Flyers Smoke Rangers And They Are IN

The Flyers dominated the Rangers Saturday afternoon in Philadelphia, 5-0, to cement their spot in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

They were led by Captain and Hart Trophy Candidate Claude Giroux. Giroux, who needed 1 point to record his first ever 100-point season, had a day to remember. Giroux just didn’t just get the 1 point for 100. No. Giroux scored his 1st ever regular season hat-trick.

If you can remember back to the famous 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs when the Flyers faced the Penguins, then rookie Sean Couturier and Claude Giroux both recorded hat-tricks in the 8-5 game 2 win over the Penguins.

But, Giroux wasn’t the only shining star in todays win.

Goaltender Brian Elliott, in just his second game back from core muscle surgery, shutout the Rangers. Elliott, who struggled early in his first game back Thursday, showed no rust today. Elliott was a perfect 17 for 17 on the day.

It is still unknown who the Flyers will play in round 1. But, here are the possibilities.

If Columbus defeats the Nashville Predators and the Devils defeat the Washington Capitals, then the Flyers will face Tampa Bay or Boston.

If Columbus loses in OT / SO to Nashville and the Devils beat the Capitals, then the Flyers will face Washington.

If Columbus loses to Nashville and the Devils lose in OT / SO to the Capitals, then the Flyers will face Pittsburgh.

If Columbus and Devils lose, then the Flyers will play Pittsburgh.

So, a ton of possibilities for the Flyers playoff opponent. But, it will be one of Tampa Bay, Boston, Washington, or Pittsburgh.

Playoff Hockey Is Back.