The Philadelphia Flyers have been on quite the rollercoaster this season. They kicked things off with a surprising bang, only to hit a rough patch around the new year that had many thinking their playoff hopes were dashed. But since coming back from the Olympic break, the Flyers have found their groove again, winning six of their last ten games before heading out on a crucial West Coast road trip.
And what a trip it was. In just four days, the Flyers managed to take down the Anaheim Ducks, Los Angeles Kings, and San Jose Sharks-all teams with playoff aspirations.
Those victories weren’t just run-of-the-mill; they included thrilling overtime and shootout wins against the Ducks and Kings, respectively. Now sitting at 80 points through 69 games, the Flyers are just five points shy of a playoff spot.
It’s time to reconsider counting them out. Even The Athletic’s Sean McIndoe has had a change of heart after witnessing their West Coast success.
He points out that while the Flyers seemed out of the race midseason, their recent form has put them back in the conversation. Winning nine of their last 12 games, they’re not just hanging on-they’re fighting.
With 13 games left, the Flyers have a real shot at making a push for a Wild Card spot or even third place in the Metropolitan Division. Being in the 80-point range puts them in a decent position to make a run.
And as McIndoe notes, their upcoming matchups against the Detroit Red Wings-three times before season’s end-could be pivotal. The Red Wings, just one point ahead with 84 points through 70 games, are also vying for a playoff spot.
Wins against Detroit would not only boost the Flyers but also hinder a direct competitor.
The schedule doesn’t ease up, though. The Flyers will face playoff contenders like the Columbus Blue Jackets on March 24, New York Islanders on April 3, Boston Bruins on April 5, and Montreal Canadiens on April 14.
Philadelphia's momentum is palpable. Sure, some might argue that their recent wins came against teams from the less formidable Pacific Division, but victories are victories.
The real test will be against a Columbus team revitalized under head coach Rick Bowness since January. The Flyers have shown they can hang tough, and as the season winds down, they’re poised to keep fans on the edge of their seats.