Philadelphia Flyers eyeing fourth straight win as they host Florida Panthers – NHL Preview
Philadelphia Flyers are in top form with their offence and defence performing collectively to outclass opponents.
Last time when Flyers played against Florida Panthers, the latter lost after shootout, but both teams have followed different patterns after that game with none of them being able to establish a consistent run.
Panthers managed to win and lose straight games at regular intervals, and Flyers struggled to win two in a row, but they have found their winning ways now.
Both these teams, which are expected to reach the National Hockey League (NHL) playoffs rather easily, are going to play against each other on Thursday, March 8, 2012, at Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Let’s take a look at the recent form of these teams.
Panthers
Panthers have played three games this month and after losing the first two, they snapped the skid in the last game against Ottawa Senators.
Panthers’ offence is not up to the mark while the defence is also not in good shape and that provides Flyers an evident edge over them.
In the three games this month, Panthers have scored a total of five goals while giving away 12.
Panthers are ranked at third spot in the Eastern Conference with 74 points after 65 games and could be replaced by any other team if they do not get more wins.
Panthers’ coach, Kevin Dineen, said of the team’s situation:
"A week or two swing can make such a huge difference. We are looking for more consistency in our effort game to game. … I was happy with the way we played five out of six periods this weekend and we'll be looking for an even more complete set in our next
back-to-back games against the Pennsylvania group."
Flyers
Last month, Flyers failed to win two or more games in a row, but they started this month pretty well and have not lost any game so far.
They have defeated New York Islanders (6-3), Washington Capitals (1-0) and Detroit Red Wings (3-2) and are determined to beat Panthers now.
Flyers are ranked at fifth spot in the Eastern Conference with 81 points after 65 games.
Predictions
Flyers have a slight edge.
The sum of goals scored by both teams might exceed six.
If Panthers win, the winning margin will be two or more goals.
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