Flyers clinch first playoff berth in 6 years with shootout win over Hurricanes

Tyson Foerster's shootout goal seals comeback victory for Philadelphia

Apr. 14, 2026 at 8:49am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the intense action of a hockey shootout, with the players' movements and the puck's trajectory fractured into overlapping planes of orange, black, red, and white.The Flyers' dramatic shootout victory over the Hurricanes clinches their first playoff berth in six years, reigniting hope for the team and its passionate fanbase.Philadelphia Today

The Philadelphia Flyers clinched their first playoff berth in six years on Monday, defeating the Carolina Hurricanes 3-2 in a shootout. Tyson Foerster scored the lone goal in the four-round shootout to give the Flyers the come-from-behind victory.

Why it matters

The Flyers' return to the playoffs ends a lengthy postseason drought, providing a boost of excitement for the team's fans and signaling a potential turnaround after several down seasons. The win also keeps the Flyers in the hunt for a higher playoff seed in the Eastern Conference.

The details

After falling behind 2-0 early, the Flyers rallied to tie the game in the third period and force overtime. In the shootout, Foerster was the only player to score, sealing the victory for Philadelphia.

  • The game was played on Monday, April 14, 2026.
  • This was the Flyers' final regular season game before the playoffs.

The players

Tyson Foerster

A 24-year-old forward for the Philadelphia Flyers who scored the game-winning shootout goal.

Carolina Hurricanes

The Flyers' opponent, an NHL team based in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Philadelphia Flyers

An NHL team based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania that clinched their first playoff berth in 6 years with the win.

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What they’re saying

“This is a huge moment for our team and our fans. We've worked hard to get back to the playoffs and it feels great to finally get over that hump.”

— Tyson Foerster, Forward, Philadelphia Flyers

What’s next

The Flyers will now await their first-round playoff opponent, which will be determined by the final standings in the Eastern Conference.

The takeaway

The Flyers' return to the playoffs after a six-year absence is a testament to the team's resilience and the dedication of their players and fans. This postseason berth could mark the start of a new era of success for the franchise.