In a thrilling encounter at the Scotiabank Saddledome in Calgary, Alberta, the Calgary Flames edged past the Dallas Stars with a score of 3-2, thanks to a decisive goal from Nazem Kadri in the fourth round of a shootout. This victory marks a crucial moment for the Flames, lifting them out of the NHL cellar as they improve to a record of 7-13-3, accumulating 17 points—just one point ahead of the last-place Nashville Predators, who have played two fewer games.
Calgary surged ahead early in the match, with Matt Coronato and Joel Farabee both finding the net, establishing a 2-0 lead. The Stars fought back in the third period, with Jason Robertson and Roope Hintz scoring to level the game. Robertson’s goal extended his impressive scoring streak to six games, bringing his total to 13 goals for the season.
In the shootout, Kadri displayed his skill, executing a slick forehand to backhand deke before sliding the puck under the crossbar, putting Calgary in front. Flames goaltender Devin Cooley then sealed the win by stopping Hintz’s shot, solidifying his performance with 28 saves. The Stars, now at 13-5-4, saw their hopes of victory dashed despite Casey DeSmith making an impressive 31 saves.
The game was not without its controversies. Mikko Rantanen of the Stars was ejected in the final minute of the second period after delivering a heavy check on Coronato, who left the ice bleeding. This incident marked Rantanen’s second boarding major and game misconduct in just six periods, having been thrown out of a previous game against the New York Islanders for a similar infraction. Currently, Rantanen leads the NHL with 57 penalty minutes, five more than Tom Wilson of the Washington Capitals.
In a display of team solidarity, Jonathan Huberdeau immediately dropped his gloves in defense of Coronato after the hit, engaging in a fight with Rantanen. This marked Huberdeau’s first fighting major since the 2018-19 preseason.
As the Flames celebrate this important win, they look ahead to their next challenge against the Vancouver Canucks on March 17, 2024. The Stars will travel to Edmonton to face the Oilers on March 19, 2024.
This match exemplifies the competitive spirit of the NHL, showcasing skill, resilience, and the high stakes of each game in the quest for playoff positions.
