The Calgary Flames didn’t need flash or flair to get the job done in Chicago. What they did need-and got in spades-was timely goaltending, a gritty response after falling behind early, and just enough offensive punch to outlast the Blackhawks in a 3-1 win.
This wasn’t a game that will make many highlight reels, but it was the kind of performance that speaks to the Flames’ identity this season: hard-working, defensively responsible, and opportunistic. After giving up the opening goal, Calgary answered right back on the next shift and then grabbed the lead with a shorthanded tally just minutes later. From there, it was about managing the game-and that’s exactly what they did.
Grinding It Out, Flames Style
Let’s be honest: this Flames team isn’t built to dazzle. They don’t overwhelm opponents with speed or skill, and they’re not going to run up the scoreboard.
But what they do bring is a blue-collar mentality and a willingness to outwork teams in the trenches. That’s what we saw in Chicago-a group that, despite roster uncertainty and trade rumors swirling, continues to show up and compete.
The underlying numbers back it up. Calgary controlled the pace for much of the night, finishing with a 58.96% Corsi For percentage and a 55.16% share of scoring chances.
High-danger chances were nearly even, but the Flames edged out the Blackhawks there too, 52.03%. Expected goals?
Slightly under 50%, but in a low-event game, that’s not a red flag. It was a game of inches, and the Flames did just enough to tilt the ice in their favor.
Cooley Comes Up Clutch
The biggest reason Calgary walked away with two points? Devin Cooley.
The 26-year-old netminder has quietly become one of the most dependable stories on this roster. When the season began, it wasn’t clear if Cooley would even stick in the NHL.
Now? He’s earned a place in the rotation alongside Dustin Wolf and is making a strong case to see regular starts down the stretch.
Against Chicago, Cooley was sharp from the get-go. He didn’t face an overwhelming workload, but he made the saves that mattered-especially in the third period when the Blackhawks pushed to tie it. His calm presence in the crease has become a stabilizing force for a team that, at times, has struggled to find consistency on the back end.
With Cooley under contract for two more seasons, the Flames have a solid goaltending tandem to build around as they continue to integrate younger talent into the lineup.
Coronato and Zary Trending Up
Matt Coronato led the way in the puck possession department, posting a team-best 71.15% Corsi For. Earlier in the season, he was firing pucks from everywhere, but his recent play has shown more poise and purpose. He’s not quite at the point where the offense runs through him, but he’s getting closer-and that’s a promising sign for Calgary’s long-term outlook.
Connor Zary continues to impress as well. After breaking out of a scoring slump, he’s looked comfortable in just about any role the coaching staff throws at him. His 60.58% Corsi For shows he’s not just surviving out there-he’s driving play.
For a team in transition, consistency from young players like Coronato and Zary is critical. They’re not just filling out the lineup-they’re helping shape what the next generation of Flames hockey might look like.
The Huberdeau Conundrum
On the flip side, Jonathan Huberdeau’s struggles remain one of the most puzzling storylines of the season. No scoring chances, no high-danger looks, and once again, no real impact. At this point, it’s not just a slump-it’s a prolonged stretch of ineffective play that the Flames can’t ignore.
There’s no easy fix here. Huberdeau’s contract isn’t going anywhere, and his role on the team is still significant.
But night after night, he’s not performing like a top-six forward, let alone one of the highest-paid players on the roster. Whether it’s a matter of confidence, system fit, or something else entirely, the Flames need to find a way to get more from him-or at least minimize the damage when he’s not producing.
Youth Movement on Hold?
One lingering question is the usage of the Flames’ bottom six. The fourth line saw minimal ice time, and there’s growing frustration around the lack of opportunity for younger players like William Stromgren. It’s clear head coach Ryan Huska is still pushing for wins and keeping his eyes on the playoff picture, but at what cost?
Injecting speed and energy from the youth ranks could provide a spark-especially on nights when the veterans aren’t moving the needle. Guys like Stromgren bring a different dynamic, and in a game like this one, that jolt of pace might’ve helped stretch the lead or at least make the game more comfortable down the stretch.
Still, this is the tightrope Huska walks: trying to win now while also developing the next wave. It’s not an easy balance, but as the season progresses, it’s one that may need to shift.
Final Thoughts
This was a businesslike win for the Flames-nothing flashy, but effective. Devin Cooley stood tall, the team responded well to early adversity, and the young guns showed up in meaningful ways. Calgary may not be a team that dominates the headlines, but they’re quietly putting together the kind of performances that keep them in the mix.
Three Stars of the Game: 1.
Mikael Backlund - Veteran leadership, strong two-way play, and a steady presence all night. 2.
Devin Cooley - Calm, composed, and clutch when it mattered most. 3.
Matt Coronato - Puck possession machine and growing into a bigger role with each game.
The Flames aren't lighting up the scoreboard, but they’re finding ways to win-and in a season full of uncertainty, that’s worth something.