Painful though it may be to watch for Flyer fans, it is nonetheless fascinating to see the impact ex-Flyers have as the NHL playoffs move on.
Nothing could hurt more than watching Mike Richards and Jeff Carter hoist the Stanley Cup above their heads last June for the Los Angeles Kings.
Well, the Kings are moving on again to the Western Conference finals for a run at a second Cup, and this time, it’s another ex-Flyer who made the difference: Justin Williams.
“Willy” scored both goals in Tuesday’s Game 7, 2-1, clincher over San Jose, as the Kings will face the winner of the Chicago-Detroit series.
Aside from the obvious that Williams could have had a hat trick – he had numerous scoring chances – he also he improved his reputation as a legit Game 7 hero during the playoffs. Williams now has five goals and four assists for nine career points in Game 7s. He is 4-0 in Game 7s, going back to his days with the Flyers, then Carolina and L.A., winning a Cup with each.
He had gone eight consecutive playoff games without a goal until Tuesday night.
“I'm going to have to play a few more Game 7s, and have a little more success, to get that [Mr. Game 7] name,” Williams told the Orange County Register.
“But I'm certainly happy I was able to contribute. Goals have been tough to come by for me in this series, so I was happy to help out and get a couple.”