, but it's going to be hard if not impossible to sustain it. Not to mention, that Bettman can't rig the lottery to get you a number one draft pick in the upcoming years.
And to whoever said that Shero should be GM of the year, HA. Shero built their team with "luck" in the lottery (if you can call Bettman rigging the drafts luck). Holmgren took this team from worst to the Conference finals in one year. It took the Pens three years and two Christmas Miracles to make it. Holmgren took a team that was picked to finish last in the East and got them to the Conference Finals with his smart trades and free agent pickups.
The flyers season may end tomorrow night or maybe sunday, but I hope we take crosby with us.
Oh, and Papa John's had it wrong, the real crybaby is about 125 miles east of Cleveland.
Go Flyers!
Posted by Getting black lung in Pittsburgh | May 14, 2008 5:12 PM
Homer & Stevens turned the team around in 1 year, using most the same young core. Shero & Therien did it in 3, with 2 1st overall dream drafts and hiring the biggest hired gun out there.
All Kudos to the Pens team, but the turnaround that's happened in Philly can't have happened many times in league history.
Posted by flyler | May 14, 2008 7:21 PM
My 2008 Free Agent Wish List:
Marian Hossa - Pitt
Brooks Orpik - Pitt
Mike Green - Wash
Valtteri Filppula - Det
That is all. Enjoy.
Posted by Dave | May 14, 2008 9:00 PM
Ah, the hate reurns. I won't dignify the shots at my hometown by returning with my own anti-Philly agenda. You think you're in Utopia, buckaroo? Ha.
As for cap era management, it's all about having assets in both the major and minor leagues. You say Shero sold out for the future by acquiring Hossa, but the organization had to have the talent that ATL wanted...including a 24th overall pick from last year, not a "lucky" pick as you call the lottery. Furthermore, if you had listened to the Shero interview on VS instead of raiding your pantry for more kleenex you would have heard him give most of the credit to Craig Patrick for the current team's success. Classy. You know, I doubt we'll see Holmgren or Clarke mentioned in the same sentence with class anytime soon.
Hey, it sucked to watch a lot of talent leave teh Burgh over the last decade, compounded by Patrick obviously losing his edge as a GM and the franchise being cash constrained. But, the Guins earned those high picks, trust me. That's the way the system is supposed to work, and it just so happened that world class talent was available when their turn came. FYI- the Pens traded UP to get Fleury, so it ain't all luck as much as you'd like to portray it that way. The Pens are a nice mix of homegrown prospects, trades and free agent signings. Shero has said he can keep the core together, and I trust him, but even if he had to sell-off some assets- what do you think Malkin, Staal, Whitney might bring in return? Oh yeah...
You guys are a tough crowd to feel sympathetic toward. Oh well, it will be over for you soon. Fore!
Burgh Guy
Posted by Burgh Guy | May 15, 2008 11:36 AM