Philadelphia Flyers Claim Win Over New York Rangers
The Philadelphia Flyers embodied the timeless mantra—"it's not over until it's over"—in their thrilling 3-2 overtime victory over the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden on Thursday night. Down 2-0 early and facing a determined Rangers squad that had jumped out to a lead, the Flyers refused to fold. They clawed back, tied it late, survived a heart-stopping moment in the dying seconds of regulation, and then sealed the deal in extra time. This wasn't just a win; it was a statement of resilience from a team that continues to fight for every point in a competitive Metropolitan Division race.
The Rangers struck first in the opening period when Sam Carrick found the back of the net, giving New York a 1-0 lead after 20 minutes. They doubled their advantage in the second with Alexis Lafrenière's tally, putting Philadelphia in a deep hole. Igor Shesterkin was sharp in net for the Rangers (making 21 saves on the night), and it looked like the home team might cruise to a comfortable victory.
The Flyers had other plans. Matvei Michkov, the young Russian star who's been a bright spot in Philly's lineup, ignited the comeback. He scored on the power play at 10:25 of the second period, cutting the deficit to 2-1 with a setup from Noah Cates. That goal shifted the momentum, and the Flyers carried that energy into the third.
Just 39 seconds into the final frame, Trevor Zegras delivered the equalizer, his 21st goal of the season. He was assisted by Travis Konecny and Travis Sanheim. Zegras has been on fire against the Rangers this year, factoring into goals in all three matchups of the season series. His knack for clutch third-period tallies tied him with elite company like Nathan MacKinnon, Tomas Hertl, and Evan Bouchard for the league lead in that category this season.
The drama peaked in the closing moments of regulation. With time winding down, Michkov took a penalty for goaltender interference with just nine seconds left—a call that carried over into overtime and handed the Rangers an early power-play advantage in the extra frame. Philadelphia killed it off masterfully, with Samuel Ersson (22 saves on 24 shots) standing tall and the penalty killers showing grit.
Then came the heroics. At 2:10 of overtime, Michkov broke in alone on a breakaway from the left wing. He deked Shesterkin beautifully and slid a wrist shot through the five-hole for his second goal of the night—and his fourth career overtime winner. Assists went to Sean Couturier and Nick Seeler on the game-decider. Michkov now has three multi-goal games this season, proving he's developing into a true difference-maker for the Flyers.
Other contributors stepped up as well. Owen Tippett picked up an assist (his 17th of the year) and has points in all three games against New York this season. Travis Konecny extended his hot streak with his team-high 33rd assist and five points over his last five games. Noah Cates notched his 17th helper and has points in back-to-back outings, while Sanheim hit 20 assists for a third straight season.
This victory marked the Flyers' third game in the season series against the Rangers, evening things at 1-1-1. More importantly, it showcased the heart that's defined Philadelphia's campaign. Trailing by two goals on the road against a strong opponent? No problem. Facing a carryover power play in OT? Handled. Needing a dagger in extra time? Michkov delivered.
In hockey, as in life, games—and seasons—aren't decided until the final buzzer sounds. The Flyers lived that truth on this night, turning a potential loss into a gritty, come-from-behind triumph. It's not over until it's over—and for this Flyers team, the fight is far from finished.
- Jesse Bell/Olde City Sports Network
- Photo Credit: Matt Perretta/Olde City Sports Network
