Flyers lose Emery for six weeks

First, the Flyers lost their coach. Now, their starting goaltender is out for the next six weeks.

Ray Emery will undergo surgery today to repair a torn muscle in his lower abdominal wall, according to Flyers GM Paul Holmgren. Brian Boucher started last night and allowed two goals on 24 shots.

“I suppose you could cry over your goaltender, but that’s not going to do any good,” said Flyers coach Peter Laviolette.

Entering last night, the Flyers had lost five straight games, with Emery posting a 5.33 goals-against average in his last five starts. The team fired head coach John Stevens last Friday.

The Flyers also recalled goalie Johan Backlund and right wing David Laliberte yesterday from their AHL affiliate, Adirondack.

Backlund, who appeared in two preseason games, said he would be ready to fill in, if needed.

“You never know until you’ve played the first game, but I’m here now. I feel ready,” Backlund said.