The NHL’s Stanley Cup playoffs are scheduled to begin on April 18, 2026, with the Philadelphia Flyers set to face the Pittsburgh Penguins in the first round. This matchup marks a significant return for the Flyers, who clinched their playoff berth with a 3-2 victory over the Carolina Hurricanes.
This will be the Flyers’ 41st playoff appearance in franchise history, and they have not made the playoffs since 2020. Flyers’ CEO Dan Hilferty expressed pride in the team’s return, stating, “Our return to the Stanley Cup Playoffs comes down to two things: the grit and determination of our players and the unwavering commitment of our fans, and I couldn’t be prouder.”
The Flyers secured the third seed in the Metropolitan Division, while the Penguins finished with 98 points in the regular season. Historically, the Flyers and Penguins have met in the playoffs eight times, adding an extra layer of intensity to their upcoming series.
As of April 13, 2026, thirteen of the sixteen NHL playoff spots have been filled. The Buffalo Sabres clinched the Atlantic Division title with a total of 108 points, while the Carolina Hurricanes secured the Eastern Conference title with 111 points after earning a point against the Flyers.
The NHL regular season is set to conclude on April 16, 2026, with six games remaining. The Los Angeles Kings clinched the final playoff berth with a victory against the Seattle Kraken, rounding out the playoff picture.
This marks the first time since 2018 that playoff hockey returns to Philadelphia, and the excitement is palpable among fans and players alike. The Flyers’ journey back to the playoffs has been a long one, and they are eager to make an impact this postseason.
With the playoffs approaching, observers are keenly watching how the matchups will unfold, especially the rivalry between the Flyers and Penguins. The anticipation builds as teams prepare for the intense competition ahead.
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