Pronger and Carter done for series? Who’ll be in net for Flyers? Isles retain Nabokov’s rights … Laich to 1st line

Mark Easson

14 years ago

Tim Panaccio of CSNPhilly: A source close to the Flyers said that Chris Pronger won’t be in the lineup for the rest of the series. Pronger is still experiencing pain in his fractured hand, and can’t really take contact to the area. Jeff Carter is also not expected back as he has a severely sprained MCL in his right knee, he’s been wearing a brace.

Sam Carchidi of the Philadelphia Inquirer: Flyers coach Peter Laviolette wouldn’t say after last night’s game who would be the starting goalie for Game 6 on Sunday. The Flyers have used 3 goalies so far as Michael Leighton replaced Brian Boucher in last night’s game. “I’m going to sleep on that one and probably give you nothing,” he said.

Katie Strang of Newsday: The NY Islanders have exercised the option of Evgeni Nabokov, and will retain his rights for next season.

Tom Jones of the St. Petersburgh Times: Some are questioning if Lightning forward Steven Stamkos is injured. When asked if he was Stamkos answered, “Everything feels good.” He only has 1 point this series, and has missed a couple ‘optional practices’ this week, something he rarely does.

Katie Carrera of the Washington Post: Brooks Laich will be on a line with Alex Ovechkin and Nicklas Backstrom for Game 5. Ovie will move to the right side. From coach Bruce Boudreau, “I like for short periods of time because Alex is more used to playing left wing,” Boudreau said. “But Brooks is so responsible, you can play him anywhere and he’s going to make that line better. So I like that aspect of it. But right now, with Mike Knuble out, it makes for the better fit . Who knows, it might change.”

Katie Carrera of the Washington Post: Mike Knuble won’t be able to go in Game 5 for the Capitals. Knuble was hit on the hand by a Mike Green shot in Game 3.