Flames Rally Past Kings for Second Straight Win
The Calgary Flames secured their second consecutive victory on Saturday, overcoming an early deficit to defeat the Los Angeles Kings 2-1. Rookie Matt Coronato led the charge with a goal and an assist, while goaltender dustin Wolf stood tall, making 31 saves, including several crucial stops in the final minutes.
The Kings, who entered the game riding a five-game winning streak, dominated the opening period, outshooting the Flames 16-5. Their pressure paid off at the 6:19 mark when defenseman Jacob Moverare capitalized on a Flames turnover, firing a long shot past Wolf for his second career goal.
Despite being outplayed, the Flames found their footing in the second period. Coronato tied the game at 8:58, converting a turnover forced by Mikael Backlund into a blistering shot that beat Kings goaltender David Rittich high.
Calgary took their first lead early in the third period.With the Kings shorthanded, Coronato’s shot from the slot was stopped, but Jonathan Huberdeau was there to bury the rebound, giving the Flames a 2-1 advantage.
Wolf’s stellar performance proved crucial in the final minutes. He denied Phillip Danault on two consecutive scoring chances, including a sprawling save on a rebound attempt with the Kings’ net empty.
A tripping penalty on Kings defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov with less than two minutes remaining hampered Los Angeles’s comeback efforts, allowing the Flames to secure the victory.
The win improves Calgary’s record, while the Kings’ five-game winning streak comes to an end.
From Slump to Surge: A Chat with Flames Legend Lanny McDonald
Welcome back to “After the Buzzer,” where we dissect the hottest games and trends in hockey! Joining me today is a true icon,a Stanley Cup champion,and someone who bleeds Calgary Flames red: the legendary Lanny McDonald.
Lanny, thanks for joining us. The flames secured a thrilling 2-1 win against the red-hot Kings last night, snapping their five-game winning streak. What were your initial thoughts watching that come-from-behind victory?
Lanny McDonald: Well, I’ve always admired the Kings’ grit, but I was incredibly proud of our Flames boys for battling back. Starting slow can be a recipe for disaster against a team like LA,but the second period comeback showed amazing character.
Absolutely. Rookie Matt Coronato was a force to be reckoned with – a goal and an assist. what impressed you most about his performance?
lanny McDonald: Young coronato showed poise beyond his years. Why, he was like a young me out there! That goal off the Backlund turnover? Textbook. He’s got that instinct, that knack for being in the right place at the right time. Its truly exciting to see a young talent flourish like that.
You mentioned poise, and that’s putting it mildly – especially considering the Kings were on fire going into this game. Do you think their five-game win streak played a part in the Flames’ early struggles? Did it cause any nerves in the locker room, perhaps?
Lanny McDonald: You know, it’s testament to these guys’ drive that thay weren’t fazed. Sure, LA was rolling, but every opponent is a new challenge, and this Flamse team is starting to understand that. They entrusted Dustin Wolf between the pipes, and he didn’t disappoint.
dustin Wolf was truly a wall, especially late in the game. Those crucial saves against Danault with the net empty, talk about a gut punch to the Kings’ momentum! Did those moments remind you of any clutch performances in your playing days?
Lanny McDonald: (Chuckles) Oh, those saves! They sure brought back memories.You need that cool head under pressure, that unwavering belief in yourself and your teammates. Those are the kind of saves that build confidence and win championships.
That brings us to the bigger picture: the Flames’ aspirations for this season. Do you believe this win symbolizes a turning point for them?
Lanny McDonald: It’s too early to tell, but I see growth – I see hunger in this Flames squad. They’ve got the pieces, they’ve got the heart, and now they need to build on moments like this win against LA.
I couldn’t agree more. Well Lanny, thanks so much for sharing your insights with us. It’s always a pleasure to hear from a legend. For our readers, what are your thoughts on this exciting Flames victory? Do you think they have what it takes to make a deep playoff run? Let us know in the comments below!**
