While they lost, the Philadelphia Flyers were content in knowing they left it all out on the ice.
Their first-round series ended in six games Sunday with a 1-0 loss to the Washington Capitals, and Philly's core players made no excuses. The Caps were the league's best team this season, while the Flyers fought tooth and nail to qualify for the playoffs - and it showed.
Philadelphia managed only six goals in six games, but they battled, forcing Games 5 and 6 after falling behind 3-0. The entire organization was playing with heavy hearts, too, after owner Ed Snider passed away before the series began.
"I hope Mr. Snider is proud," head coach Dave Hakstol said in defeat, according to Philly.com's Sam Carchidi.
Lessons were learned, said Brayden Schenn.
"I think it gives everyone a taste of what the playoffs are like and what this building is like in the playoffs," the 24-year-old said. "We're still a young team and we still have a lot to prove, and it was good for us to squeak into the playoffs and get a taste of it."
Defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere added: "We have a great foundation here. Good things are going to happen."
