Flyers defeat Devils to boost playoff chances

In a decisive NHL matchup on April 7, 2026, the Philadelphia Flyers defeated the New Jersey Devils 5-1, significantly bolstering their playoff hopes. Trevor Zegras led the charge for the Flyers, scoring two goals within the first four minutes of the game, with assists from Travis Sanheim and Owen Tippett, followed by a power play goal later in the period from Zegras with help from Porter Martone and Jamie Drysdale.

Cody Glass managed to score for the Devils at 12:12 in the first period, but the Flyers quickly regained control. Tyson Foerster added two goals in the second period, with Matvei Michkov assisting on both, and Nick Seeler sealed the game with an empty-net goal in the final minutes.

The Flyers' penalty kill was crucial, successfully defending against three power play attempts from the Devils, with goaltender Dan Vladar recording a .958 save percentage. This victory improves the Flyers' playoff odds to 70.32%, as they aim for a return to postseason play, having made a significant turnaround since the Olympic break.