Rangers’ Zibanejad Makes History, Snaps Skid with Hat Trick Against Flyers

Zibanejad’s Record Night Powers Rangers to Much-Needed Win

NEW YORK — Mika Zibanejad made Rangers’ history on Saturday night, scoring three goals to tie the franchise record for most career hat tricks and becoming the team’s all-time leader in power-play goals in a 6-3 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers.

Zibanejad’s Historic Night

With a man advantage at 5:38 of the second period, Zibanejad tallied his 117th career power-play goal, moving past Camille Henry and Chris Kreider (both with 116). His first-period goal at 7:26 gave the Rangers the lead for good, and he completed his scoring at 8:25 of the second, matching Bill Cook with nine career hat tricks for the Rangers.

“It’s always special to score a hat trick, but to do it in a game like this, where we really needed the two points, makes it even more rewarding,” said Zibanejad.

— Mika Zibanejad

Rangers Snap Winless Streak, Sullivan Earns 500th Win

The Rangers, who entered the game on a five-game skid and had not won since January 2 against Florida, got goals from Artemi Panarin (two), Brennan Othmann, and a pair of assists each from J.T. Miller, Alexis Lafreniere, and Vincent Trocheck. Spencer Martin stopped 25 shots for his first win of the season.

In his first season with the Rangers after winning two Stanley Cups with the Penguins, coach Mike Sullivan earned his 500th career coaching win.

Flyers’ Streak Continues

The Flyers, who lost their sixth straight game, got a goal and an assist each from Travis Konecny, Travis Sanheim, and Trevor Zegras. Sam Ersson made 22 saves. Center Rodrigo Abols left in the first period with a lower-body injury and did not return.

Up Next

• Rangers: At Anaheim on Monday for the second game of a four-game trip.
• Flyers: At Vegas on Monday in the opener of a three-game trip.

Did you know?

• Mika Zibanejad is just the 10th player in Rangers’ history to score a hat trick at least three times.
• Mike Sullivan is the 22nd coach in NHL history to reach 500 career wins.

Why it matters

The Rangers’ victory was crucial to keeping their playoff hopes alive, while the Flyers’ losing streak raises questions about their direction moving forward.

Pro tip

Want to support the Rangers and Flyers? Stay updated with the latest schedules, scores, and stats on NHL.com.

Call to action

Have a favorite Mika Zibanejad or Mike Sullivan moment? Share it with us in the comments!
Like what you’re reading? Subscribe to our newsletter for more exclusive content.