Opinion
3 min read

Can the Philadelphia Flyers Outmaneuver the Blackhawks in Their Own Nest?

The Philadelphia Flyers are gearing up for a significant encounter at their home, Wells Fargo Center, against the Chicago Blackhawks. The upcoming game is crucial for the Flyers, who have been showing a mix of performances in recent outings.


Feb 21, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Philadelphia Flyers right wing Garnet Hathaway (19) shoots and scores against the Chicago Blackhawks during the second period at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

Looking back at their last game on March 17 against the Boston Bruins, despite an impressive offensive display with 5 goals and a shooting percentage of 17 percent, defensive lapses led to a loss with 6 goals conceded. The even-strength play was strong offensively but ultimately not enough to secure victory. This pattern of high-scoring games suggests that fans can expect an exciting match-up when they face Chicago.


The Flyers' performance against Toronto Maple Leafs on March 14 was less than stellar. Scoring only 2 goals on a shooting percentage of just 7 percent indicates that there's room for improvement in converting shots into points. However, their powerplay unit did manage to capitalize once during this game.


Feb 21, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Jamie Drysdale (9) passes the puck against the Chicago Blackhawks during the second period at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

A more encouraging sign came from the game on March 12 versus San Jose Sharks where the Flyers emerged victorious with a narrow win by scoring three times and boasting an effective powerplay unit that scored once out of four opportunities. Their goaltending was also solid with saves at critical moments contributing to their win.


Against Chicago Blackhawks, it will be essential for Philadelphia to tighten up defensively while maintaining their offensive prowess shown in these past games. The Blackhawks will come prepared and ready to exploit any weakness; thus, it is imperative for Philadelphia's defense and goaltending to step up alongside continued productivity from forwards.


Feb 21, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Jarred Tinordi (25) battles for the puck with Philadelphia Flyers right wing Garnet Hathaway (19) during the first period at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

Special teams could play a pivotal role as well; if Philadelphia can harness its powerplay efficiency seen against San Jose and replicate such performances consistently, they could tilt the ice in their favor.


As we look forward toward this clash between two storied franchises, all eyes will be on how well Philly can balance its aggressive attack while shoring up any defensive frailties exposed in previous matchups.


Fans eager to witness whether the Flyers can elevate their gameplay should mark their calendars for March 30th at Wells Fargo Center where puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 PM ET. The action will be broadcasted live on ESPN+ as well as NBCS-CHI and NBCS-PH networks.

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