Flyers Clinch First Playoff Spot Since 2020

Orange-and-black team celebrates return to postseason after 6-year drought

Apr. 14, 2026 at 5:18am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in vibrant neon orange, black, and yellow hues, capturing the raw emotion and movement of a hockey celebration, with the players' forms dissolving into energetic brushstrokes.The Flyers' long-awaited return to the playoffs sparks a celebratory explosion of color and energy in the City of Brotherly Love.Philadelphia Today

The Philadelphia Flyers clinched their first playoff berth since 2020 with a dramatic shootout victory over the Carolina Hurricanes. Goaltender Dan Vladar made the decisive save to secure the win, sparking a celebratory mob from his teammates on the ice.

Why it matters

The Flyers' return to the playoffs marks a significant turnaround for the franchise, which had missed the postseason for six consecutive seasons prior. The team's loyal fanbase is eager to see the orange-and-black back in the hunt for the Stanley Cup after a prolonged drought.

The details

In the shootout, Vladar turned aside Carolina's fourth attempt to clinch the victory for the Flyers. The win capped off a hard-fought season that saw the team battle through injuries and inconsistency to earn a spot in the playoffs.

  • The Flyers clinched their playoff berth on April 13, 2026.

The players

Dan Vladar

The Flyers' starting goaltender who made the decisive save in the shootout to secure the playoff-clinching victory.

Philadelphia Flyers

The NHL hockey team based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania that is returning to the playoffs for the first time since 2020.

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What they’re saying

“This is what we've been working for all season. To see the joy on the guys' faces, it makes it all worth it.”

— Dan Vladar, Flyers Goaltender

What’s next

The Flyers will await their first-round playoff opponent, which will be determined in the final days of the regular season.

The takeaway

The Flyers' return to the playoffs after a six-year absence is a testament to the team's resilience and the unwavering support of their passionate fanbase in Philadelphia.