Flyers Look to Bounce Back at Atlanta

The Philadelphia Flyers will look to bounce back after last night's loss in Boston tonight at Philips Arena in Atlanta against the Thrashers.

Sergei (Bob) Bobrovsky will be in the net after Brian Boucher conceded six goals last night. Bobrovsky is coming off a strong start Tuesday against the Buffalo Sabres. Skepticism still surrounds Bob's consistency since he's never played a full NHL season.

While Bobrovsky does have his flaws (he is vulnerable on high shots as a butterfly goaltender and not consistent cutting down the shooter's angle) his athleticism and superb skill set are no mirage and his stats reflect that (16-6-3, 2.55 GAA, .917 save pct).

Here are the keys to tonight's game:

Bobrovsky/Pavalec-This is such an intriguing goaltender matchup because of the youth and parallel success of these both goalies. Ondrej Pavalec has a similar record to Bobrovsky (15-9-5) along with a better GAA (2.33) and save percentage (.930). After a horrific, inexplicable collapse on the ice in the beginning of the year, Pavalec has emerged as a solid young goaltender this team can try to build around.

Dustin Byfuglien-Byfuglien was a force for the Chicago Blackhawks in their championship run last year. He has gotten more attention because of it, but is still underrated for his ability to play at both ends of the ice whether he is on offense or defense. He is the anchor for the powerplay. Look for him to be at the top of the umbrella on the powerplay or at the top of the left circle to unload his shot.

Defensive Zone Play-The Flyers were atrocious in their defensive zone last night. A blind wrap around the boards led to the game-winning goal. Yes the absence of Chris Pronger has played a part in the Flyers overall problems in their own zone, but it's doing the simple things by chipping the puck off the glass or taking an icing if necessary because it temporary haults momentum despite the same players having to stay on the ice. It all starts with a tape to tape breakout pass, then getting the puck deep to unleash their devastating forecheck. These little things make the difference in the NHL.

I probably will video blog tomorrow stay tuned, good night and good hockey!