NHL Playoffs: Capitals vs. Flyers Game 4, full highlights, final score and more
The Philadelphia Flyers avoided elimination against the Washington Capitals by beating them 2-1 in Game 4.
19. Final. 2. 68. 1
The Philadelphia Flyers entered Game 4 needing a win against the President’s Trophy-winning Washington Capitals in order to survive in the playoffs for one more game. They were able to pull it out with a 2-1 win. Energized by a goaltending change to backup goaltender Michal Neuvirth, the Flyers squeaked out a Game 4 victory and now must win the next three games if they want to advance in the Stanley Cup playoffs.
Washington allowed an early power play goal to Shayne Gostisbehere and a second period goal to Andrew MacDonald. That was a hole that they could not dig themselves out of despite a very strong third period led by a goal by T.J. Oshie. Braden Holtby allowed two goals on 25 shots, but that wasn’t enough for the Caps to advance to the second round.
Three stars
Neuvirth was the primary star of the night. He saved the game for the Flyers. Neuvirth, facing his former team, stopped 31 of 32 shots on goal, holding the Caps to just one goal in the third period despite being outshot by seven shots. He did noticeably better than incumbent starter Steve Mason and will need to repeat this performance moving forward for the Flyers to have a chance at moving on to the second round.
Wayne Simmonds of the Flyers picked up two assists and was a great physical presence for Philadelphia. He picked up four hits and two shots on goal. Oshie scored the lone goal for the Capitals. He had three hits and two shots on goal.
Highlights
Next Game
The Caps will have to regroup. They will look to advance to the second round by winning Game 5 at the Verizon Center while the Flyers will look to extend their postseason.
For more coverage of the NHL Playoffs, make sure to check out our NHL hub page.