Flyers’ top line dominates as Philly rolls past Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers

The Flyers came out flying after a two-week break, and Sean Couturier’s line stole the show in a 6-3 win over the Oilers at Wells Fargo Center.

Couturier, Owen Tippett, and Matvei Michkov combined for four goals and four assists, with all three players finishing plus-5 on the night. The chemistry was undeniable, as they consistently found each other in open space and took full advantage of Edmonton’s defensive lapses.

Matvei Michkov Shines Again vs. McDavid

Michkov opened the scoring with his 17th goal of the season and later set up Couturier’s tally in the second period with a ridiculous pass. His elite vision continues to be a game-changer, allowing teammates to capitalize on his quick decision-making.

Can we give Mich an assist on his own goal?

Looking into this.#EDMvsPHI | #LetsGoFlyers pic.twitter.com/wRco5cRY2H

— Philadelphia Flyers (@NHLFlyers) February 22, 2025

With five points in two career games against Connor McDavid and the Oilers, Michkov has made it clear that he thrives in high-stakes matchups. His ability to make plays few others can has been a highlight all season, and he looked fully refreshed after the break.

McDavid didn’t make life easy for him, though. Early in the game, the Oilers’ superstar put him in a spin cycle with a dazzling move, leaving Michkov joking afterward that his head was still spinning.

Samuel Ersson Holds Down the Fort

Samuel Ersson didn’t have to be spectacular, but he did his job, stopping 15 of 18 shots and keeping McDavid completely off the scoresheet.

For reference, McDavid has absolutely torched them at home in Edmonton, putting up 24 points in nine home games against them. But in Philly? The Flyers are now 6-2-0 against the Oilers when McDavid comes to town, and they once again shut him down.

Andrei Kuzmenko’s First Goal in a Flyers Uniform

Andrei Kuzmenko made an immediate impact, scoring a slick give-and-go power-play goal off a feed from Travis Konecny. This a team that has desperately needed more offensive playmaking on their power play, and Kuzmenko showed why he can be a difference-maker.

Looks like Kuzy's fitting in nicely! #EDMvsPHI | #LetsGoFlyers pic.twitter.com/883xboQ3jx

— Philadelphia Flyers (@NHLFlyers) February 22, 2025

He wasn’t the only reinforcement making an impact—Rasmus Ristolainen, Egor Zamula, Ryan Poehling, and Tippett all returned from injury. Jakob Pelletier also made his Flyers debut, giving the fourth line some needed energy.

What’s Next? Pens Week Begins

The Flyers practice Monday before hosting the Penguins on Tuesday night. With Pittsburgh sinking in the standings, a rivalry win could go a long way in building momentum for the final playoff push.

Philly is now 25-26-7, and if their top line keeps playing like this, they’ll keep stacking wins in the second half.

Join The Chase