NHL

Komm Contributes to Win Against Laval Rocket

by
Former Writers
January 26, 2019

Jess Starr via Flickr

NHL

Komm Contributes to Phantoms’ Win Against Laval Rocket

On a night with a couple firsts, the Lehigh Valley Phantoms defeated Laval Rocket 3-2 in regulation. The Phantom’s last four games have gone to overtime, so avoiding it was a refreshing break. New addition to the team Justin Bailey said, “The best part about the little streak we’re on is not only are we getting points every game, but we’re finding a way to win those tight ones. “

Bailey was acquired from the Rochester Americans last week in exchange for Taylor Leier and it didn’t take him long to click with the team. It only took him five games to contribute his first goal with the Phantoms.

Forward Mikhail Vorobyev had his name all over the score sheet with a goal, two assists and two minor penalties. His goal and one of the assists came on the power play, where he has been filling in recently. Vorobyev started this season with the Flyers but hasn’t been focusing on making his way back. “I don’t think about myself. I just try to be a team player.”

First Win, First Star

Branden Komm participated in morning skate with the Reading Royals, the Phantoms’ ECHL affiliate. He wasn’t expecting to be called up and given the start, but Alex Lyon was injured during practice. Komm looked sure in his game, stopping 34 of 36 shots for his first AHL win. As an added bonus, it earned him first star of the game.

Komm’s previous start against the Hershey Bears wasn’t ideal. He was pulled less than seven minutes into the game after allowing three goals on four shots. Getting this win could prove beneficial for his ongoing confidence.

However, Komm didn’t take the spotlight for the win, instead giving credit to his teammates and their skill. “The guys played great in front of me, so I was able to see a lot of the pucks. When the rebounds were there, they cleared it out. It was really a team win.”

His teammates gave him the praise he wouldn’t give himself. Defenseman Philippe Myers said, “I think Komm was our best player tonight. He came in after [Lyon] got hurt this morning and he made some huge stops. Kept us in the game and gave us a chance to win – he did a great job tonight.”

When asked about his mentality coming into the game versus Laval, Komm said, “I just wanted to play fearless this time. At 27-years-old, I feel like I’m a mature goaltender and I can face adversity and overcome it. I feel like that’s what’s been going on my whole career and this year’s been no different.

My, Oh, Myers!

Birthdays can have a lucky effect for hockey players and Philippe Myers scored the opening goal to celebrate. When asked about it, Myers only had credit to give to his team. “Credit to [Colin McDonald] on that goal. Took the goalie’s eyes away and got pucks on net. Really can’t stop what he can’t see.”

It’s clear that his work has him on track to join the Flyers either this season or next, but he focuses on the game in front of him. “I try to bring the same effort every night, so I’ve just been focused on playing more consistent this year.”