Philadelphia Flyers: Brian Elliott gets the nod Thursday against the Caps

Philadelphia Flyers goalie Brian Elliott set to get some work in Game 2 of the Round Robin.

Philadelphia Flyers Head Coach Alain Vigneault has announced that Brian Elliott will take the reins for Thursday’s game with the Washington Capitals. Of course, this news was met with push back from the Flyers faithful almost instantly. But I am here to tell you, don’t fret Flyers fans, there is a method to the madness of Elliott getting the nod.

It has been known for about a week now that Brian Elliott would get one of the three Round Robin games, and quite honestly it makes the most sense for him to get the start against the Capitals. Although it’s been a bit of an up and down year for the veteran net minder, he has seen some success this season against Washington. In 2 starts against the Caps, Elliott was very strong, winning both games and posting a Goals Against of 2.00 along with a save percentage of .926.

To be quite honest, the Flyers are blessed to be able to run out Elliott and feel confident they can win games. As we all know, for years and years the Flyers have been a revolving door for mediocre goaltenders. Having not one, but two goaltenders on the roster that they can play and feel like they can win any given night is not something we as fans are accustomed to.

While Elliott does get the nod on Thursday, this is more than likely the last we will see of him this season, barring some type of injury to Carter Hart. In that type of nightmare scenario, it is refreshing to know the Flyers do have a player like Elliott who can step in. It speaks to the depth of this roster having a guy like Elliott, who could start on a handful of teams in the NHL as the backup goalie. While it certainly would not be ideal, the Flyers can win with Brian Elliott in net. 

With all of that said, let’s hope that Thursday’s game is the last we see of Brian Elliott during this playoff run.