New York Rangers vs Philadelphia Flyers

Overview

The New York Rangers are set to host the Philadelphia Flyers at Madison Square Garden on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 8:00 PM Eastern Time. This Metropolitan Division matchup carries significant implications for both teams as they vie for playoff positioning. The Rangers, currently seventh in the division, are looking to close the gap, while the Flyers, in sixth place, aim to solidify their standing. The game also marks the continuation of the longstanding rivalry between these two teams, adding an extra layer of intensity to the contest.

Season Snapshot

New York Rangers

The Rangers have a season record of 22 wins, 29 losses, and 6 overtime losses, placing them seventh in the Metropolitan Division. They have struggled at home with a 6-15-4 record. Offensively, they average 2.58 goals per game, ranking 20th in the league, and have a power play success rate of 22.70%. Defensively, they allow 3.12 goals per game, placing them 13th in goals against. (espn.com)

Philadelphia Flyers

The Flyers hold a record of 25 wins, 20 losses, and 11 overtime losses, positioning them sixth in the division. They have a 12-11-4 record on the road. Offensively, they average 2.84 goals per game, ranking 16th in the league, and have a power play success rate of 16.10%. Defensively, they allow 3.10 goals per game, placing them 16th in goals against. (espn.com)

Recent Form

Both teams have faced challenges in recent games. The Rangers have lost four consecutive games, including a 6-3 defeat to the Flyers on January 17, 2026. The Flyers have also struggled, losing four straight games, with their most recent loss being a 6-3 defeat to the Rangers on January 17, 2026. Injuries have impacted both teams:

Rangers Injuries

• Adam Fox (D): Lower Body – Expected to return February 26, 2026.
• Adam Edstrom (C): Lower Body – Expected to return February 26, 2026.
• Igor Shesterkin (G): Lower Body – Expected to return February 26, 2026.

Flyers Injuries

• Samuel Ersson (G): Lower Body – Day-to-Day.
• Rodrigo Abols (C): Ankle – Expected to return March 24, 2026.
• Tyson Foerster (RW): Arm – Out for the season.

(cbssports.com)

Talking Points

• Playoff Implications: With both teams vying for playoff spots, this game is crucial for their postseason aspirations.
• Home Ice Advantage: The Rangers' poor home record raises questions about their ability to capitalize on home ice.
• Injury Impact: The return of key players like Adam Fox and Igor Shesterkin could influence the Rangers' performance.
• Special Teams Performance: Both teams have struggled with their power play and penalty kill units; improvements are necessary.
• Rivalry Dynamics: The longstanding rivalry adds intensity, with both teams eager to assert dominance.

Players to Watch

• Mika Zibanejad (C, NYR): Leading the Rangers with 23 goals and 29 assists, Zibanejad is pivotal to their offensive efforts.
• Artemi Panarin (LW, NYR): With 14 goals and 41 points, Panarin's playmaking abilities are crucial for the Rangers.
• Travis Konecny (RW, PHI): The Flyers' leading scorer with 22 goals and 32 assists, Konecny is a constant offensive threat.
• Dan Vladar (G, PHI): With a 14-6-3 record and a .910 save percentage, Vladar's performance in goal is vital for the Flyers.

Key Matchups & Storylines

• Zibanejad vs. Konecny: The battle between the Rangers' and Flyers' leading scorers could be decisive.
• Shesterkin's Return: The impact of Igor Shesterkin's return from injury on the Rangers' defensive stability.
• Special Teams Battle: Both teams need to improve their power play and penalty kill units; this game could be a turning point.
• Home Performance: The Rangers' ability to overcome their home ice struggles will be tested.

Fun Facts

• The Rangers and Flyers have faced each other 378 times, with the Rangers leading the series 172-158-37-11. (en.wikipedia.org)
• The largest victory in the series was a 9-0 win by the Rangers on March 17, 2021. (en.wikipedia.org)
• The Flyers have a 25-12 record in their last 37 games as a road favorite of -151 to -200. (news.sportsinteraction.com)
• The Rangers have a 1-6 record in their last 7 games as a home underdog. (news.sportsinteraction.com)

Things to Chirp About

• "Can the Rangers finally turn their home record around tonight?"
• "Will Shesterkin's return be the spark the Rangers need?"
• "Is Konecny the key to the Flyers' offense?"
• "How will the Rangers' power play perform against the Flyers' penalty kill?"

Prediction

This game is expected to be closely contested, with both teams eager to break their losing streaks. The Rangers' home struggles and the Flyers' recent form suggest a tight matchup. The return of key players for the Rangers could provide a boost, but the Flyers' offensive capabilities make them formidable opponents. Overall, the game is likely to be competitive, with the outcome hinging on special teams performance and individual player contributions.