Struggling Atkinson snaps streak with breakthrough performance

When Atkinson came to the Flyers in 2021, Atkinson was a key piece offensively. His first season saw him deliver a 50 point season on 23 goals and 27 assists. Last season, Atkinson suffered a devastating injury which caused him to miss the entire season.

Atkinson was thrilled to be able to work with head coach John Tortorella who helped Atkinson become a star in Columbus, which included a 2018-19 season that saw Atkinson record 69 points and 40 goals.

To start the season, Atkinson looked to pick up right where he left off as he scored a goal in the Flyers season opener. Since then, however, offense has been few and far between for Atkinson.

Going into Saturday night Atkinson was riding a 26 game streak without a goal. Atkinson this season has been visibly frustrated and has put an immense amount of pressure on himself.

Last night, it all came together for Atkinson. His night started off in the first period as he officially snapped his streak with a powerplay goal in the first period to give the Flyers an early lead. Atkinson described the feeling as getting a monkey off his back.

Atkinson was flying around the ice all night and most importantly, playing with a smile on his face. Atkinson put the cherry on top not only for him, but for the Flyers as he netted a second powerplay goal in the second period to push the Flyers lead to 2-0, a lead they would sustain all night.

If Atkinson can keep the momentum going, the Flyers will continue to find success on offense and the powerplay with the addition of Jamie Drysdale.