In the absence of Carter Hart, whose health is being reassessed daily, the Philadelphia Flyers had no choice but to trust Samuel Ersson in front of the net, and the young goaltender responded in the best way possible.
The 24-year-old Swede had a very difficult start to the season, but got back on track by blocking 21 shots in the Buffalo Sabres’ 5-1 win on Friday night at KeyBank Center.
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The two teams met on Wednesday in Philadelphia, and things went much less smoothly for the home team. Hart suffered a “mid-body” injury, the Flyers confirmed, and Ersson had to take over. The Sabers took advantage of the opportunity and scored two goals on nine shots against the rookie.
Overall, the Flyers were significantly stronger on Friday. They gave the Sabers no time to react, scoring three times on goal in the first period. Travis Konecny scored his ninth goal of the season and former Laval Rocket defenseman Louie Belbedio opened his National League tally.
Scott Laughton, Garnet Hathaway and Bobby Brink also caused a stir, while Henri Jokiharju ensured a timid response from the local heroes.
The encounter was difficult for Sabers goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, who was favored over Quebecer Devon Levi by head coach Don Granato. The Finn allowed five goals on 19 shots.