The Devils thought they had escaped a scare in overtime after a Flyers goal was called back, but Philadelphia then scored for good.
Phoenix continued its surge in the Western Conference, winning a high-scoring affair against Nashville.
Here are the recaps from the games that took place Sunday, April 29. Be sure to check out more of our in-depth Associated Press recaps and previews.
Philadelphia Flyers 4, New Jersey Devils 3 (OT)
PHILADELPHIA — Danny Briere had two chances to celebrate his overtime winner. The first time, his goal didn't count. The second time, Briere left no doubt and put away Game 1, once and for all.
Briere continued to stamp his name alongside Philadelphia's postseason greats, scoring the winning goal 4:36 into overtime, leading the Flyers to a 4-3 win over the New Jersey Devils on Sunday to open the Eastern Conference semifinal series. Read the complete story here.
Phoenix Coyotes 5, Nashville Predators 3
GLENDALE, Ariz. — Shane Doan, Radim Vrbata and Antoine Vermette each had a goal and an assist, and the Phoenix Coyotes avoided their usual overtime theatrics, beating the Nashville Predators 5-3 on Sunday night to take a 2-0 lead in the Western Conference semifinal series. Read the complete story here.