Flyers' Slow Start Raises Questions About Vladar's Form

Philadelphia has opened 2026-27 with a nine-game winless streak, and its 5-on-5 expected goal share is the worst in the league. Dan Vladar owns an .875 save percentage and 4.21 goals-against average, though those numbers are heavily affected by a 7-0 loss to Pittsburgh; since then he has posted a .898 save percentage and 3.29 GAA. Joseph Woll has played well despite a 0-3-2 record, and the article argues goaltending is not the Flyers' main issue.

Philadelphia's 2026-27 opening skid has reached nine games without a win, and its 34.12% five-on-five expected-goal share is last in the NHL, trailing Chicago and Vancouver. Dan Vladar's overall .875 save percentage and 4.21 GAA are distorted by a season-opening 7-0 home loss to Pittsburgh, in which he made 24 saves on 31 shots.

Across his next three appearances, Vladar recorded a .898 save percentage, 3.29 GAA, and 0.0 goals saved above expected. Joseph Woll has posted a .916 save percentage and 2.77 GAA despite an 0-3-2 record. Philadelphia's five-on-five team save percentage ranks 15th.

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