A fast first ten minutes of the 1st period saw both teams get some chances but the Flyers were able to get to Connor Hellebuck twice within 34 seconds to take a quick 2-0 lead.
The Jets finally got on the board when Dustin Byfuglien finally broke his goalless drought burying a cross-ice pass from Nic Petan. A bad goal that beat Connor Hellebuyck from the blue line gave Philly a 3-1 lead before Coach Maurice reunited the Ehlers, Wheeler and Scheifele line and that was rewarded with a tic-tac-toe goal. After 40 minutes it was a 3-2 Flyers lead heading into the final frame. Winnipeg was outshooting Philadelphia 21-14 and the main difference was Steve Mason, who had been excellent in the first couple of periods.
His excellence continued into the third where he made key saves on Mark Scheifele and Nikolaj Ehlers before Philadelphia made it 4-2. Mason was asked to step up again when Mark Scheifele and Blake Wheeler broke in on him shorthanded but the Flyers goalie made another big save. Despite some 3rd period pressure Jets couldn’t solve Mason again and Philly added an empty net goal to finish the Jets off 5-2.
Not a great way to start the five game road trip. Jets are still 4-1-1 in last six games and will have a chance to get back in the win column on Saturday night against the Bruins.
Players post-game audio:
Mark Scheifele: Strange start to the game? Obvious trip on that first goal against? On the Flyers being able to capitalize on their chances. Did he get an explanation on the non-call? What does he take from this one?
Dustin Byfuglien: Is it a relief to get a goal finally? What was the difference in the game overall? Surprised to see them down 2-0 after a quick start?
Coach post-game audio:
Paul Maurice: On what the Flyers did to get started? Just one of those games where the bounces didn’t go their way? How did he think his team responded after the third Philly goal? On Byfuglien getting his first goal. Tough for a goaltender to stay focused when he lets in two goals in 34 seconds?
