Flyers explode in second period, push Penguins to brink of sweep
PHILADELPHIA, PA — The Flyers flipped the game in minutes Wednesday night, dropping three goals in the second period and taking full control against the Penguins.
What happened:
Trevor Zegras, Rasmus Ristolainen, and Nick Seeler all scored in the second, with the Flyers putting up three goals on just four shots in a stretch that completely changed the game.
Dan Vladar came up big with 28 saves, holding it down even after appearing to injure his hand or wrist late in the third. On the other side, Stuart Skinner struggled, allowing three goals during that second-period surge.
The Penguins struck first early, with Evgeni Malkin scoring on the power play just over four minutes in. The goal tied him with Mario Lemieux for the most postseason power-play goals in franchise history.
Things got heated in the second period, with multiple penalties handed out after a scuffle between Bryan Rust and Travis Konecny.
How it closed:
Noah Cates added a power-play goal in the third to extend the lead, and Owen Tippett sealed it with an empty-netter. Erik Karlsson briefly cut it to one with a power-play goal, but the Flyers answered right back.
Why it matters:
This was the Flyers’ first home playoff win since 2016 and their first home playoff game since 2018. Now, they’re one win away from their first playoff series victory since 2020.
And it’s not just a win — it’s dominance. Philly is now on the verge of sweeping the Penguins out of the playoffs.
What’s next:
Game 4 is set for Saturday in Philadelphia. The Flyers need one more to close it out. The Penguins need four straight to stay alive.
What to watch:
All eyes are on Vladar. If that hand or wrist injury is serious, it could change everything heading into Game 4.
