Flyers' Dan Vladar Holds Off Red Wings in Tight Win

Goaltender makes 32 saves as Flyers fend off late comeback attempt

Mar. 29, 2026 at 5:39am

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Philadelphia Flyers goaltender Dan Vladar turned aside 32 of 35 shots to lead his team to a 5-3 victory over the Detroit Red Wings on Saturday night. Vladar was protecting a shutout until the Red Wings scored three goals in a 2:31 span late in the third period, but he was able to hold off their comeback attempt and Sean Couturier's empty-netter sealed the win for the Flyers.

Why it matters

The Flyers are in a tight race for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, so Vladar's strong performance was crucial to keeping them in position to reach the postseason. The Red Wings' late surge showed they didn't go down without a fight, making Vladar's ability to preserve the lead all the more impressive.

The details

Vladar was dominant for most of the game, shutting out the Red Wings until the final minutes of the third period. However, Detroit scored three quick goals to make it a one-goal game. Vladar remained composed and turned aside their final push, allowing Couturier to ice the game with an empty-netter. The win was Vladar's fourth in his last six starts, during which he has posted a 2.00 goals-against average and .927 save percentage.

  • Vladar pitched a shutout until the Red Wings scored three goals in a 2:31 span late in the third period.
  • Vladar has won four of his last six games for the Flyers.

The players

Dan Vladar

The Flyers' starting goaltender, who made 32 saves in the win over the Red Wings.

Sean Couturier

The Flyers' forward who scored an empty-net goal to seal the victory.

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What they’re saying

“Vladar was able to fend off their attempt at an equalizer, and Sean Couturier's empty-netter gave the Flyers a little more breathing room to close out the win.”

— RotoWire Staff, Sports Writer

What’s next

The Flyers will look to build on this win when they take on the Dallas Stars on Sunday.

The takeaway

Vladar's strong performance in net was crucial for the Flyers as they continue to battle for a playoff spot in the tight Eastern Conference race. His ability to withstand the Red Wings' late push showed his composure and resilience under pressure.