Dan Vladar absolutely had a strong showing in the Philadelphia Flyers’ 2025 Pre-Season, especially as the newly signed No. 2 goaltender behind Samuel Ersson.
After inking a two-year, $6.7 million deal with the Flyers back in July to bolster the crease, Vladar quickly adapted to his new squad and delivered consistent performances across his starts. Here are some key Highlights from Vladar’s Pre-Season:
- Debut vs. Washington Capitals (Sept. 25): In his first taste of Flyers action at the Giant Center in Hershey, Vladar played the full game in a 5-3 loss. Despite the lopsided score, he faced a barrage of shots early and provided stability for a young, experimental lineup featuring prospects like Jett Luchanko and Alex Bump. Post-game, he quipped about needing to “keep them off the ice tomorrow” after the team hit a fatigue wall—showing his veteran poise at age 27.
- vs. Boston Bruins (Sept. 29): Vladar shone brightest here, tending goal for the entire 3-2 shootout win on the road. He turned aside 28 of 30 shots (.933 save percentage) and got the nod as the top performer of the night from beat writers, earning “brownie points” from Flyers fans for his sharp playmaking and rebound control. This outing ramped up his workload as planned and helped solidify his role.
- Pre-Season Finale vs. New Jersey Devils (Oct. 4): Closing out camp at home, Vladar again went the distance in a 4-3 shootout victory, stopping 22 of 25 shots (.880 save percentage). There was a hiccup on a third-period misplay leading to the Devils’ go-ahead goal, but he bounced back strong in overtime and the skills comp. Afterward, Vladar called the experience “felt good” and praised the locker room’s welcoming vibe and no-quit mentality.
Overall, Vladar posted a 2-1-0 record in three full-game starts, allowing just seven goals while facing 80 shots. His efforts impressed coach Rick Tocchet, who ramped up his minutes to build chemistry, and he’s now locked in as the backup for the regular-season opener Thursday against the Florida Panthers.
With Ersson pegged as the starter, Vladar’s steady glove and positioning could make this tandem a real asset—especially after the Flyers’ goaltending woes last year. If he carries this momentum, expect him to steal a few starts early on. What are your thoughts—ready for the Vladar/Ersson duo to surprise some folks?
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