Penguins vs. Flyers Score, Live Updates, Highlights From Game 1 of NHL Playoffs Series originally appeared on SportsNet Pittsburgh.
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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.
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
| 1 | 2 | 3 | F | |
| Flyers | ||||
| Penguins |
Penguins vs. Flyers live updates, highlights from Game 1
7:36 p.m.: The Penguins and Flyers split their four-game regular season series with two wins apiece, though Pittsburgh managed to secure points in every contest. The Flyers took both of their victories in shootouts, winning 3-2 in October and 4-3 in March, while the Penguins earned more decisive regulation wins of 5-1 and 6-3 during the middle of the season.
With both teams finishing the year tied at 98 points in the Metropolitan Division, this even split has set a perfect stage for their first-round playoff matchup beginning tonight.
7:26 p.m.: Get ready for the Battle of Pennsylvania.
Less than an hour away until the Battle of Pennsylvania. Buckle up. 🍿 pic.twitter.com/D1n41SERk1
— Spittin’ Chiclets (@spittinchiclets) April 18, 2026
7:17 p.m.: In goal for the Penguins for Game 1 is Stuart Skinner, who was traded from the Edmonton Oilers in December.
Dan Muse said Stuart Skinner will start Game 1 against Philadelphia. pic.twitter.com/DEzSz2LzU4
— Pens Inside Scoop (@PensInsideScoop) April 18, 2026
Skinner brings playoff experience, appearing in the last two Stanley Cup Finals. The goaltender is 26-22-0 in 50 games with a goals against average of 2.88 and a save percentage of .893 in the playoffs in his career.
7:07 p.m.: With Pittsburgh back in the postseason, all eyes are of course on No. 87, Sidney Crosby.
The Penguins captain has three Stanley Cups and is looking to add another in the late stage of his career. His stats against the cross-state rival are near video game category.
Sidney Crosby always brings his best against the Flyers. 🐧
Will his dominance continue? The @penguins host the @NHLFlyers in the #StanleyCup Playoffs Game 1 TONIGHT at 8p ET on @espn, @Sportsnet, & @TVASports! pic.twitter.com/aEbnLcPC0g
— NHL (@NHL) April 18, 2026
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.
Penguins vs. Flyers schedule
| Date | Game | Time (ET) | TV/Live stream |
|---|---|---|---|
| April 18 | Game 1: Flyers vs. Penguins | 8 p.m. | SNP, SNP 360, fubo |
| April 20 | Game 2: Flyers vs. Penguins | 7 p.m. | SNP, SNP 360, fubo |
| April 22 | Game 3: Penguins vs. Flyers | 7 p.m. | SNP, SNP 360, fubo |
| April 25 | Game 4: Penguins vs. Flyers | 8 p.m. | SNP, SNP 360, fubo |
| April 27 | Game 5*: Flyers vs. Penguins | TBD | TBD |
| April 29 | Game 6*: Penguins vs. Flyers | TBD | TBD |
| May 2 | Game 7*: Flyers vs. Penguins | TBD | TBD |
*If necessary
NHL Playoffs schedule, key dates for 2026
Here are the key dates to know for the NHL Playoffs:
| Event | Dates |
|---|---|
| First round begins | April 18 |
| Second round begins | May 2* |
| Conference finals begin | May 17* |
| Stanley Cup Final begins | June 3* |
| Last possible day for Game 7 | June 21 |
*Can move up depending on earlier series
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