Penguins Coach Dan Muse Previews Playoff Matchup

Penguins head coach speaks to media ahead of first-round series against Flyers

Apr. 18, 2026 at 4:50pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting the intense action and rivalry of a hockey game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Philadelphia Flyers, with the players' movements and the energy of the matchup expressed through the fragmented, angular composition.The Penguins-Flyers rivalry is set to reach a fever pitch in their first-round playoff clash, as the two teams battle for a chance to advance in the postseason.Today in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh Penguins head coach Dan Muse addressed the media on the eve of the team's first-round playoff matchup against the Philadelphia Flyers. Muse discussed the team's preparation, key matchups, and what the Penguins need to do to advance in the postseason.

Why it matters

The Penguins-Flyers rivalry is one of the most intense in the NHL, and this playoff series is sure to be a hard-fought battle between two talented teams. As the Penguins look to make another deep playoff run, Muse's comments provide insight into the team's mindset and strategy heading into the series.

The details

Muse touched on a number of topics in his media availability, including the team's health status, the challenge of facing the Flyers' top scorers, and the importance of special teams play. He emphasized the need for the Penguins to play a disciplined, physical brand of hockey in order to advance.

  • The Penguins and Flyers will face off in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series on April 18, 2026.

The players

Dan Muse

Head coach of the Pittsburgh Penguins, leading the team in its quest for another Stanley Cup championship.

Pittsburgh Penguins

A professional ice hockey team based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and a member of the National Hockey League (NHL).

Philadelphia Flyers

A professional ice hockey team based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and a longtime rival of the Pittsburgh Penguins in the NHL.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We know the Flyers are a tough, physical team, and we're going to have to match that intensity if we want to come out on top in this series.”

— Dan Muse, Head Coach, Pittsburgh Penguins

“Our special teams are going to be crucial - we have to win the battle on the power play and penalty kill if we want to advance.”

— Dan Muse, Head Coach, Pittsburgh Penguins

What’s next

The Penguins and Flyers will face off in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series on April 18, 2026 in Pittsburgh.

The takeaway

With the long-standing rivalry between the Penguins and Flyers, this first-round playoff matchup is sure to be a hard-fought, intense series. Penguins head coach Dan Muse emphasized the need for his team to play a disciplined, physical brand of hockey and win the special teams battle in order to advance to the next round.