Penguins vs. Flyers: Game 3 NHL Playoff Predictions

The 2026 NHL playoffs are heating up as the Pittsburgh Penguins prepare to take on the Philadelphia Flyers in Game 3 of their first-round series on Wednesday. After the Flyers secured victories in the first two games, including a decisive 3-0 win in Game 2, the stakes are high for the Penguins as they look to bounce back on the road.

Historically, this matchup has been intense, with the Flyers holding a slight edge in their playoff series history against the Penguins, leading 4-3. The teams have faced each other four times during the regular season, splitting the series evenly, which adds to the anticipation of this playoff clash. The puck is set to drop at 7 p.m. ET at the Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia, promising a thrilling atmosphere for fans.

As for the betting odds, the Flyers are currently favored at -117, meaning a bet of $117 would yield a profit of $100 if they win. The over/under for total goals in the game is set at 5.5, reflecting expectations for a potentially low-scoring affair. This aligns with the trend seen in the first two games, both of which went under the total goals line, with only five goals scored in Game 1 and three in Game 2.

The SportsLine Projection Model, which has successfully predicted NHL outcomes this season, has simulated this matchup 10,000 times. The model suggests that the total goals will likely remain under 5.5, given that the Flyers have not surpassed this total in their last four games. Additionally, with Dan Vladar in goal, the Under has hit in 60% of games this season when he starts, further supporting this prediction.

As the series shifts to Philadelphia, the Flyers will look to capitalize on their home advantage. The Penguins, on the other hand, will need to regroup and find a way to score against a Flyers defense that has been performing well. With both teams eager to secure a crucial win, fans can expect a tightly contested game.

For those looking to place bets, the SportsLine model has identified valuable insights on the money line, which could influence betting strategies. As the excitement builds for Game 3, hockey fans and bettors alike will be keen to see how this rivalry unfolds on the ice.