The Philadelphia Flyers have not won the Stanley Cup since they beat the Buffalo Sabres in the spring of 1975. But, maybe this most unusual hockey half-year will be the one that ends the streak.
Post-lockout points
General manager Paul Holmgren likely allowed Michael Leighton to become the team’s backup goalie again for reasons that went beyond money. Sure, his low-cost contract helps with cap containment. But, this veteran’s steady demeanor and journeyman stature means that Ilya Bryzgalov has nothing to worry about except the puck.
Leighton and Bryzgalov have apparently hit it off, which was clearly part of Holmgren’s intent in trading Sergei Bobrovsky to the Columbus Blue Jackets in the offseason. He basically wanted to create a better crease combination.
Bryz and Leights
Like it, or not, Bryzgalov will lead the Flyers’ playoff push and hopeful Stanley Cup drive. Conjecture regarding if his contract will be bought out after this season (or next) can’t even be realistically considered at this point.
Leighton, who infamously surrendered the 2010 Stanley Cup-losing (or winning, depending upon your perspective) goal to the Chicago Blackhawks, will only become the Flyers’ starter if “Bryz” is injured, or is undeniably horrible on the ice during many consecutive appearances.
“Leights” is exactly the right man to handle a subservient role this season and to be Bryzgalov’s pal. It’s possible that this short buddy-style movie could result in an unexpected happy ending.
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Sean O’Brien is based in the Philadelphia region. He was a print sports writer for five years. You can follow him on Twitter @SeanyOB and also read his daily Sports Blog: Insight.
