Pavelski's hat trick leads second-period scoring outburst and Sharks hammer Flyers 7-3

PHILADELPHIA - Joe Pavelski had a hat trick to move into a tie for second in the NHL in goals scored, and Raffi Torres and Logan Couture each tallied twice in their return to the lineup following injuries as the San Jose Sharks defeated the Philadelphia Flyers 7-3 Thursday night in the first game for both teams following the Olympic break.

Pavelski, one of four Sharks Olympians, scored all three of his goals in a dominating second period when San Jose outscored the Flyers 5-0.

Andrej Meszaros had a highlight-reel tally, and Matt Read and Brayden Schenn also scored for the Flyers, who had won four straight before the Olympic break.