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In the June 27, 1997 issue (Volume 50, Issue 38), Bob McKenzie discusses goaltending, coaching, and skill with a focus on the Detroit Red Wings’ performance. While it’s uncertain if Chris Osgood was the key to Detroit’s Stanley Cup victory that year, coach Scotty Bowman’s choice to go with veteran Mike Vernon proved brilliant. Vernon, aged 34, stopped 102 of 108 shots in a four-game sweep against the Philadelphia Flyers, boasting a remarkable save percentage of 94.4 and earning the Conn Smythe Trophy. He delivered goaltending that the Flyers could only dream of.
Goaltending was just one advantage the Wings had over the Flyers. Detroit’s offensive depth featured four strong lines, each scoring at least three goals in the finals. In contrast, the Flyers struggled with limited production from their lines. Larry Murphy and Nicklas Lidstrom’s solid defense was notable — the Flyers’ stars, Eric Lindros and John LeClair, combined for just two goals and a minus-10 rating, largely due to Lidstrom’s plus-6 and Murphy’s plus-10.
Detroit suffered only one injury during the playoffs (Joey Kocur), whereas the Flyers had 40. The slow returns of Petr Svoboda, Paul Coffey, and Kjell Samuelsson weakened Philadelphia’s blue line significantly. Bowman remarked on the Flyers’ injuries as something he hadn’t seen before.
The Flyers frequently allowed Detroit to score early or late in periods, including nine goals over the finals and in Game 3 alone. The Wings’ skills, speed, and smart play were clear, especially in how they handled the Flyers’ dump-ins, traps, and quick transitions that led to many odd-man rushes.
Ehrmantraut struggled in his first Cup final, initially showing effort but eventually losing focus along with his teammates. Flyers coach Terry Murray’s “suffocation situation” comment deepened the divide between him and his players. Conversely, Bowman and the Wings were aligned, unlike during previous clashes against the New Jersey Devils.
Having endured past failures, Bowman helped the Wings overcome their challengers, while the Flyers faltered at the first signs of trouble. Philly will likely come back stronger from this experience someday. ■
Fan Take: This deep dive into the 1997 Stanley Cup Finals highlights how critical veteran leadership and team depth are in achieving hockey greatness. For fans, it’s a reminder that every component—from goaltending to coaching strategy—matters in shaping the sport’s most unforgettable moments and inspiring future generations.
