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Flyers look to continue turnaround season after break

Jan 29, 2008 - 2:23 PM Los Angeles (20-29-2) at Philadelphia (27-16-5) 7:00 pm EST

PHILADELPHIA (Ticker) - One year ago, the Philadelphia Flyers finished with the worst record in the NHL. This year, the Flyers will start up on Tuesday following the All-Star break against the Los Angeles Kings in a tie for first place in the Atlantic Division.

The Flyers had just 22 wins and 56 points for the entire 2006-07 season. With 34 games remaining this season, Philadelphia has 27 wins and 59 points.

"That was a goal of ours all year," Philadelphia center R.J. Umberger said. "It's a crucial time now."

Philadelphia went into the break with an 8-1-1 record in its last 10 games, including a 4-3 home victory over Pittsburgh on Thursday.

Los Angeles comes out of the layoff with the lowest point total in the league, but has improved its play in recent weeks. The Kings have won five of their last seven games, including a 3-1 home victory on Thursday over defending Stanley Cup champion Anaheim.

"We're winning as a team, which is most important," center Derek Armstrong said. "We played well with a lead. We're buying into the system and our goalie has been great. When you play with a structure, you have a chance to win every night."

Jason LaBarbera (13-18-1, 2.90 goals-against average) has made the last 12 starts in goal for the Kings, who have seven victories over that span.

Tuesday's game is the only meeting of the season between the teams. Los Angeles defeated the Flyers, 4-3, at home in the only game last season.