The Philadelphia Flyers have compiled an 8-5-3 record through 16 games in the 2025-26 NHL season, ranking third in the league with a 2.56 goals-against average. Strong goaltending from Dan Vladar and enhanced team defense have fueled this early success. However, offensive production remains a concern, with the team last in 5-on-5 goals scored.
The Philadelphia Flyers' early season performance highlights a marked improvement in defensive play compared to last year. Through 16 games, their goals-against average stands at 2.56, placing them third in the NHL, a significant leap from 28th at 3.59 through a similar point in the 2024-25 season. This turnaround stems from better execution in team defense and solid goaltending.
Dan Vladar has been a key factor, posting a 2.15 goals-against average and .919 save percentage. The skaters have supported him by reducing high-danger chances, cutting down on back-door goals, and minimizing screens on the goaltender. The Flyers lead the league in fewest expected goals against at 5-on-5 and rank second in limiting opposition carry-ins.
A recent example came in their overtime loss to the Edmonton Oilers, where the Flyers held Leon Draisaitl without a shot attempt and limited Connor McDavid to one shot on goal and one assist. The team's 1-2-2 neutral zone forecheck and box-plus-one defensive zone system have forced opponents to the perimeter, contributing to their top ranking in fewest odd-man rushes allowed.
Special teams have also shone, with the penalty kill at 88.7 percent efficiency, second in the NHL. The power play has improved to 15th at 20.4 percent. Offseason additions like Vladar, Trevor Zegras—who leads the team in scoring—and Noah Juulsen have integrated well, providing depth amid injuries such as Rasmus Ristolainen's absence.
Offensively, challenges persist. The Flyers generate the fewest shots on goal per game and rank 30th in goals per game at 2.56, particularly struggling at 5-on-5. Efforts to enhance rush offense, net-front presence, and forechecking are ongoing, but improvement is needed to reach three goals per game consistently.