The hockey season came to a close Sunday night, with the Carolina Hurricanes lifting the Stanley Cup. I never actively root for any team other than the Flyers but I sure was rooting AGAINST the Vegas Golden Knights. Both teams featured former Flyers and both coaches have a Flyers connection. So why was I rooting AGAINST the Knights? The Hurricanes, after all, swept my Flyers in the second round.
I really don’t hold any grudge against Torts, he had just worn out his welcome in Philadelphia. He’s a coach with a shelf life and he was past his expiration in Philly. I was initially very happy that Torts was brought in, but he gets old, fast. I know the VGK love him now, but get back to me after your super star players have been doing bag skates in training camp.
As for Carter Hart, again I was thrilled when the Flyers signed him. I sweated every bump and bruise. Then his involvement with the World Junior scandal came to light and I was horrified. If you have been living under a rock and want to know what happened, there is an excellent documentary called ‘Code of Misconduct’ that provides a lot of insight. In short, the judge was not able to consider the texts of the players that basically show them abusing a young drunk woman.
Don’t take my word for it, watch the documentary yourself. Both Carter Hart and his fellow Golden Knight Brett Howden covered for each other and perjured themselves. I have no idea why they weren’t charged with perjury but they committed it.
The documentary also explores the dark side of this sport I love. See also: Joel Quenville and Mike Babcock.
As for the Hurricanes, they have several former Flyers as well. Sean Walker, DLO and last but not least, Ghost. For that trade a certain previous GM who shall remain nameless can rot in H E double hockey sticks.
This was still a successful season for my Flyers. After being left for dead they made the playoffs. And then against all odds they won a round, sending the Pittsburgh Penguins back to the old folks home.
It was also a huge success for me personally. Rick Tocchet is one of my all time favorite players, as is our current GM Danny Briere. They combined to get my boys to the playoffs in one season. I also got to see the AVs swept out of the playoffs, and I’m sure that made my evil ex fiancé cry.
So yeah, I may or may not be wearing my ghost bear tee shirt today. Hint…I am.
By: Phyllis Ceci (@flyersfan1129)