Philadelphia Flyers

Since the inception of the National Hockey League, one team has been a member from Philadelphia. The franchise began to play in 1917 as the Philadelphia Quakers, a member of the American Hockey Association. The Quakers claimed three consecutive league championships in the 1920s and became one of the most successful franchises in AHL history. After the league merged with the NHL in 1967, Philadelphia hosted the Flyers for the league’s inaugural season.

Led by stars such as Bobby Clarke and Bernie Parent, the Flyers emerged as a formidable force in the NHL. In their first 50 years, the Flyers compiled a record of 479-373-147, winning eight division titles and six conference championships. Their most successful period came during the 1980s when they captured five division titles and reached the Stanley Cup Finals twice. After falling short on both occasions, the Flyers embarked on a rebuild that has taken them to new heights.

The Flyers’ resurgence began in the 2001-02 season. After struggling to compete in the elite division, the Flyers made a major shift, signing free agents such as Eric Lindros, Chris Pronger, and Keith Primeau. The team responded by posting a record of 54-20-6, earning a berth in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. After reaching the Eastern Conference Finals, the Flyers fell to the New Jersey Devils in five games. The 2001-02 season is widely viewed as the start of the Flyers’ current dynasty.

The Flyers have continued to play at an elite level over the past decade. In the 2009-10 season, they claimed their 16th division title and advanced to the Stanley Cup Finals for the seventh time in franchise history. After dispatching the Chicago Blackhawks in six games, the Flyers were defeated by the Detroit Red Wings in the Stanley Cup Finals. The Flyers’ success has led to regular sellouts at the Wells Fargo Center and a fanbase known for its passionate support.