Flyers Aim to Take 2-0 Lead Over Rival Penguins

Philadelphia looks to build on Game 1 victory in pivotal playoff matchup

Apr. 20, 2026 at 1:25am

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A fragmented, geometric painting in bold colors depicting the movement and energy of a hockey game between the Philadelphia Flyers and Pittsburgh Penguins.The intense rivalry between the Flyers and Penguins is captured in a cubist-inspired illustration that deconstructs the action on the ice.Today in Pittsburgh

The Philadelphia Flyers defeated the Pittsburgh Penguins 3-2 in Game 1 of their Stanley Cup Playoffs series, with goals from Travis Sanheim and Porter Martone in the third period. The Flyers now look to take a commanding 2-0 series lead as the teams meet again in Pittsburgh.

Why it matters

This is a high-stakes playoff matchup between two longtime rivals from Pennsylvania. The Flyers are looking to build momentum and take control of the series, while the Penguins will be desperate to even things up before the series shifts to their home arena.

The details

In the Game 1 victory, the Flyers got goals from veteran defenseman Travis Sanheim and rookie forward Porter Martone in the third period to overcome a 2-1 deficit. Penguins star Sidney Crosby and Flyers defenseman Travis Sanheim were both penalized late in the game, forcing them off the ice in the final minutes. Evgeni Malkin had a goal and an assist for the Penguins in a losing effort.

  • The teams will face off in Game 2 on Monday, April 20, 2026 in Pittsburgh.
  • Game 1 was played on Saturday, April 18, 2026.

The players

Travis Sanheim

A veteran defenseman for the Philadelphia Flyers who scored the go-ahead goal in the third period of Game 1.

Porter Martone

A 19-year-old rookie forward for the Philadelphia Flyers who scored the game-winning goal in his playoff debut in Game 1.

Sidney Crosby

The star center for the Pittsburgh Penguins who was penalized late in Game 1 for slashing.

Evgeni Malkin

The veteran forward for the Pittsburgh Penguins who had a goal and an assist in the Game 1 loss.

Dan Vladar

The goaltender for the Philadelphia Flyers who made key saves down the stretch to preserve the Game 1 victory.

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What they’re saying

“I think I understand the level that's needed to play in the playoffs. I understand the challenge ahead and my job, playing against top guys.”

— Travis Sanheim, Flyers Defenseman

“That's going to be part of a series. I think we've got to stay out of it a little bit more and trust that when they do it and try to start it up, that they're going to get penalized for it. But that's more something I think they're looking to do. We've got to stay out of it and trust they'll be undisciplined.”

— Sidney Crosby, Penguins Center

“Everyone's been great. I think we were all pretty excited going into this game, being able to play in the playoffs. For me, it's my 10th NHL game. It's pretty special, and it's an opportunity you can't pass up.”

— Porter Martone, Flyers Forward

What’s next

The Flyers and Penguins will face off in Game 2 on Monday, April 20, 2026 in Pittsburgh. The Flyers will look to take a commanding 2-0 series lead, while the Penguins will aim to even the series before it shifts back to Philadelphia.

The takeaway

This hard-fought playoff matchup between the Flyers and Penguins highlights the intensity and rivalry between these two Pennsylvania teams. The Flyers' ability to grind out a Game 1 victory on the road sets them up well, but the Penguins will undoubtedly make adjustments and come out with more urgency in Game 2 to even the series.