Calgary Flames defeat Vancouver Canucks 3-1

Nazem Kadri’s 14th Goal Lifts Flames Over Canucks 3-1

The Calgary Flames secured a crucial 3-1 victory over the Vancouver Canucks as Nazem Kadri’s 14th goal of the season proved to be the game-winner in the third period. The Flames now hold the second wild-card spot in the Western Conference after leapfrogging the Canucks in the standings. With just one regulation loss in their last seven games, Calgary is hitting their stride at the right time.

Alongside Kadri’s heroics, Connor Zary and Jonathan Huberdeau, who scored into an empty net, also contributed to the Flames’ offensive output. The win further solidifies Calgary’s position in the playoff race, while the Canucks continue to struggle with only one win in their last six outings.

Rookie goaltender Dustin Wolf put on a stellar performance with 23 saves, improving his record to 12-5-2. On the other end, Kevin Lankinen returned to the crease for the Canucks but couldn’t contain the Flames’ offensive firepower, making 26 saves and falling to 14-6-4 on the season.

Key Takeaways

Despite missing key players like Quinn Hughes and Elias Pettersson due to injuries, the Canucks relied on Brock Boeser for their lone goal. Boeser, on a hot streak with four goals in as many games, now has 14 goals on the season.

Zary’s milestone goal in his 100th NHL game showcased the Flames’ depth, with a well-executed play involving Jakob Pelletier and Yegor Sharangovich leading to the crucial score.

Crucial Moments and Stats

The pivotal moment came in the third period when Kadri capitalized on Huberdeau’s precise pass during a 3-on-2 rush, reclaiming the lead for the Flames just minutes after the Canucks had tied the game on the power play.

The goaltending duel between Wolf and Lankinen highlighted the game, with Wolf boasting an impressive 10-1-1 record at home, while Lankinen’s road record dropped to 10-2-1 after the loss at the Scotiabank Saddledome.

Upcoming Matches

The Canucks will face the Seattle Kraken next on Thursday, while the Flames are set to host the Utah Hockey Club in their next game.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on December 31, 2024.