The current version of the Calgary Flames, who exploded for nine goals in last night’s battle of Alberta triumph, never cease to surprise and amaze.
Scoring nine goals in a single encounter against one of the best teams in the conference is no easy feat. But the Flames accomplished the rewarding deed in style, making the gargantuan task seem ordinary, even simple.
While nearly impossible to concisely sum up the historic victory, here’s the three best things about Calgary’s dominant victory over their most bitter rivals.
3. Flames score nine even strength goals
When Flames fans are chanting “we want 10,” you know it’s one for the ages.
All of Calgary’s goals came at even strength. The scoreline actually flattered the Oilers, who scored three of five with the man advantage. Had it not been for some undisciplined play, Calgary would have won even more comprehensively.
Back to Calgary’s nine goals. Yes, nine.
The Flames had 76 shot attempts last night, which will probably cause both Oilers’ netminders a string of forthcoming sleepless nights. The Flames’ top line was, as usual, absolutely dominant.
But the offensive outburst was about so much more than just the first line’s exceptional proficiency. Every line contributed to the team’s biggest offensive splash of the season. Oliver Kylington and Christopher Tanev got on the scoresheet, while Mikael Backlund and Dillon Dube buoyed the home team with timely secondary scoring.
Physically beating up on Connor McDavid, Backlund played with a clear chip on his shoulder. Backlund, other than taking an undisciplined penalty on the Oilers’ superstar, was excellent and deserves high praise for an outstanding performance.
2. The league’s top scorer since Feb. 2, Elias Lindholm
Forever humble and assuming, Elias Lindholm added two more to his season tally last night. Of course the Swede wouldn’t dare take the credit, instead recognizing his “magician” linemates. Lindholm, though, is as deserving of the plaudits as any of his teammates.
Lindholm has 34 goals this season, 19 of which since Feb. 2, the most of any player in the NHL during that timeframe. Austin Matthews, who has 18, trails Calgary’s Swede by a goal.
Someone is going to have to force Lindholm to take a bow, as he certainly won’t do it voluntarily.
1. Johnny Hockey with five assists in dominating performance
Johnny Hockey dominated all facets of the game, once again putting the NHL on notice. The diminutive all-star deserves heaps of praise for the way he has acquitted himself all season, particularly in important games against elite competition.
Gaudreau notched five assists in the epic win and is now third in league scoring with 90 points. If you’re wondering who he is trailing, look no further than into last night’s opposing locker room. McDavid (97 points) and Leon Draisaitl (94 points) are the two frontrunners Johnny will do his utmost to track down.
Remember where you were on the evening of Saturday, March 27. The unforgettable14-goal game was an extravaganza that only comes around once in a generation. Enjoy it for what it was, a historic performance for the ages, one Calgary fans will never let Oilers’ supporters forget.