Flyers need much more from Claude Giroux

Claude Giroux led all Flyers with 86 points during the regular season, third most in the NHL.
Credit: Getty Images

If Claude Giroux really is an elite forward in the NHL, it might be time for him to start making an impact on the ice against the Rangers.

With the Flyers trailing New York 2-1 in the series, Giroux had his first two shots on goal of the entire series in a 4-1 loss Tuesday night.

And though he had an assist on Mark Streit’s goal in the game, the Rangers defense has really kept the Flyers’ leading scorer quiet.

“I think Giroux worked really hard,” Flyers coach Craig Berube said, “and I think he got a few shots, but I think with the power plays and stuff they have to be better and they will be better.”

The Flyers’ typically potent power play was silent Tuesday, going 0-for-5, with Giroux and the six other 20 goal scorers unable to get anything going against Henrik Lundqvist.

“He’s a good goalie,” the Flyers captain said. “We knew that coming in the series and we just need to keep shooting the puck and they’re going to start going in.”

Giroux was also the recipient of two cheap shots, one coming from former Flyers enforcer Daniel Carcillo, and each gave the Flyers a power play chance.

It is clear the Rangers defense is singling out Giroux. In Game 4, the Flyers must find a way to get him in the mix, or open things up for his teammates.

“We’ll be ready for game four,” Giroux said. “We’re going to tie up this series and go back to New York. We just have to stay confident. That’s why it’s playoffs. It’s exciting. We’re going to come off even better in game four.”