The NHL's return to the Winter Olympics was a spectacle, and Team USA's thrilling 2-1 victory over Team Canada in the gold medal game was the cherry on top. For the Philadelphia Flyers, the Olympics were more than just a showcase; they were a stage for their three participating players to shine.
One player, in particular, elevated his trade value, while another proved his worth on the international stage. As they return to Philadelphia, the Flyers are hoping this Olympic energy propels them into the final stretch of the 2025-26 NHL season.
The Flyers have faced a rocky start to the year, with a 5-8-4 record since January. They're currently tied for third-to-last in the Eastern Conference with 61 points, alongside the Florida Panthers. Only the New Jersey Devils and New York Rangers sit below them in the standings.
To claw their way back into playoff contention, the Flyers need a hot streak and some help from the teams above them faltering. The Penguins, hindered by Sidney Crosby's injury during the Olympics, and the retooling Islanders could provide that opportunity.
However, the Flyers have struggled to string together wins, managing only two three-game win streaks earlier in the season. To change their fortunes, they need more contributions from their depth players.
The Flyers' immediate challenge is a crucial road back-to-back against the Washington Capitals and the New York Rangers. The Capitals, sitting fifth in the Metro standings, are just four points ahead of the Flyers.
Despite a recent dip in form, with a 5-4-1 record in their last 10 games, the Capitals are regaining key players like P.L. Dubois and are poised for a playoff push.
Meanwhile, the Rangers have been a surprise disappointment. After winning the President's Trophy in 2023-24, they're now languishing at the bottom of the Eastern Conference. With star winger Artemi Panarin traded to the Los Angeles Kings and injuries to Igor Shesterkin and Adam Fox, the Rangers are closer to a top draft pick than a playoff spot.
The Flyers' week concludes with a home game against the Boston Bruins, who are clinging to the second wildcard spot in the East. This game is pivotal, a "four-point" matchup that could significantly impact the Flyers' wildcard aspirations.
The stakes are high for the Flyers, who have a 10.6 percent chance of making the postseason according to Money Puck. A win against the Capitals could boost those odds to 14.92 percent, while a loss would drop them to 7.22 percent.
Every game is critical, and the Flyers need their goaltenders to step up. Sam Ersson, with a .856 save percentage and 3.51 GAA, is expected to start one of the back-to-back games.
While those numbers aren't reassuring, facing a struggling Rangers team might be the perfect opportunity for redemption.
There's still a narrow path to the playoffs for the Flyers, but they need to capitalize on these upcoming games. If they can't, the trade deadline might mark the end of their postseason dreams.