Instant reactions: Flyers special teams SINKS bid to extend lead in Stanley Cup Playoff race

Mar 28, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Philadelphia Flyers goaltender Dan Vladar (80) makes a save on Detroit Red Wings left wing David Perron (57) in the second period at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images Watch PHLY Flyers Postgame The Philadelphia Flyers entered Thursday game in Detroit against the Red Wings with a two-point lead on the Columbus Blue Jackets and three up on the New York Islanders for the third seed in the Metropolitan Division playoff standings. But through 40 minutes, some questionable calls, and some penalties that were just stupid, put the Flyers at a special teams disadvantage, as they surrendered three to Detroit’s power play and one short-handed.

Porter Martone did get a PPG in the second to bring Philly within two, but Patrick Kane and Dylan Larkin ensured there would be no inspiring comeback. The only good news to come out of tonight? The Blue Jackets lost in regulation to the Buffalo Sabres, so even with the Islanders winning, Philadelphia “controls its own destiny” in the final three games.

First period Highlight: The Flyers controlled a lot of the beginning of the game before an ill-advised roughing minor against Matvei Michkov put the Red Wings on the power play. Dan Vladar made a great stop on Alex DeBrincat in-tight, but seconds later DeBrincat netted his 40th of the year to put Detroit up 1-0 just 2:28 into the first. After an unsuccessful power play of their own, Philly continued to attack Alex DeBrincat, including an unsuccessful Michigan attempt by Trevor Zegras that Ziggy initially thought went in.

CHRISTIAN DVORAK TIES IT! Dvo’s 18th goal (tying career-high) comes off of getting strong positioning in front and deflecting a Porter Martone slapper from the blueline through John Gibson to even the game at one goal apiece with 7:30 to go in the first. What I want to see next period: Stay out of the freakin’ penalty box.