Steve Mason has picked a good time to go into a zone.
Just like during last year's run to the playoffs, the 28-year-old goalie has been a difference-maker, keeping the Flyers afloat in the Eastern Conference's crowded wild-card race.
"It's an important stretch here," Mason said after Saturday's feisty 2-1 overtime loss to powerful Washington, "and you have to bring your best."
In his last three starts, Mason has done just that, compiling a 0.96 goals-against average and a .969 save percentage, helping the Flyers get five of a possible six points.
Mason, a potential unrestricted free agent who struggled earlier in the season, says his main focus is getting the Flyers into the playoffs for a second straight year.