Flyers' Jamie Drysdale drops the gloves for the first time

The 23-year-old defenseman stood up for a teammate in a heated rivalry game against the Penguins.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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In a heated game against the Pittsburgh Penguins, Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Jamie Drysdale dropped the gloves for the first time in his NHL career. After Drysdale's defense partner Cam York was leveled by Penguins forward Avery Hayes, the 5-foot-11, 185-pound Drysdale immediately rushed in to defend his teammate, grabbing Hayes and engaging in a brief fight. Though Drysdale is not known as an enforcer, he was praised for sticking up for a teammate in the intense rivalry game, which the Flyers went on to win 4-3 in a shootout.

Why it matters

Drysdale's willingness to drop the gloves and defend a teammate is seen as a sign of his growth as a player and commitment to the team. The Flyers have struggled this season, but Drysdale's emergence as a well-rounded defenseman and team leader is a bright spot for the franchise.

The details

In the second period, Cam York was hit hard by Penguins forward Avery Hayes behind the Flyers' net. Immediately, Drysdale rushed in, grabbed Hayes, and the two players dropped their gloves and exchanged punches. Drysdale landed one punch before the officials stepped in to break up the fight. Though Drysdale is not known as an enforcer, his actions were praised by teammates and fans as an example of his willingness to stand up for his team.

  • The incident occurred during the second period of the Flyers' 4-3 shootout win over the Penguins on February 5, 2026.

The players

Jamie Drysdale

A 23-year-old defenseman for the Philadelphia Flyers who is known for his well-rounded game, but not as an enforcer. This was the first fight of his NHL career.

Cam York

Drysdale's defense partner on the Flyers, who was hit hard by Penguins forward Avery Hayes, prompting Drysdale to come to his defense.

Avery Hayes

A forward for the Pittsburgh Penguins who delivered the hit on Cam York that sparked the fight with Drysdale.

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What they’re saying

“It was first — first one ever. It felt good. I mean, a few guys have stepped up for me and gotten in there for me and that's kind of just, a lot of guys on the team have done it for other guys on the team, so I figured it was just my turn.”

— Jamie Drysdale (NBC Sports Philadelphia)

What’s next

The Flyers will continue their season, hoping Drysdale's willingness to defend his teammates will help spark the team to more success.

The takeaway

Drysdale's first career fight, despite not being known as an enforcer, shows his growth as a player and commitment to his team. In a difficult season for the Flyers, Drysdale's emergence as a well-rounded defenseman and team leader is a positive sign for the franchise's future.