Sidney Crosby talked with Pat McAfee ahead of Penguins-Flyers playoff series
April 17, 2026
As the Pittsburgh Penguins and Philadelphia Flyers prepare to renew their storied rivalry in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, Penguins captain Sidney Crosby joined "The Pat McAfee Show" to discuss the upcoming series and his long career in Pittsburgh. The appearance came just days before the puck drops on a highly anticipated first-round matchup, the first postseason meeting between the cross-state rivals since 2018. During the conversation, Crosby touched on his long-standing commitment to the city and the team, the influence of franchise icon Mario Lemieux, and the intensity of the "Battle of Pennsylvania."
This playoff series marks a significant return to the postseason for both franchises. The Penguins clinched their first playoff berth since the 2021-22 season, snapping a three-year drought that had many questioning the future of the team's veteran core. They finished second in the Metropolitan Division with 98 points under first-year head coach Dan Muse. The Flyers are also making their return after a longer absence, having not been in the playoffs since 2020. Under coach Rick Tocchet, a former Flyers player, Philadelphia concluded a multi-year rebuild by finishing third in the division, also with 98 points.
The history between the two clubs is long and intense, with this series marking their eighth meeting in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. While the Flyers hold a 4-3 edge in the all-time playoff series record, the Penguins have had the upper hand during the Crosby era, winning three of the last four postseason encounters. The last series in 2018 saw the Penguins advance after a hard-fought six-game battle. That series featured lopsided victories and tight contests, adding another chapter to a rivalry known for its animosity and memorable moments dating back to their first playoff clash in 1989.
The journey to the 2026 playoffs has been different for each team. The Penguins, led by the enduring trio of Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang, defied expectations of a decline. General Manager Kyle Dubas made several key moves that resulted in a high-scoring offense and formidable special teams units, making them a legitimate contender. For Philadelphia, this season represents a successful emergence from a rebuilding phase. Captain Sean Couturier and a mix of veteran and young players have forged a resilient identity, finishing the season strong to secure their playoff spot.
With Game 1 scheduled for Saturday night in Pittsburgh, the stage is set for a compelling series. For Crosby and the Penguins' established core, it's another chance to pursue a fourth Stanley Cup, cementing their legacy. For the resurgent Flyers, it's an opportunity to prove their rebuild is complete and to dethrone their archrivals. The winner will not only claim state bragging rights but also advance to the second round, leaving the other to contemplate an offseason that arrived sooner than desired.
Source: postgazette