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{{short description|National Hockey League cross-state rivalry in Pennsylvania}}
{{short description|National Hockey League cross-state rivalry in Pennsylvania}}
{{redirect|Battle of Pennsylvania|the NFL rivalry|Eagles–Steelers rivalry|the MLB rivalry|Phillies–Pirates rivalry}}
{{Cleanup bare URLs|date=August 2022}}
{{Infobox sports rivalry
{{Infobox sports rivalry
| name = Flyers–Penguins rivalry
| name = Flyers–Penguins rivalry
Line 9: Line 7:
| team2 = [[Pittsburgh Penguins]]
| team2 = [[Pittsburgh Penguins]]
| first contested = October 19, 1967<ref>{{cite web|url= http://mcubed.net/nhl/phi/pit.shtml|title=Series records : Philadelphia Flyers (H) against Pittsburgh Penguins (A)|website=mcubed.net|access-date=October 30, 2019}}</ref>
| first contested = October 19, 1967<ref>{{cite web|url= http://mcubed.net/nhl/phi/pit.shtml|title=Series records : Philadelphia Flyers (H) against Pittsburgh Penguins (A)|website=mcubed.net|access-date=October 30, 2019}}</ref>
| mostrecent = November 25, 2022
| mostrecent = December 23, 2024
| nextmeeting = March 11, 2023
| nextmeeting = February 8, 2025
| total = 346
| total = 353
| series = 184–119–31–12 (PHI)
| series = 186–124–30–13 (PHI)
| regularseason = 163–99–30–13 (PHI)
| regularseason = 165–104–30–13 (PHI)
| postseason = 21–20 (PHI)
| postseason = 21–20 (PHI)
| largestvictory = PHI 11–0 PIT<br />October 20, 1977
| largestvictory = PHI 11–0 PIT<br />October 20, 1977
| longeststreak = PHI W11<br/>PIT W8
| longeststreak = PHI W11
| currentstreak = PIT W1
| currentstreak = PIT W3
| section_header = Postseason history
| section_header = Postseason history
| section_info =
| section_info =
* '''[[1989 Stanley Cup playoffs|1989 Division Finals]]''': Flyers won, 4–3<ref>{{cite web | title = 1989 NHL Playoff Summary | work = Hockey-Reference | publisher = Sports Reference LLC | url = https://www.hockey-reference.com/playoffs/NHL_1989.html | access-date = October 18, 2010 }}</ref>
* '''[[1989 Stanley Cup playoffs|1989 division finals]]''': Flyers won, 4–3<ref>{{cite web|title=1989 NHL Playoff Summary|website=Hockey-Reference.com|publisher=Sports Reference LLC|url=https://www.hockey-reference.com/playoffs/NHL_1989.html|accessdate=October 18, 2010}}</ref>
* '''[[1997 Stanley Cup playoffs|1997 Conference Quarterfinals]]''': Flyers won, 4–1<ref>{{cite web | title = 1997 NHL Playoff Summary | work = Hockey-Reference | publisher = Sports Reference LLC | url = https://www.hockey-reference.com/playoffs/NHL_1997.html | access-date = October 18, 2010 }}</ref>
* '''[[1997 Stanley Cup playoffs|1997 conference quarterfinals]]''': Flyers won, 4–1<ref>{{cite web|title=1997 NHL Playoff Summary|website=Hockey-Reference.com|publisher=Sports Reference LLC|url=https://www.hockey-reference.com/playoffs/NHL_1997.html|accessdate = October 18, 2010 }}</ref>
* '''[[2000 Stanley Cup playoffs|2000 Conference Semifinals]]''': Flyers won, 4–2<ref>{{cite web | title = 2000 NHL Playoff Summary | work = Hockey-Reference | publisher = Sports Reference LLC | url = https://www.hockey-reference.com/playoffs/NHL_2000.html | access-date = October 18, 2010 }}</ref>
* '''[[2000 Stanley Cup playoffs|2000 conference semifinals]]''': Flyers won, 4–2<ref>{{cite web|title=2000 NHL Playoff Summary|website=Hockey-Reference.com|publisher=Sports Reference LLC|url=https://www.hockey-reference.com/playoffs/NHL_2000.html|accessdate = October 18, 2010 }}</ref>
* '''[[2008 Stanley Cup playoffs|2008 Conference Finals]]''': Penguins won, 4–1<ref>{{cite web | title = 2008 NHL Playoff Summary | work = Hockey-Reference | publisher = Sports Reference LLC | url = https://www.hockey-reference.com/playoffs/NHL_2008.html | access-date = October 18, 2010 }}</ref>
* '''[[2008 Stanley Cup playoffs|2008 conference finals]]''': Penguins won, 4–1<ref>{{cite web|title=2008 NHL Playoff Summary|website=Hockey-Reference.com|publisher=Sports Reference LLC|url=https://www.hockey-reference.com/playoffs/NHL_2008.html|accessdate = October 18, 2010 }}</ref>
* '''[[2009 Stanley Cup playoffs|2009 Conference Quarterfinals]]''': Penguins won, 4–2<ref>{{cite web | title = 2009 NHL Playoff Summary | work = Hockey-Reference | publisher = Sports Reference LLC | url = https://www.hockey-reference.com/playoffs/NHL_2009.html | access-date = October 18, 2010 }}</ref>
* '''[[2009 Stanley Cup playoffs|2009 conference quarterfinals]]''': Penguins won, 4–2<ref>{{cite web|title=2009 NHL Playoff Summary|website=Hockey-Reference.com|publisher=Sports Reference LLC|url=https://www.hockey-reference.com/playoffs/NHL_2009.html | accessdate = October 18, 2010 }}</ref>
* '''[[2012 Stanley Cup playoffs|2012 Conference Quarterfinals]]''': Flyers won, 4–2<ref>{{cite web | title = 2012 NHL Playoff Summary | work = Hockey-Reference | publisher = Sports Reference LLC | url = https://www.hockey-reference.com/playoffs/NHL_2012.html | access-date = April 20, 2012 }}</ref>
* '''[[2012 Stanley Cup playoffs|2012 conference quarterfinals]]''': Flyers won, 4–2<ref>{{cite web|title=2012 NHL Playoff Summary|website=Hockey-Reference.com|publisher=Sports Reference LLC|url=https://www.hockey-reference.com/playoffs/NHL_2012.html|accessdate = April 20, 2012 }}</ref>
* '''[[2018 Stanley Cup playoffs|2018 First Round]]''': Penguins won, 4–2
* '''[[2018 Stanley Cup playoffs|2018 first round]]''': Penguins won, 4–2
}}
}}
The '''Flyers–Penguins rivalry''', also known as the '''Battle of Pennsylvania''', is a [[National Hockey League]] (NHL) [[National Hockey League rivalries|rivalry]] between the [[Philadelphia Flyers]] and [[Pittsburgh Penguins]] [[ice hockey]] clubs.<ref>{{cite web|title=Flyers-Penguins Is The NHL's Best Rivalry|work = [[Deadspin]]| date=21 February 2013 |publisher=[[Gawker Media]]|url=http://deadspin.com/5985879/flyers-penguins-is-the-nhls-best-rivalry|access-date=March 10, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title="I think this is currently the biggest rivalry in the NHL." - Four former NHL players talk Penguins vs. Flyers|date=2 March 2017|publisher=[[Vox Media]]|url=http://www.pensburgh.com/2017/3/2/14784292/stadium-series-penguins-flyers-interview-coffey-lindros-weekes-rupp|access-date=March 10, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Ranking the NHL's 10 Best Rivalries|work = [[Sports Illustrated]]|publisher=[[Time Inc.]]|url=https://www.si.com/nhl/photo/2016/04/07/ranking-nhls-10-best-rivalries|access-date=March 11, 2017}}</ref> Both teams compete in the NHL's [[Eastern Conference (NHL)|Eastern Conference]] [[Metropolitan Division]]. The rivalry began in [[1967 NHL expansion|1967]], when the teams were introduced into the NHL's "[[1967 NHL expansion|Next Six]]" expansion wave. The rivalry exists due to divisional alignment and geographic location, as both teams play in the Commonwealth of [[Pennsylvania]]. The Flyers and Penguins met in the [[Stanley Cup playoffs]] four times in 11 years from 2008 to 2018, strengthening the rivalry.<ref>{{cite news|title=It's Philly vs. the Burgh|date=May 11, 2008|newspaper=Pittsburgh Post-Gazette|page=B1}}</ref>
The '''Flyers–Penguins rivalry''', also known as the '''Battle of Pennsylvania''', is a [[National Hockey League]] (NHL) [[National Hockey League rivalries|rivalry]] between the [[Philadelphia Flyers]] and [[Pittsburgh Penguins]] [[ice hockey]] clubs.<ref>{{cite web|title=Flyers-Penguins Is The NHL's Best Rivalry|website=Deadspin.com|publisher=G/O Media, Inc.|url=http://deadspin.com/5985879/flyers-penguins-is-the-nhls-best-rivalry|date=February 21, 2013|accessdate=March 10, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title="I think this is currently the biggest rivalry in the NHL." - Four former NHL players talk Penguins vs. Flyers|date=March 2, 2017|publisher=[[Vox Media]]|url=http://www.pensburgh.com/2017/3/2/14784292/stadium-series-penguins-flyers-interview-coffey-lindros-weekes-rupp|access-date=March 10, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|title=Ranking the NHL's 10 Best Rivalries|magazine=[[Sports Illustrated]]|url=https://www.si.com/nhl/photo/2016/04/07/ranking-nhls-10-best-rivalries|last=Muir|first=Allan|accessdate=March 11, 2017}}</ref> Both teams compete in the NHL's [[Eastern Conference (NHL)|Eastern Conference]] [[Metropolitan Division]]. The rivalry began in [[1967 NHL expansion|1967]], when the teams were introduced into the NHL's "[[1967 NHL expansion|Next Six]]" expansion wave. The rivalry exists due to divisional alignment and geographic location, as both teams play in the Commonwealth of [[Pennsylvania]]. The Flyers and Penguins met in the [[Stanley Cup playoffs]] four times in 11 years from 2008 to 2018, strengthening the rivalry.<ref>{{cite news|title=It's Philly vs. the Burgh|date=May 11, 2008|newspaper=Pittsburgh Post-Gazette|page=B1}}</ref>


==Early days==
==History==

⚫
The first meeting between the Flyers and Penguins occurred on October 19, 1967, in the first-ever game at the Philadelphia [[Spectrum (arena)|Spectrum]].<ref name="FirstGame">{{cite web | title = October 19th, 1967 - Flyers First Home Game | work = flyershistory.net | publisher = P. Anson | url = http://www.flyershistory.com/cgi-bin/hm.cgi?003hm | access-date = October 18, 2010 }}</ref> Flyers goaltender [[Doug Favell]] stopped all 17 Pittsburgh shots and [[Bill Sutherland (hockey)|Bill Sutherland]] scored the lone goal 2:59 into the third period for a 1–0 Flyers win.<ref name="FirstGame"/>
===Early days===
⚫
The first meeting between the Flyers and Penguins occurred on October 19, 1967, in the first-ever game at the Philadelphia [[Spectrum (arena)|Spectrum]].<ref name="FirstGame">{{cite web|title = October 19th, 1967 - Flyers First Home Game|website=flyershistory.net|publisher=FlyersAlumni.net|url=http://www.flyershistory.com/cgi-bin/hm.cgi?003hm|accessdate=October 18, 2010}}</ref> Flyers goaltender [[Doug Favell]] stopped all 17 Pittsburgh shots and [[Bill Sutherland (hockey)|Bill Sutherland]] scored the lone goal 2:59 into the third period for a 1–0 Flyers win.<ref name="FirstGame"/>


The rivalry was not as strong in earlier years, as the Penguins struggled in the NHL until the arrival of [[Mario Lemieux]] in {{nhly|1984}}. The Flyers achieved just the opposite, winning back-to-back [[Stanley Cup]]s in {{scfy|1974}} and {{scfy|1975}}. When the NHL realigned divisions prior to the {{nhly|1974}} season, the two Pennsylvania teams were moved to separate divisions. The Penguins spent the next seven seasons in the [[Norris Division]] and became the Flyers' division rivals once again upon joining the [[Patrick Division]] in {{nhly|1981}}.
The rivalry was not as strong in earlier years, as the Penguins struggled in the NHL until the arrival of [[Mario Lemieux]] in {{nhly|1984}}. The Flyers achieved just the opposite, winning back-to-back [[Stanley Cup]]s in {{scfy|1974}} and {{scfy|1975}}. When the NHL realigned divisions prior to the {{nhly|1974}} season, the two Pennsylvania teams were moved to separate divisions. The Penguins spent the next seven seasons in the [[Norris Division]] and became the Flyers' division rivals once again upon joining the [[Patrick Division]] in {{nhly|1981}}.
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Most notably during this era was the Penguins' 42-game winless streak at the Spectrum; from February 7, 1974, through February 2, 1989, the Penguins were 0–39–3 at the Spectrum. From 1967 to 1989, Philadelphia went 86–36–19 against Pittsburgh.
Most notably during this era was the Penguins' 42-game winless streak at the Spectrum; from February 7, 1974, through February 2, 1989, the Penguins were 0–39–3 at the Spectrum. From 1967 to 1989, Philadelphia went 86–36–19 against Pittsburgh.


==Arrival of Mario Lemieux==
===Arrival of Mario Lemieux===
After years of underperformance, the arrival of [[Mario Lemieux]] in Pittsburgh gave the Penguins respectability in the NHL. In {{nhly|1988}}, the Flyers and the Penguins met for the first time in the playoffs in the [[1989 Stanley Cup playoffs|Patrick Division Finals]].
After years of underperformance, the arrival of [[Mario Lemieux]] in Pittsburgh gave the Penguins respectability in the NHL. In {{nhly|1988}}, the Flyers and the Penguins met for the first time in the playoffs in the [[1989 Stanley Cup playoffs|Patrick Division Finals]].


The series proved to be a turning point for both franchises. The Flyers missed the playoffs for the next five seasons, while the Penguins became an annual contender with such stars as Lemieux, [[Jaromír Jágr|Jaromir Jagr]], [[Ron Francis]], and [[Larry Murphy (ice hockey)|Larry Murphy]]. The Penguins peaked with two [[Stanley Cup]] championships in {{scfy|1991}} and {{scfy|1992}}, having missed the 1990 playoffs.
The series proved to be a turning point for both franchises. The Flyers missed the playoffs for the next five seasons, while the Penguins became an annual contender with such stars as Lemieux, [[Jaromír Jágr|Jaromir Jagr]], [[Ron Francis]], and [[Larry Murphy (ice hockey)|Larry Murphy]]. The Penguins peaked with two [[Stanley Cup]] championships in {{scfy|1991}} and {{scfy|1992}}, having missed the 1990 playoffs.


==Eric Lindros and the 1990s==
===Eric Lindros and the 1990s===
The rivalry continued during the 1990s with the arrival of [[Eric Lindros]] in Philadelphia, which gave the Flyers a counterbalance against Lemieux. Further divisional realignment, however, split the teams up again in {{nhly|1993}}, and the Penguins spent the next five seasons in the Northeast Division. Lindros and Jagr were tied for 70 points; the League scoring lead in {{nhly|1994}}, but Jagr won the [[Art Ross Trophy]] for having scored three more goals than Lindros (32 to 29). Lindros, however, won the [[Hart Memorial Trophy]] that season as League MVP, with Lemieux winning it the following season in {{nhly|1995}}, with Lindros as first runner-up. During that same season, the Flyers won the Eastern Conference's crown by one point in the standings, despite Pittsburgh having 49 wins to Philadelphia's 45. The two teams met again in the playoffs, in the [[1997 Stanley Cup playoffs|1997 Eastern Conference Quarterfinals]]. The Flyers won in five games, and Lemieux subsequently retired for the first time at the end of the series. After Game 5, Lemieux skated around the ice and received a [[standing ovation]] from the Philadelphia crowd. He had previously received a standing ovation from the Philadelphia crowd in March 1993 after returning from radiation treatments.
The rivalry continued during the 1990s with the arrival of [[Eric Lindros]] in Philadelphia, which gave the Flyers a counterbalance against Lemieux. Further divisional realignment split the teams up again in {{nhly|1993}}, and the Penguins spent the next five seasons in the Northeast Division. Lindros and Jagr were tied for 70 points; the League scoring lead in {{nhly|1994}}, but Jagr won the [[Art Ross Trophy]] for having scored three more goals than Lindros (32 to 29). Lindros, however, won the [[Hart Memorial Trophy]] that season as League MVP, with Lemieux winning it the following season in {{nhly|1995}}, with Lindros as first runner-up. During that same season, the Flyers won the Eastern Conference's crown by one point in the standings, despite Pittsburgh having 49 wins to Philadelphia's 45. The two teams met again in the playoffs, in the [[1997 Stanley Cup playoffs|1997 Eastern Conference quarterfinals]]. The Flyers won in five games, and Lemieux subsequently retired for the first time at the end of the series. After game five, Lemieux skated around the ice and received a [[standing ovation]] from the Philadelphia crowd.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Darren |date=April 16, 1997 |title=Mario leaves game on his terms |url=https://www.espn.com/classic/s/2000/1207/929465.html |access-date=2003-11-19 |website=www.espn.com}}</ref> He previously received a standing ovation from the Philadelphia crowd in March 1993 after returning from radiation treatments.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Sell |first=Dave |date=March 2, 1993 |title=Lemieux Scores in Noisy Return |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/sports/1993/03/03/lemieux-scores-in-noisy-return/f460a8c3-aca3-4dea-862d-149087759263/ |access-date=2024-06-26 |work=Washington Post |language=en-US |issn=0190-8286}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Ciabattari |first=Kisha |date=March 2, 1993 |title=Flyers 5, Penguins 4 |url=https://www.upi.com/Archives/1993/03/02/Flyers-5-Penguins-4/9079731048400/ |access-date=2024-06-26 |website=UPI Archives |language=en}}</ref>


One of the most memorable moments of the rivalry occurred during the {{nhly|1999}} season, when the two teams met in the [[2000 Stanley Cup playoffs|Eastern Conference Semifinals]]. A season after the Penguins joined the Atlantic Division, the Flyers had won the Division and the #1 seed in the East, while the Penguins made the playoffs as the seventh seed. Despite this, the Penguins jumped out to a 2–0 series lead, winning both games in Philadelphia. The Flyers won Game 3 in overtime, but NHL history was made in Game 4. Tied at 1–1, the game stretched to five overtime periods and set the record for the longest game played in the modern era of the NHL. [[Keith Primeau]]'s goal at the 92:01 mark of overtime (152:01 overall) gave the Flyers a 2–1 win and a 2–2 split in the series.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/hockey/nhl/recaps/2000/05/04/pit_phi/ |title=CNNSI.com - 2000 NHL Playoffs - NHL Hockey Scoreboard: Recap: Philadelphia at Pittsburgh - Friday May 05, 2000 04:16 AM |access-date=2013-08-14 |archive-date=2014-03-19 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140319020308/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/hockey/nhl/recaps/2000/05/04/pit_phi/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> The outcome energized the Flyers and demoralized the Penguins, as the Flyers won the next two games and the series.
One of the most memorable moments of the rivalry occurred during the {{nhly|1999}} season when the two teams met in the [[2000 Stanley Cup playoffs|Eastern Conference Semifinals]]. A season after the Penguins joined the Atlantic Division, the Flyers had won the Division with the best record in the East, while the Penguins made the playoffs as the seventh seed. Despite this, the Penguins jumped out to a 2–0 series lead, winning both games in Philadelphia. The Flyers won Game 3 in overtime, but NHL history was made in Game 4. Tied at 1–1, the game stretched to five overtime periods and set the record for the longest game played in the modern era of the NHL. [[Keith Primeau]]'s goal at the 92:01 mark of overtime (152:01 overall) gave the Flyers a 2–1 win and a 2–2 split in the series.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/hockey/nhl/recaps/2000/05/04/pit_phi/|title=2000 NHL Playoffs - NHL Hockey Scoreboard: Recap: Philadelphia at Pittsburgh |date=May 5, 2000 |publisher=CNN/Sports Illustrated|accessdate=August 14, 2013|archive-date=March 19, 2014|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140319020308/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/hockey/nhl/recaps/2000/05/04/pit_phi/|url-status=dead }}</ref> The outcome energized the Flyers and demoralized the Penguins, as the Flyers won the next two games and the series.


==Rivalry in the 21st century==
===Rivalry in the 21st century===
The rivalry between the two teams lost its luster in the years leading up to the [[2004–05 NHL lockout]], as the Penguins struggled on-and-off the ice, dropping to the bottom of not only the League standings, but the attendance rankings as well.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/attendance?year=2004|title=NHL Attendance Leaders - National Hockey League|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2009-05-15}}</ref>
The rivalry between the two teams lost its luster in the years leading up to the [[2004–05 NHL lockout]], as the Penguins struggled on-and-off the ice, dropping to the bottom of the League standings.


In {{nhly|2006}}, the Penguins defeated the Flyers in all eight matchups between the two teams, and Penguins goaltender [[Marc-André Fleury|Marc-Andre Fleury]] became the first goaltender to defeat a team eight times in a season since {{nhly|1967}}. The Flyers have swept the season series three times, winning all four games during the {{nhly|1980}} season, all seven games during the {{nhly|1983}} season, and all four games during the {{nhly|2014}} season. During the {{nhly|2007}} season, the Flyers won five games and the Penguins won three in the season series. The series was highlighted by an 8–2 win by the Flyers and a 7–1 win by the Penguins. The Penguins and the Flyers faced off in the [[2008 Stanley Cup playoffs|2008 Eastern Conference Finals]], won by the Penguins in five games for the Penguins' first-ever playoff series win against the Flyers. A year later, in the [[2009 Stanley Cup Playoffs|2009 Eastern Conference Quarterfinals]], the Penguins beat the Flyers again, winning the series 4–2 on their way to winning the [[2009 Stanley Cup Finals|Stanley Cup]].
In {{nhly|2006}}, the Penguins defeated the Flyers in all eight matchups between the two teams, and Penguins goaltender [[Marc-André Fleury|Marc-Andre Fleury]] became the first goaltender to defeat a team eight times in a season since {{nhly|1967}}. The Flyers have swept the season series three times, winning all four games during the {{nhly|1980}} season, all seven games during the {{nhly|1983}} season, and all four games during the {{nhly|2014}} season. During the {{nhly|2007}} season, the Flyers won five games and the Penguins won three in the season series. The series was highlighted by an 8–2 win by the Flyers and a 7–1 win by the Penguins. The Penguins and the Flyers faced off in the [[2008 Stanley Cup playoffs|2008 Eastern Conference finals]], won by the Penguins in five games for the Penguins' first-ever playoff series win against the Flyers. A year later, in the [[2009 Stanley Cup Playoffs|2009 Eastern Conference quarterfinals]], the Penguins beat the Flyers again, winning the series 4–2 on their way to winning the [[2009 Stanley Cup Finals|Stanley Cup]].


In the {{nhly|2010}} season opener, Philadelphia traveled to Pittsburgh to open the Penguins new arena, the [[PPG Paints Arena|Consol Energy Center]], on October 7. Rookie goaltender [[Sergei Bobrovsky]] made his NHL debut, leading the Flyers to a 3–2 victory.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.nhl.com/ice/recap.htm?id=2010020002|title=Flyers spoil Pens' debut in new home with 3-2 win|date= 7 October 2010|work=NHL.com|first=Mike G.|last=Morreale|access-date=October 8, 2010}}</ref> Flyers forward [[Daniel Brière|Danny Briere]] scored the first NHL goal in the new building, and Penguins forward [[Tyler Kennedy]] scored the first Penguins goal.
In the {{nhly|2010}} season opener, Philadelphia traveled to Pittsburgh to open the Penguins new arena, the [[PPG Paints Arena|Consol Energy Center]], on October 7. Rookie goaltender [[Sergei Bobrovsky]] made his NHL debut, leading the Flyers to a 3–2 victory.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.nhl.com/ice/recap.htm?id=2010020002|title=Flyers spoil Pens' debut in new home with 3-2 win|date= 7 October 2010|publisher=NHL Enterprises, L. P.|website=NHL.com|first=Mike G.|last=Morreale|accessdate=October 8, 2010}}</ref> Flyers forward [[Daniel Brière|Danny Briere]] scored the first NHL goal in the new building, and Penguins forward [[Tyler Kennedy]] scored the first Penguins goal.


On July 1, 2011, the Flyers signed former Penguins Jaromir Jagr and [[Maxime Talbot]] to a one-year, $3.3 million deal and a five-year, $9 million deal, respectively.<ref name=Talbot>{{cite news|title=Flyers add Jagr and lose Leino&ndash;Talbot and Lilja also are in|date=July 2, 2011|first=Sam|last=Carchidi|newspaper=Philadelphia Inquirer|page=D1}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Busy Day at the Office&ndash;Bidding War Ends with Jagr as Flyer; Talbot Joins Him, Too|date=July 2, 2011|first=Dave|last=Molinari|newspaper=Pittsburgh Post-Gazette|page=D1|author-link=Dave Molinari}}</ref> Whilst playing for Pittsburgh two years earlier, Talbot scored both goals in the Penguins' Cup-clinching Game 7 win against the [[Detroit Red Wings]] in {{scfy|2009}}.<ref name=Talbot/>
On July 1, 2011, the Flyers signed former Penguins Jaromir Jagr and [[Maxime Talbot]] to a one-year, $3.3 million deal and a five-year, $9 million deal, respectively.<ref name=Talbot>{{cite news|title=Flyers add Jagr and lose Leino&ndash;Talbot and Lilja also are in|date=July 2, 2011|first=Sam|last=Carchidi|newspaper=Philadelphia Inquirer|page=D1}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Busy Day at the Office&ndash;Bidding War Ends with Jagr as Flyer; Talbot Joins Him, Too|date=July 2, 2011|first=Dave|last=Molinari|newspaper=Pittsburgh Post-Gazette|page=D1|author-link=Dave Molinari}}</ref> Whilst playing for Pittsburgh two years earlier, Talbot scored both goals in the Penguins' Cup-clinching Game 7 win against the [[Detroit Red Wings]] in {{scfy|2009}}.<ref name=Talbot/>


The rivalry between the two teams briefly became an alliance late in 2011, when Commissioner [[Gary Bettman]] and the NHL began discussions for league realignment from six divisions to four. One proposal would have resulted in separating the Penguins and Flyers into different divisions and lowering their in-season matchups from six to two. Members of both organizations actively spoke against breaking up the two teams, citing the importance of the rivalry to the teams, the fans, as well as the state of Pennsylvania.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.timesherald.com/article/20111031/SPORTS/111039950|title=Flyers, Penguins join forces to fight proposal of realigning the divisions|date=October 31, 2011|access-date=April 12, 2017|first=Anthony|last=Sanfilippo|work=timesherald.com|publisher=The Times Herald}}</ref> When the re-aligned conferences were unveiled later that year, both teams were placed in the eventually-named Metropolitan Division, ensuring the rivalry's continuation.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nbcsports.com/philadelphia/philadelphia-flyers/flyers-react-nhls-new-realignment|title=Flyers react to NHL's new realignment|date=December 6, 2011|access-date=October 19, 2018|first=Sarah|last=Baicker|work=nbcsports.com|publisher=NBC Sports Philadelphia}}</ref>
The rivalry between the two teams briefly became an alliance late in 2011, when Commissioner [[Gary Bettman]] and the NHL began discussions for league realignment from six divisions to four. One proposal would have resulted in separating the Penguins and Flyers into different divisions and lowering their in-season matchups from six to two. Members of both organizations actively spoke against breaking up the two teams, citing the importance of the rivalry to the teams, the fans, as well as the state of Pennsylvania.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.timesherald.com/2011/10/31/flyers-penguins-join-forces-to-fight-proposal-of-realigning-the-divisions/|title=Flyers, Penguins join forces to fight proposal of realigning the divisions|date=October 31, 2011|accessdate=April 12, 2017|first=Anthony|last=Sanfilippo|newspaper=The Times Herald}}</ref> When the re-aligned conferences were unveiled later that year, both teams were placed in the eventually-named Metropolitan Division, ensuring the rivalry's continuation.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nbcsportsphiladelphia.com/nhl/flyers-react-to-nhls-new-realignment/362457/|title=Flyers react to NHL's new realignment|date=December 6, 2011|accessdate=October 19, 2018|first=Sarah|last=Baicker|website=nbcsportsphiladelphia.com|publisher=NBCUniversal Media, LLC}}</ref>


On April 1, 2012, the Flyers and Penguins were involved in a late-game skirmish at Consol Energy Center. The game, which the Flyers won 6–4, was highlighted by Flyers Head Coach [[Peter Laviolette]] and Penguins Assistant Coach [[Tony Granato]] standing atop the boards and engaged in a verbal altercation.<ref>{{cite news|title=STOKING the FLYERS: Melee could be sign of playoff swings to come with Penguins|last=Seravalli|first=Frank|newspaper=Philadelphia Daily News|date=April 2, 2012|page=78}}</ref> Both were eventually fined by the NHL.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=625559|title=Flyers coach, Penguins assistant fined by NHL|date=April 2, 2012|access-date=April 7, 2012|agency=Associated Press|work=NHL.com|publisher=National Hockey League}}</ref> On April 7, the Penguins defeated the Flyers for the first time in six games at Consol Energy Center, winning 4–2. As of the [[2015–16 NHL season|2015–16 season]], the Flyers hold a 13–3-1 record against the Penguins at Consol Energy Center.
On April 1, 2012, the Flyers and Penguins were involved in a late-game skirmish at Consol Energy Center. The game, which the Flyers won 6–4, was highlighted by Flyers Head Coach [[Peter Laviolette]] and Penguins Assistant Coach [[Tony Granato]] standing atop the boards and engaged in a verbal altercation.<ref>{{cite news|title=Stoking the Flyers: Melee could be sign of playoff swings to come with Penguins|last=Seravalli|first=Frank|newspaper=Philadelphia Daily News|date=April 2, 2012|page=78}}</ref> Both were eventually fined by the NHL.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=625559|title=Flyers coach, Penguins assistant fined by NHL|date=April 2, 2012|access-date=April 7, 2012|agency=Associated Press|work=NHL.com|publisher=National Hockey League}}</ref> On April 7, the Penguins defeated the Flyers for the first time in six games at Consol Energy Center, winning 4–2.


The teams met again in the [[2012 Stanley Cup playoffs|2012 Eastern Conference Quarterfinals]], their third meeting in five seasons. The Flyers won the series in 6 games, surprising the hockey world, as the Penguins were heavily favored to win the Stanley Cup that year.<ref>[http://espn.go.com/nhl/playoffs/2012/story/_/id/7772345/experts-picks Stanley Cup Predictions]</ref> The teams combined for an NHL-record 45 goals in the first four games, as well as combining for 309 penalty minutes (158 of which were in Philadelphia's 8–4 Game 3 victory, which put them ahead 3–0 in the series) throughout the fight-filled, six-game series.
The teams met again in the [[2012 Stanley Cup playoffs|2012 Eastern Conference quarterfinals]], their third meeting in five seasons. The Flyers won the series in six games. The teams combined for an NHL-record 45 goals in the first four games, as well as combining for 309 penalty minutes (158 of which were in Philadelphia's 8–4 game three victory, which put them ahead 3–0 in the series) throughout the fight-filled, six-game series.


The rivalry once again received significant attention by the end of the 2010s with two [[NHL Stadium Series]] matches between the two teams in 2017<ref>{{cite news|title=Fans Brave Dropping Temperatures For NHL Stadium Series Game|url=http://pittsburgh.cbslocal.com/2017/02/25/fans-brave-dropping-temperatures-for-nhl-stadium-series-game/|access-date=February 27, 2017|publisher=[[KDKA-TV]]|date=February 25, 2017}}</ref> and 2019<ref name="flyers_nss">{{cite web|author1=Philadelphia Flyers|title=2019 Coors Light NHL Stadium Series Announced|url=https://www.nhl.com/flyers/news/2019-coors-light-nhl-stadium-series-announced--philadelphia-flyers/c-293158878|website=PhiladelphiaFlyers.com|publisher=National Hockey League|access-date=November 20, 2017|date=November 19, 2017}}</ref> to celebrate both teams' 50th anniversaries, plus another playoff series between the two teams during the [[2018 Stanley Cup playoffs|2018 Eastern Conference First Round]]. In the [[2017 NHL Stadium Series]], set at Pittsburgh's [[Heinz Field]], the Penguins defeated the Flyers 4–2.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nhl.com/news/philadelphia-flyers-pittsburgh-penguins-game-recap/c-287128942 | title=Penguins defeat Flyers in Stadium Series game | publisher=NHL.com | date= February 25, 2017 | access-date=March 4, 2018}}</ref> In the [[2019 NHL Stadium Series]], set at Philadelphia's [[Lincoln Financial Field]], the Flyers bested the Penguins in a 4–3 overtime victory,<ref name="flyers_nss"/> rallying from a seemingly insurmountable 3–1 deficit in the final frame with two [[extra attacker]] goals.
The rivalry once again received significant attention by the end of the 2010s with two [[NHL Stadium Series]] matches between the two teams in 2017 and 2019 to celebrate both teams' 50th anniversaries, plus another playoff series between the two teams during the [[2018 Stanley Cup playoffs|2018 Eastern Conference first round]].<ref name="flyers_nss">{{cite web|title=2019 Coors Light NHL Stadium Series Announced|url=https://www.nhl.com/flyers/news/2019-coors-light-nhl-stadium-series-announced--philadelphia-flyers/c-293158878|website=NHL.com|publisher=NHL Enterprises, L. P.|accessdate=November 20, 2017|date=November 19, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Fans Brave Dropping Temperatures For NHL Stadium Series Game|url=https://www.cbsnews.com/pittsburgh/news/fans-brave-dropping-temperatures-for-nhl-stadium-series-game/|accessdate=February 27, 2017|publisher=CBS Broadcasting, Inc.|date=February 25, 2017}}</ref> In the [[2017 NHL Stadium Series]], set at Pittsburgh's [[Heinz Field]], the Penguins defeated the Flyers 4–2.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nhl.com/news/philadelphia-flyers-pittsburgh-penguins-game-recap/c-287128942|title=Penguins defeat Flyers in Stadium Series game|last=Rosen|first=Dan|publisher=NHL Enterprises, L. P.|date=February 25, 2017|accessdate=March 4, 2018}}</ref> In the [[2019 NHL Stadium Series]], set at Philadelphia's [[Lincoln Financial Field]], the Flyers bested the Penguins in a 4–3 overtime victory,<ref name="flyers_nss"/> rallying from a seemingly insurmountable 3–1 deficit in the final frame with two [[extra attacker]] goals.


Between these two outdoor matches, the Penguins also defeated the Flyers in their 2018 playoff clash, four games to two, following a season sweep courtesy of Pittsburgh. The first four games of the series were all lopsided, including a 7–0 win by Pittsburgh in Game 1, a 5–1 win by Philadelphia in Game 2, a 5–1 win by Pittsburgh in Game 3, and a 5–0 win by Pittsburgh in Game 4. The next 2 games were much closer. Game 5 saw a 4–2 Philadelphia win, with [[Sean Couturier]] scoring the game-winning goal with just over a minute left in regulation. The Penguins clinched the series with an 8–5 win in Game 6 at Philadelphia. [[Jake Guentzel]] tallied 4 goals in the game for the Penguins, while [[Sean Couturier]] tallied 3 goals and 2 assists. The series saw 43 total goals.
Between these two outdoor matches, the Penguins also defeated the Flyers in their 2018 playoff clash, four games to two, following a season sweep courtesy of Pittsburgh. The first four games of the series were all lopsided, including a 7–0 win by Pittsburgh in Game 1, a 5–1 win by Philadelphia in Game 2, a 5–1 win by Pittsburgh in Game 2, and a 5–0 win by Pittsburgh in Game 4. The next two games were much closer. Game 5 saw a 4–2 Philadelphia win, with [[Sean Couturier]] scoring the game-winning goal with just over a minute left in regulation. The Penguins clinched the series with an 8–5 win in Game 6 at Philadelphia. [[Jake Guentzel]] tallied four goals in the game for the Penguins, while [[Sean Couturier]] tallied three goals and two assists. The series saw 43 total goals.


==Cultural impact==
==Cultural impact==
The rivalry is frequently regarded as the most intense in the league. The rivalry has been referred to as "The Keystone State Rivalry" and "The Pennsylvania Cold War", references to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania's nickname. Both teams have very loyal fan bases that essentially divide the Commonwealth's loyalty in half; the eastern half of the state consists of mostly Flyer fans, while the western half consists of mostly Penguin fans. Both teams regularly sellout their arenas, [[Wells Fargo Center (Philadelphia)|Wells Fargo Center]] and [[PPG Paints Arena]], respectively. At most games, derogatory chants will sound towards the opposition. Flyers fans often chant "Crosby sucks" towards Penguins captain [[Sidney Crosby]], as well as booing whenever he touches the puck. Their antics reached a new high, as during Game 3 of the 2018 playoffs, pictures of Crosby appeared in the urinals inside of Wells Fargo Center.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nhl/2018/04/16/sidney-crosby-nhl-playoffs-penguins-flyers/521435002/|title = Penguins' Sidney Crosby isn't impressed with Flyers fans' urinal prank|website = [[USA Today]]}}</ref> On the other side, Penguins fans tend to simply chant, "Flyers suck", rather than singling out specific players.<ref>http://www.hockeyforums.net/index.php?/topic/30788-flyers-suck-chant/</ref> Several fights have broken out between fans, the most recent coming after the 2012 playoffs.
The rivalry has been referred to as "The Keystone State Rivalry" and "The Pennsylvania Cold War", references to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania's nickname. Both teams have very loyal fan bases that essentially divide the Commonwealth's loyalty in half; the eastern half of the state consists of mostly Flyers fans, while the western half consists of mostly Penguins fans. Both teams regularly sell out their arenas, [[Wells Fargo Center (Philadelphia)|Wells Fargo Center]] and [[PPG Paints Arena]], respectively. At most games, derogatory chants will sound towards the opposition. Flyers fans often chant "Crosby sucks" towards Penguins captain [[Sidney Crosby]], as well as booing whenever he touches the puck. Their antics reached a new high, as during game three of the 2018 playoffs, pictures of Crosby appeared in the urinals inside of Wells Fargo Center.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nhl/2018/04/16/sidney-crosby-nhl-playoffs-penguins-flyers/521435002/|title=Penguins' Sidney Crosby isn't impressed with Flyers fans' urinal prank|last=Hascup|first=Jimmy|newspaper=USA Today|date=April 16, 2018|accessdate=July 14, 2023}}</ref> On the other side, Penguins fans tend to simply chant, "Flyers suck," rather than singling out specific players. Several fights broke out between fans, the most recent coming after the 2012 playoffs.

The rivalry is a hot ticket in both cities; it is often the most anticipated match-up of the season. The rivalry is such that former Penguin [[Ryan Malone]], who grew up in Pittsburgh due to his dad [[Greg Malone (ice hockey)|Greg Malone]] having also played for the Penguins, told his agent not to field any free agent offers from the Flyers.<ref>{{cite tweet|number=1362840270694461445|user=MarkMaddenX|title=It's worth noting, though...when @Bugsy12Malone became a free agent, he told his agent: "Not the Flyers. Anybody bu…|date=19 February 2021}}</ref>


==See also==
==See also==
*[[National Hockey League rivalries]]
* [[List of NHL rivalries]]
*[[Phillies–Pirates rivalry]]
* [[Eagles–Steelers rivalry]]
*[[Eagles–Steelers rivalry]]
* [[Phillies–Pirates rivalry]]

==Notes==
{{notelist}}


==References==
==References==

Latest revision as of 05:40, 24 December 2024

Flyers–Penguins rivalry
Philadelphia Flyers
Pittsburgh Penguins
First meetingOctober 19, 1967[1]
Latest meetingDecember 23, 2024
Next meetingFebruary 8, 2025
Statistics
Meetings total353
All-time series186–124–30–13 (PHI)
Regular season series165–104–30–13 (PHI)
Postseason results21–20 (PHI)
Largest victoryPHI 11–0 PIT
October 20, 1977
Longest win streakPHI W11
Current win streakPIT W3
Postseason history

The Flyers–Penguins rivalry, also known as the Battle of Pennsylvania, is a National Hockey League (NHL) rivalry between the Philadelphia Flyers and Pittsburgh Penguins ice hockey clubs.[8][9][10] Both teams compete in the NHL's Eastern Conference Metropolitan Division. The rivalry began in 1967, when the teams were introduced into the NHL's "Next Six" expansion wave. The rivalry exists due to divisional alignment and geographic location, as both teams play in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The Flyers and Penguins met in the Stanley Cup playoffs four times in 11 years from 2008 to 2018, strengthening the rivalry.[11]

History

[edit]

Early days

[edit]

The first meeting between the Flyers and Penguins occurred on October 19, 1967, in the first-ever game at the Philadelphia Spectrum.[12] Flyers goaltender Doug Favell stopped all 17 Pittsburgh shots and Bill Sutherland scored the lone goal 2:59 into the third period for a 1–0 Flyers win.[12]

The rivalry was not as strong in earlier years, as the Penguins struggled in the NHL until the arrival of Mario Lemieux in 1984–85. The Flyers achieved just the opposite, winning back-to-back Stanley Cups in 1974 and 1975. When the NHL realigned divisions prior to the 1974–75 season, the two Pennsylvania teams were moved to separate divisions. The Penguins spent the next seven seasons in the Norris Division and became the Flyers' division rivals once again upon joining the Patrick Division in 1981–82.

Most notably during this era was the Penguins' 42-game winless streak at the Spectrum; from February 7, 1974, through February 2, 1989, the Penguins were 0–39–3 at the Spectrum. From 1967 to 1989, Philadelphia went 86–36–19 against Pittsburgh.

Arrival of Mario Lemieux

[edit]

After years of underperformance, the arrival of Mario Lemieux in Pittsburgh gave the Penguins respectability in the NHL. In 1988–89, the Flyers and the Penguins met for the first time in the playoffs in the Patrick Division Finals.

The series proved to be a turning point for both franchises. The Flyers missed the playoffs for the next five seasons, while the Penguins became an annual contender with such stars as Lemieux, Jaromir Jagr, Ron Francis, and Larry Murphy. The Penguins peaked with two Stanley Cup championships in 1991 and 1992, having missed the 1990 playoffs.

Eric Lindros and the 1990s

[edit]

The rivalry continued during the 1990s with the arrival of Eric Lindros in Philadelphia, which gave the Flyers a counterbalance against Lemieux. Further divisional realignment split the teams up again in 1993–94, and the Penguins spent the next five seasons in the Northeast Division. Lindros and Jagr were tied for 70 points; the League scoring lead in 1994–95, but Jagr won the Art Ross Trophy for having scored three more goals than Lindros (32 to 29). Lindros, however, won the Hart Memorial Trophy that season as League MVP, with Lemieux winning it the following season in 1995–96, with Lindros as first runner-up. During that same season, the Flyers won the Eastern Conference's crown by one point in the standings, despite Pittsburgh having 49 wins to Philadelphia's 45. The two teams met again in the playoffs, in the 1997 Eastern Conference quarterfinals. The Flyers won in five games, and Lemieux subsequently retired for the first time at the end of the series. After game five, Lemieux skated around the ice and received a standing ovation from the Philadelphia crowd.[13] He previously received a standing ovation from the Philadelphia crowd in March 1993 after returning from radiation treatments.[14][15]

One of the most memorable moments of the rivalry occurred during the 1999–2000 season when the two teams met in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. A season after the Penguins joined the Atlantic Division, the Flyers had won the Division with the best record in the East, while the Penguins made the playoffs as the seventh seed. Despite this, the Penguins jumped out to a 2–0 series lead, winning both games in Philadelphia. The Flyers won Game 3 in overtime, but NHL history was made in Game 4. Tied at 1–1, the game stretched to five overtime periods and set the record for the longest game played in the modern era of the NHL. Keith Primeau's goal at the 92:01 mark of overtime (152:01 overall) gave the Flyers a 2–1 win and a 2–2 split in the series.[16] The outcome energized the Flyers and demoralized the Penguins, as the Flyers won the next two games and the series.

Rivalry in the 21st century

[edit]

The rivalry between the two teams lost its luster in the years leading up to the 2004–05 NHL lockout, as the Penguins struggled on-and-off the ice, dropping to the bottom of the League standings.

In 2006–07, the Penguins defeated the Flyers in all eight matchups between the two teams, and Penguins goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury became the first goaltender to defeat a team eight times in a season since 1967–68. The Flyers have swept the season series three times, winning all four games during the 1980–81 season, all seven games during the 1983–84 season, and all four games during the 2014–15 season. During the 2007–08 season, the Flyers won five games and the Penguins won three in the season series. The series was highlighted by an 8–2 win by the Flyers and a 7–1 win by the Penguins. The Penguins and the Flyers faced off in the 2008 Eastern Conference finals, won by the Penguins in five games for the Penguins' first-ever playoff series win against the Flyers. A year later, in the 2009 Eastern Conference quarterfinals, the Penguins beat the Flyers again, winning the series 4–2 on their way to winning the Stanley Cup.

In the 2010–11 season opener, Philadelphia traveled to Pittsburgh to open the Penguins new arena, the Consol Energy Center, on October 7. Rookie goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky made his NHL debut, leading the Flyers to a 3–2 victory.[17] Flyers forward Danny Briere scored the first NHL goal in the new building, and Penguins forward Tyler Kennedy scored the first Penguins goal.

On July 1, 2011, the Flyers signed former Penguins Jaromir Jagr and Maxime Talbot to a one-year, $3.3 million deal and a five-year, $9 million deal, respectively.[18][19] Whilst playing for Pittsburgh two years earlier, Talbot scored both goals in the Penguins' Cup-clinching Game 7 win against the Detroit Red Wings in 2009.[18]

The rivalry between the two teams briefly became an alliance late in 2011, when Commissioner Gary Bettman and the NHL began discussions for league realignment from six divisions to four. One proposal would have resulted in separating the Penguins and Flyers into different divisions and lowering their in-season matchups from six to two. Members of both organizations actively spoke against breaking up the two teams, citing the importance of the rivalry to the teams, the fans, as well as the state of Pennsylvania.[20] When the re-aligned conferences were unveiled later that year, both teams were placed in the eventually-named Metropolitan Division, ensuring the rivalry's continuation.[21]

On April 1, 2012, the Flyers and Penguins were involved in a late-game skirmish at Consol Energy Center. The game, which the Flyers won 6–4, was highlighted by Flyers Head Coach Peter Laviolette and Penguins Assistant Coach Tony Granato standing atop the boards and engaged in a verbal altercation.[22] Both were eventually fined by the NHL.[23] On April 7, the Penguins defeated the Flyers for the first time in six games at Consol Energy Center, winning 4–2.

The teams met again in the 2012 Eastern Conference quarterfinals, their third meeting in five seasons. The Flyers won the series in six games. The teams combined for an NHL-record 45 goals in the first four games, as well as combining for 309 penalty minutes (158 of which were in Philadelphia's 8–4 game three victory, which put them ahead 3–0 in the series) throughout the fight-filled, six-game series.

The rivalry once again received significant attention by the end of the 2010s with two NHL Stadium Series matches between the two teams in 2017 and 2019 to celebrate both teams' 50th anniversaries, plus another playoff series between the two teams during the 2018 Eastern Conference first round.[24][25] In the 2017 NHL Stadium Series, set at Pittsburgh's Heinz Field, the Penguins defeated the Flyers 4–2.[26] In the 2019 NHL Stadium Series, set at Philadelphia's Lincoln Financial Field, the Flyers bested the Penguins in a 4–3 overtime victory,[24] rallying from a seemingly insurmountable 3–1 deficit in the final frame with two extra attacker goals.

Between these two outdoor matches, the Penguins also defeated the Flyers in their 2018 playoff clash, four games to two, following a season sweep courtesy of Pittsburgh. The first four games of the series were all lopsided, including a 7–0 win by Pittsburgh in Game 1, a 5–1 win by Philadelphia in Game 2, a 5–1 win by Pittsburgh in Game 2, and a 5–0 win by Pittsburgh in Game 4. The next two games were much closer. Game 5 saw a 4–2 Philadelphia win, with Sean Couturier scoring the game-winning goal with just over a minute left in regulation. The Penguins clinched the series with an 8–5 win in Game 6 at Philadelphia. Jake Guentzel tallied four goals in the game for the Penguins, while Sean Couturier tallied three goals and two assists. The series saw 43 total goals.

Cultural impact

[edit]

The rivalry has been referred to as "The Keystone State Rivalry" and "The Pennsylvania Cold War", references to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania's nickname. Both teams have very loyal fan bases that essentially divide the Commonwealth's loyalty in half; the eastern half of the state consists of mostly Flyers fans, while the western half consists of mostly Penguins fans. Both teams regularly sell out their arenas, Wells Fargo Center and PPG Paints Arena, respectively. At most games, derogatory chants will sound towards the opposition. Flyers fans often chant "Crosby sucks" towards Penguins captain Sidney Crosby, as well as booing whenever he touches the puck. Their antics reached a new high, as during game three of the 2018 playoffs, pictures of Crosby appeared in the urinals inside of Wells Fargo Center.[27] On the other side, Penguins fans tend to simply chant, "Flyers suck," rather than singling out specific players. Several fights broke out between fans, the most recent coming after the 2012 playoffs.

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Series records : Philadelphia Flyers (H) against Pittsburgh Penguins (A)". mcubed.net. Retrieved October 30, 2019.
  2. ^ "1989 NHL Playoff Summary". Hockey-Reference.com. Sports Reference LLC. Retrieved October 18, 2010.
  3. ^ "1997 NHL Playoff Summary". Hockey-Reference.com. Sports Reference LLC. Retrieved October 18, 2010.
  4. ^ "2000 NHL Playoff Summary". Hockey-Reference.com. Sports Reference LLC. Retrieved October 18, 2010.
  5. ^ "2008 NHL Playoff Summary". Hockey-Reference.com. Sports Reference LLC. Retrieved October 18, 2010.
  6. ^ "2009 NHL Playoff Summary". Hockey-Reference.com. Sports Reference LLC. Retrieved October 18, 2010.
  7. ^ "2012 NHL Playoff Summary". Hockey-Reference.com. Sports Reference LLC. Retrieved April 20, 2012.
  8. ^ "Flyers-Penguins Is The NHL's Best Rivalry". Deadspin.com. G/O Media, Inc. February 21, 2013. Retrieved March 10, 2017.
  9. ^ ""I think this is currently the biggest rivalry in the NHL." - Four former NHL players talk Penguins vs. Flyers". Vox Media. March 2, 2017. Retrieved March 10, 2017.
  10. ^ Muir, Allan. "Ranking the NHL's 10 Best Rivalries". Sports Illustrated. Retrieved March 11, 2017.
  11. ^ "It's Philly vs. the Burgh". Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. May 11, 2008. p. B1.
  12. ^ a b "October 19th, 1967 - Flyers First Home Game". flyershistory.net. FlyersAlumni.net. Retrieved October 18, 2010.
  13. ^ Smith, Darren (April 16, 1997). "Mario leaves game on his terms". www.espn.com. Retrieved 2003-11-19.
  14. ^ Sell, Dave (March 2, 1993). "Lemieux Scores in Noisy Return". Washington Post. ISSN 0190-8286. Retrieved 2024-06-26.
  15. ^ Ciabattari, Kisha (March 2, 1993). "Flyers 5, Penguins 4". UPI Archives. Retrieved 2024-06-26.
  16. ^ "2000 NHL Playoffs - NHL Hockey Scoreboard: Recap: Philadelphia at Pittsburgh". CNN/Sports Illustrated. May 5, 2000. Archived from the original on March 19, 2014. Retrieved August 14, 2013.
  17. ^ Morreale, Mike G. (7 October 2010). "Flyers spoil Pens' debut in new home with 3-2 win". NHL.com. NHL Enterprises, L. P. Retrieved October 8, 2010.
  18. ^ a b Carchidi, Sam (July 2, 2011). "Flyers add Jagr and lose Leino–Talbot and Lilja also are in". Philadelphia Inquirer. p. D1.
  19. ^ Molinari, Dave (July 2, 2011). "Busy Day at the Office–Bidding War Ends with Jagr as Flyer; Talbot Joins Him, Too". Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. p. D1.
  20. ^ Sanfilippo, Anthony (October 31, 2011). "Flyers, Penguins join forces to fight proposal of realigning the divisions". The Times Herald. Retrieved April 12, 2017.
  21. ^ Baicker, Sarah (December 6, 2011). "Flyers react to NHL's new realignment". nbcsportsphiladelphia.com. NBCUniversal Media, LLC. Retrieved October 19, 2018.
  22. ^ Seravalli, Frank (April 2, 2012). "Stoking the Flyers: Melee could be sign of playoff swings to come with Penguins". Philadelphia Daily News. p. 78.
  23. ^ "Flyers coach, Penguins assistant fined by NHL". NHL.com. National Hockey League. Associated Press. April 2, 2012. Retrieved April 7, 2012.
  24. ^ a b "2019 Coors Light NHL Stadium Series Announced". NHL.com. NHL Enterprises, L. P. November 19, 2017. Retrieved November 20, 2017.
  25. ^ "Fans Brave Dropping Temperatures For NHL Stadium Series Game". CBS Broadcasting, Inc. February 25, 2017. Retrieved February 27, 2017.
  26. ^ Rosen, Dan (February 25, 2017). "Penguins defeat Flyers in Stadium Series game". NHL Enterprises, L. P. Retrieved March 4, 2018.
  27. ^ Hascup, Jimmy (April 16, 2018). "Penguins' Sidney Crosby isn't impressed with Flyers fans' urinal prank". USA Today. Retrieved July 14, 2023.
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