Rangers Overcome Flyers in Thrilling Shootout

New York Rangers overcame a challenging situation to secure a 5-4 shootout win against the Philadelphia Flyers on December 20, 2025, at Madison Square Garden. The Rangers initially held a 1-0 lead but fell behind 3-1 midway through the second period after conceding three goals in less than four minutes.

A penalty called on Flyers defenseman Nicolas Deslauriers for boarding Rangers forward Brennan Othmann set up a power play for New York, during which Mika Zibanejad scored to tie the game late in the third period.

Rangers head coach Mike Sullivan praised the team's resilience, noting their ability to respond in the third period after a tough second. Defenseman Braden Schneider emphasized the importance of the team's character and momentum from the goals scored by Vincent Trocheck and Zibanejad, stating that they were building a thicker skin and greater confidence.

Despite being penalized twice in overtime, the Rangers' penalty kill was effective, allowing them to reach the shootout. Artemi Panarin and Trocheck successfully converted in the shootout, sealing the victory.

Pre-game, Sullivan discussed the decision to start top prospect Gabe Perreault on the third line, which allowed him to play without the added pressure of facing the opponent's top players. Perreault responded well, contributing an assist on Trocheck's goal and finishing with a plus-1 rating.

However, Rangers forward J.T. Miller left the game in the third period due to an upper-body injury after a hit from Flyers defenseman Nick Seeler, and his status was still being evaluated post-game. The Rangers' win marked their second third-period, multi-goal comeback of the season, reinforcing their playoff aspirations and showcasing their determination.