The hockey season can be a long and winding road, but right now the Flyers have gone off-roading and toward a cliff. Eleven days ago, the vibes were high following an emotional, high-intensity win against Cutter Gauthier and the Anaheim Ducks.

One of the reasons the Flyers have struggled so much recently is that their special teams haven’t been too special.

The Flyers and Penguins have been battling it out on the ice since the two franchises entered the league together in 1967. The proximity toward one another led to instant rivalry and hatred between fanbases. From legendary scraps during the regular season and playoffs, whenever Pittsburgh and Philadelphia meet up, it is always must-see television.

Senators GM Steve Staios recently scouted the Canucks, prompting speculation he could be seeking trade targets. Will Flyers look for backup goalie?

The answer for the kill: Be more active in puck pursuit. Try to be more disruptive at center ice rather than let teams set up and create good scoring chances off the rush. Big guys like Rasmus Ristolainen should be warriors in front of the net, clearing things out so goaltenders can see shots better.

Sidney Crosby scored one of Pittsburgh's three power-play goals and the Penguins beat the Philadelphia Flyers 6-3.

Abols suffered a lower-body injury in the first period versus the Rangers on Saturday and will not return. Abols was injured during his second shift of the game, managing to only play 1:19. Abols has three goals and 10 points in 42 games this season. Consider him day-to-day at this time.

The Flyers face the New York Rangers on Saturday before embarking on a three-game road trip through what some are calling the new Death Valley. Whether they will have reinforcements as the team heads west to face the Vegas Golden Knights,