Flyers Clip Thrashers In Shootout

Same, but different. Such was game the Flyers played last night in beating Atlanta 3-2 in a shootout. They still looked sloppy in their own end at times, had trouble with some breakout passes and also with getting shots on net (who knew Andy Sutton was such a beast?), but on the whole they played solidly and with a tenaciousness -- especially on the penalty kill -- that had been lacking. Disturbing still, though, is the Flyers inability to get the puck on net, with 30 shots being blocked by the Thrashers and another 23 missing the net entirely. They must find a way to get more shots on goal and force opposing goalies to actually work for their saves. Making a solid NHL debut last night was defenseman Lars Jonsson. He had 14:58 of ice time, seeing time at both even strength and on the power play. I was particularly impressed with a play he had on the power play in the second period. Receiving a pass from Peter Forsberg at the right point, Jonsson deftly moved from the point through the high slot and got a wrist shot off just above the faceoff circle -- all the while using his body to protect the puck from an opposing player harassing him. I know it's only one game, but Jonsson looks like he belongs and I give credit to whomever was responsible for picking him up -- Clarke, Holmgren, or even Santa Claus. See: Daily News See: Inquirer See: Yahoo/AP