The Pittsburgh Penguins face off against the Philadelphia Flyers in Game 1 of the 2026 NHL Playoffs, marking their eighth postseason meeting. The Flyers lead the series 4-3 historically.
Key points
Penguins and Flyers meet in Game 1 of the 2026 NHL Playoffs
This is the eighth postseason meeting between the two teams
Flyers lead the series 4-3 historically
Penguins have an elite offense averaging 3.54 goals per game
Dan Muse is the first-year head coach of the Penguins
The Battle of Pennsylvania will take center stage in the first round of the 2026 NHL Playoffs, reigniting one of the most physical rivalries in professional sports. This latest series will mark the eighth postseason meeting between the Penguins and Flyers with Philadelphia holding a slight 4–3 edge.
For a veteran Pittsburgh core led by Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Kris Letang and Erik Karlsson, this return to the playoffs is a prime opportunity to prove the Pens' championship window remains wide open. Under first-year head coach Dan Muse, the Penguins had an elite offense that averaged 3.54 goals per game in the regular season.
Q&A
What is the history of the Penguins vs. Flyers playoff series?
The Penguins and Flyers have met in the playoffs eight times, with the Flyers holding a 4-3 edge in those series.
Who are the key players for the Penguins in the 2026 playoffs?
Key players for the Penguins include Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Kris Letang, and Erik Karlsson.
What was the Penguins' offensive performance during the regular season?
The Penguins averaged 3.54 goals per game during the regular season, showcasing an elite offensive performance.
Who is the head coach of the Penguins for the 2026 playoffs?
The head coach of the Penguins for the 2026 playoffs is Dan Muse, who is in his first year with the team.
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The Flyers enter this matchup after snapping their own playoff drought under first-year head coach Rick Tocchet. Philadelphia's attack is spearheaded by Travis Konecny and Trevor Zegras, both of whom crossed the 65-point threshold this season to lead a resurgent offense.
Now, both teams will look to begin their quest for the Stanley Cup with a statement win at PPG Paints Arena.
Follow along right here for live updates, highlights and analysis throughout Game 1 between the Penguins and Flyers.
Penguins vs. Flyers score
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Penguins vs. Flyers live updates, highlights from Game 1
**7:00 p.m.:**The Pittsburgh Penguins are back in the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time since 2022, and the opponent is the perfect opener for Dan Muse and co.
Tonight, we have Game 1 of the Battle of Pennsylvania, with the Philadelphia Flyers coming into PPG Paints Arena; Philadelphia also snapped a playoff drought under a first year head coach in Rick Tocchet.
Stay tuned for live updates and highlights throughout the night as Pittsbugrh gets its playoff campaign started.
How to watch Penguins vs. Flyers Game 1: TV channel, live stream
Penguins vs. Flyers will air locally on SportsNet Pittsburgh. Game 1 will also be available to stream on SNP 360 and fubo.
Fubo offers a free trial for new subscribers, so you can try the service before you buy. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox and 100-plus top channels of live TV and sports without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.)
Penguins vs. Flyers Game 1 start time
Date: Saturday, April 18
Time: 8 p.m. ET
Penguins vs. Flyers is scheduled to start at 8 p.m. ET on Saturday, April 18. Game 1 will be played at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh.
