Beating the Flyers
To Beat Philly:
1) Minimize the penalties; The Flyers absolutely killed New Jersey on the PP, and many of the four wins they had were close games.
2) Pay close attention to Roenick-Zhamnov-Amonte line; this line was Philly's best. Yes, they have depth, but these three did the most damage to the Devils.
3) T.O.'s big bodies have to mind Primeau; in last year's playoff meeting Keith Primeau ran wild, especially with Nik Antropov injured. I say switch Antropov to centre to counter big Keith Primeau. You don't want to be checking Primeau with Reichel, Stajan, Francis or Nieuwendyk...
4) Keep scoring first; The Leafs scored first in all seven games vs. Ottawa, and the Flyers tallied first in all five games vs. New Jersey. Something's gotta give. If Leafs keep it up, they'll win.
5) Clear the front for Eddie; If The Eagle can see it, he'll stop it. Big guys on the Flyers like Handzus, Primeau, LeClair etc. will be in front trying to bother Ed Belfour. Leafs D like Marchment, Klee and McCabe have to play big and clear the front. I would consider a move of Kaberle out of the lineup in favour of Calle Johnasson, Kaberle doesn't move people well and was awful vs. Philly last year in the playoff loss.
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Draft shmaft! -- Cliff Fletcher
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