Link Checks 3/1/2012

After a shutout loss two nights ago, the Flyers are back in action tonight.

Back home, they’ll take on the New York Islanders.  They haven’t won at home yet vs the Islanders, and will look to do so tonight (TCL Flyers).  As the playoffs near, winning home games in now imperative for the Flyers (CSNPhilly).  Their 14-10-3 home record must improve big time (CSNPhilly), and they’ll start tonight trying to avoid an Islanders season sweep (Philly.com).  The Checking Line’s own Mark Trible and Matt Brigidi previewed this game, and evaluated the Flyers’ road trip on the latest edition of Flyers Corner (TCL Flyers).

The playoff race is in full gear now (RLD Hockey).  The Flyers and the Bruins will have a hand in determining who makes it, as they’ll be playing several Southeast Division teams (Crimespree Hockey).  If their defense tightens up, which needs to happen (GCobb), they could knock a few teams out of playoff contention.

About a week ago, Trenton Titans writer Matt Bernot wrote about goaltender Brad Phillips crazy day (TCL Flyers).  He was called up to the Flyers’ AHL affiliate Phantoms, but then quickly sent back down again, only to be called back up again.  Well, he was just sent down again (Post-Star).

The Penguins won a thriller last night...

		GP	POINTS	WINS	LOSSES	OTL
1.		61	86	40	15	6
2.		63	79	37	21	5
3.		62	75	34	21	7
4.		62	74	35	23	4
5.		63	61	24	28	9

They defeated the Stars in a shootout, with a final score of 4-3 (NHL.com).  They unfortunately lost Kris Letang to injury (SBNation Pittsburgh), someone who could be used down the stretch when the Penguins will have a tough schedule (PensBurgh).

The Pens won’t play again until Saturday, but the rest of the division teams will play tonight.  The Islanders want to rebound tonight vs the Flyers (TCL Isles).

The game of the night may be the Devils vs the Bruins.  It is the teams’ fourth and final meeting of the season.  Neither team has been at the top of their play recently, and both will want to get back on track (NHL.com).

The Rangers will be in Carolina to battle the Hurricanes.  Ryan Callahan will be out as most likely a precaution because of his bruised foot. Meanwhile, John Scott will make his debut tonight (Blueshirt Banter).

FLYERS' NEXT THREE OPPONENTS

vs NYI  Thursday 3/1

@ WAS  Sunday 3/4

vs DET  Tuesday 3/6