The Philadelphia Flyers had complete control of Game 1. They grabbed a 1-0 lead in the third period, they were aggressive on the forecheck and the New Jersey Devils were on their heels. But Ilya Bryzgalov's five-hole let the visiting team right back in the game.
Flyers Vs. Devils, Game 1 Score: Petr Sykora Sends Us To Overtime
It's a goal that the Flyers netminder absolutely has to stop, as Petr Sykora took the shot and essentially just threw it at the goalie. He was clearly looking for the five-hole, and Bryzgalov left it ready and waiting for him. As a result, we're heading to overtime in a game that the Flyers probably should have closed out.
In fact, just before Claude Giroux gave the Flyers a 3-2 lead on a third period power play, Wayne Simmonds made a crucial mistake that the Flyers might remember if this game goes south for them in the extra session(s). On a power play with a wide-open net, Simmonds pushed the puck wide of the cage. Every single person, Simmonds included, looked on in disbelief.
We have full coverage of Flyers vs. Devils Game 1 in our StoryStream. For more from the New Jersey perspective, check in with In Lou We Trust. For more from the Philadelphia perspective, check in with Broad Street Hockey.
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