PHILADELPHIA — On Saturday night, Sam Ersson recorded 22 saves, marking his second shutout of the season as the Philadelphia Flyers secured a decisive 6-0 victory over the Anaheim Ducks. This game also marked Cutter Gauthier’s first appearance in Philadelphia since his trade to the Ducks a year ago.

Gauthier, selected by the Flyers with the fifth overall pick in the 2022 draft, had previously expressed his desire not to play for Philadelphia. His return to the city energized a packed arena where fans booed and chanted throughout the game every time he was on the ice.

Ersson’s achievement was significant as it contributed to breaking the Flyers’ four-game losing streak, marking his seventh career shutout. The offense was spread across several players, with goals from Morgan Frost, Jaime Drysdale, Owen Tippett, Ryan Poehling, Matvei Michkov, and Garnet Hathaway. In contrast, Ducks goalie John Gibson stopped 24 shots, but the team struggled, experiencing their third consecutive defeat.

A pivotal moment in the game came during the first period when Drysdale, whom the Flyers received in the trade for Gauthier, scored on the power play. This goal prompted the delighted crowd to chant “Thank You, Cutter!” and “Jaime’s better!” Drysdale was also instrumental in the game, adding an assist on Michkov’s goal.

A noteworthy statistic from the match featured Travis Konecny, who contributed four assists. One of his most impressive plays was a saucer pass to Tippett during a 2-on-1 situation that resulted in the Flyers’ third goal. With this performance, Konecny is leading the team with a total of 50 points this season.

Looking ahead, the Ducks are set to continue their six-game road trip with a matchup against the Carolina Hurricanes on Sunday night. Meanwhile, Philadelphia is preparing to complete their four-game homestand when they face off against the Florida Panthers on Monday night.