14 Year Shootout Slump?
Why are the Flyers so bad in the shootout?
Wednesday night The Flyers were in an overtime shootout which they did win, but historically in the shootout, the Flyers have been horrible. Since the shootout was introduced in 2005 the Flyers have been the worst team in the NHL for shootout situations. Not just the worst but the worst by a large margin when compared to the rest of the league.
According to records.nhl.com, the Flyers’ all-time shootout record is 44 wins and 83 losses. That record is good enough for a .347 win percentage, the lowest of any team. The next worst team based on percentage is the Carolina Hurricanes with a .410 win percentage a margin over 6% better than the Flyers.
How can the Flyers be THAT bad in the shootout?
To be a great shootout team you need creative skilled skaters with quick hands, and a solid goalie on the other end turning away opposing shots.
Flyers have always relied on physical play over skill. Even many of the Flyers more skilled players are more known for their physical skill along the boards and in tight situations rather than stick dangling dekes. Yes, the Flyers have had some great goal scorers but very few of them have had the silky mitts that elite shootout players like, Pavel Datsyuk and TJ Oshie have.
The only thing more important than great shots. is stopping them when the opponents get their chance. This may be a huge explanation into the Flyers terrible shootout record. Since the beginning of the Flyers’ franchise, very few times have the Flyers had a solid consistent goalie in net. And since 2005, no dominate goalies even come to mind.
Despite their recent win this week historically the Flyers have been a pathetic shootout team. The lack of elite players in the only two shootout positions has definitely played a large role. That all may be coming to an end. With the recent breakout of Carter Hart, this team might be climbing those shootout ranks soon.
Featured Photo: "MHS staff, milehighsports.com"
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Categorized:Flyers