Photo Courtesy of Kate Frese
PHILADELPHIA — Despite a two-point effort from Michael Del Zotto and a season-high 44 shots on goal, the Flyers could not figure out the Columbus Blue Jackets for the fourth time this season on Tuesday, losing 5-2.
Matt Calvert also added two goals (including an empty-netter) in the third period, while Curtis McElhinney made 42 saves — the first time all season he saved over 40 pucks.
The Blue Jackets (25-27-3) held a two-goal lead through much of the first two periods, courtesy of goals from James Wisniewski and Ryan Johansen in the game's first seven minutes. Goals from Wayne Simmonds and Del Zotto within a 1:47 span late in the second stanza tied the game, until the Jackets blew the game open in the third. Simmonds' goal — his 22nd of the season — continues a five-game point streak.
Ray Emery turned away 20 of 24 shots, allowing four goals to the Jackets for the second-consecutive game.
Just three power play chances were featured in the game between both teams, and the Flyers (24-23-10) were scoreless on both of their opportunities. The Jackets were able to capitalize on their lone man-advantage, courtesy of Wisniewski.
The loss — the first in regulation for the Flyers since Jan. 19 — ends their consecutive points streak at nine games. As a result, they still sit six points behind Boston for the Eastern Conference's final playoff spot.
Scott Hartnell was also recognized during a first period TV timeout in honor of his 1,000th-career NHL game, and received a standing ovation from the Wells Fargo Center crowd. Flyers Charities also presented him with a $10,000 check for his #HartnellDown Foundation.
The Flyers next take the ice Thursday, against the Buffalo Sabres — featuring Eric Desjardins' well-deserved induction into the Flyers Hall of Fame in a pregame ceremony. Stay tuned to Flyerdelphia for full coverage.
Rob Riches is a contributor to Flyerdelphia. Follow him on Twitter @Riches61.
