Legion of Doom: Flyers' Dominant Trio

0:00On March 20th, here's the latest surrounding the NHL. The Legion of Doomline transformed the Philadelphia Flyers, starting in the lockout short in 1994-95 season. It featured John LaClaire on left wing, Eric Lindros at center, and Mikhail Rinberg on right wing. Formed right after a trade that brought LaClaire to the team, they quickly became known for their tough forechecking and scoring power. That first year, the trio sparked the Flyers to the playoffs for the first time in six seasons. Lindros tied for the league lead in points while LaClaire and Rinberg ranked high too. Lindros earned the heart trophy as league MVP and the Lester B Pearson award, plus both he and LaClaire made the first All-Star team. Fans and opponents buzzed about their dominance, with the nickname sticking from broadcast or gene heart. Coach Terry Murray had paired them to win battles in the corners, but their goalscoring bonus thrilled everyone. They carried the team past strong foes like Buffalo in the first round. The next two seasons brought more highs and early lows. LaClaire hit 50 goals twice.

1:04Lindros posted 115 points once, but injuries hit Rinberg and Lindros. Forda upset them in the playoffs one year, and in 1996-97 they reached a Stanley Cup final only to get swept by. Detroit's defense, though the line lasted just two and a half years before Rinberg's trade, their short run left the lasting mark on Flyers history and what if debates among hockey fans.