| Scoring | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | F |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHI | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 |
| PIT | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
Flyers, First Round Game 1, beat Penguins 3–2 at PPG Paints Arena on April 18, 2026.
The Philadelphia Flyers drew first blood in this playoff series, defeating the Pittsburgh Penguins 3-2 in Game 1 of the First Round. With this win, the Flyers now lead the best-of-seven series 1-0. Both teams came into this game vying for an early edge, and the Flyers have successfully positioned themselves for a strong series ahead. The pressure is now on the Penguins to respond as they aim to level the series in the upcoming contests.
The pivotal moment came in the third period when Travis Sanheim scored for the Flyers at the 10:00 mark, giving his team a 2-1 lead. This goal shifted the momentum completely in favor of Philadelphia, adding a surge of confidence as they pushed into the last stretch of the game. Just over seven minutes later, Porter Martone extended the lead to 3-1, putting the Penguins in a tough position. Although Bryan Rust pulled one back for the Penguins in the final seconds, it wasn't enough to change the outcome.
Jamie Drysdale opened the scoring for the Flyers in the second period, converting a setup from Trevor Zegras and Denver Barkey. The Flyers' backend contributed significantly as Rasmus Ristolainen also had a hand in both the second and third goals, showcasing a strong two-way performance. For the Penguins, Evgeni Malkin was instrumental, scoring their first goal and assisting on Rust's late tally, proving once again his importance in the lineup. Malkin, along with Tommy Novak and Rickard Rakell, displayed tenacity, but their efforts fell just short.
In total, the Flyers outshot the Penguins 20 to 17, while both teams struggled on the power play, failing to capitalize in three opportunities each.
Game 2 will serve as a crucial match for the Penguins, who need to recalibrate quickly to avoid falling into an early 0-2 hole. As this playoff series unfolds, expect adjustments from both teams as they strive for control. The Flyers, riding the wave of their first victory, look to extend their lead and further put the pressure on the Penguins.
Flyers won 3–2.
The final score was Flyers 3, Penguins 2.
Jamie Drysdale, Porter Martone, Travis Sanheim.
Bryan Rust, Evgeni Malkin.
Dan Vladar made 16 saves on 18 shots (.889 save percentage).
Stuart Skinner made 17 saves on 20 shots (.850 save percentage).
At PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, the Penguins home rink.
Have a different question? Ask the Oracle — it answers from this season's box scores.