Philadelphia Flyers Week Ahead: Schedule & Storylines – Heartbreaking Loss, Jiříček Shines, and More – The Hockey Writers – Philadelphia Flyers

The Philadelphia Flyers have improved their play recently, but all that’s on the mind is one stinker to end the week. In this week-ahead piece, we talk about their heartbreaking loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets, prospect David Jiříček‘s impressive performance, and more.

Heartbreaker vs. Columbus

In previous Flyers Week Ahead posts, I’ve highlighted the team’s low odds of qualifying for the postseason (despite what players and management keep saying). But on the morning of Saturday, March 14, there was actually some hope in the air.

If things had gone right, the Flyers could’ve pulled to within three points of a playoff spot. Unfortunately for them, they’re six points out after a 2–1 shootout loss to the Blue Jackets.

Related: 2 Takeaways From Flyers’ 2–1 Shootout Loss to Blue Jackets

It’s not over until it’s over, but that effectively puts any postseason dreams to rest. The Flyers would need to be essentially perfect the rest of the way, as even if a team in a wildcard spot slips, Columbus will be there to swoop in. They’re one point out and have lost just twice in regulation since Jan. 11 (a 22-game stretch).

At the same time, a top draft pick isn’t really in the cards. There’s always the possibility of moving up 10 spots via the lottery (the New York Islanders and Utah Mammoth both did so last spring), but don’t hang your hat on it.

Not to be overly gloomy, but the Flyers are once again in that weird middle space—not truly good or exciting, but far from bad.

Jiříček’s Three-Point Game

In some better news, Jiříček recorded three points—all assists—for the Lehigh Valley Phantoms on March 14.

Since being acquired by the Flyers at the trade deadline for Bobby Brink, Jiříček has shown promising flashes in the American Hockey League (AHL). He has one goal, three assists, and nine shots in three games thus far.

Eventually, the hope is for the 22-year-old to enter the Flyers’ everyday lineup. Perhaps that time is in 2026–27, as fellow right-shot defender Rasmus Ristolainen could be moved by then.

Flyers Schedule March 16–22