Flames Grind Out 3-1 Win in Chicago, Capping Road Trip with a Statement in Simplicity
The Calgary Flames wrapped up their five-game road swing with a 3-1 win over the Chicago Blackhawks on Thursday night-a performance that won’t make many highlight reels, but one that showed exactly how this team can win when they play to their strengths.
Let’s call it what it was: a low-event, tight-checking affair where Calgary dictated the pace and dragged the Blackhawks into a game that suited the Flames’ current identity. It wasn’t flashy, but it was effective-and for a team still searching for consistency, that’s a win in more ways than one.
Early Punch, Quick Response
Chicago struck first, just 2:38 into the game. Colton Dach found Nick Foligno with a clean feed in the slot, and Foligno snapped it past Devin Cooley to give the Blackhawks the early edge. It was a textbook rush goal-quick transition, smart spacing, and a finish that left little doubt.
But Calgary didn’t let the early goal rattle them. Less than a minute later, Nazem Kadri drew a penalty, and the Flames’ power play went to work.
Connor Zary drove hard to the net-he didn’t score, but the chaos he created opened the door for Yegor Sharangovich to bury a rebound and tie things up. That marked Calgary’s fourth power play goal in two games, a promising sign for a unit that’s been hit-or-miss all season.
Then came the momentum swing. MacKenzie Weegar took a penalty, putting Calgary on the kill.
But instead of retreating, Mikael Backlund jumped on a loose puck in the neutral zone, picked Andre Burakovsky’s pocket, and turned it into a shorthanded goal with a slick deke and finish. Just like that, the Flames flipped a 1-0 deficit into a 2-1 lead-all in the span of a few minutes, and all on special teams.
A Game of Control, Not Chaos
The second period didn’t offer much in terms of offense, but that played right into Calgary’s hands. The Flames kept things structured and disciplined, limiting Chicago’s chances while generating a few of their own. Both teams traded a few big hits and a little post-whistle spice, but the scoreboard stayed quiet.
By the third period, the Blackhawks began to push. Down a goal at home, they had no choice.
But Calgary did a solid job managing the pressure. They didn’t get hemmed in, didn’t panic, and avoided the kind of breakdowns that have cost them in other close games this season.
Matt Coronato sealed it with an empty-netter late in the third, giving the Flames a 3-1 cushion and locking up a hard-earned two points.
Why Calgary Won
This was a game Calgary controlled not with overwhelming skill, but with structure and special teams. They outscored Chicago 2-0 in the non-5-on-5 situations, and that was the difference. The power play converted, the penalty kill flipped the script with a shorthanded goal, and the Flames didn’t beat themselves.
It was a classic road win: patient, poised, and opportunistic. Calgary didn’t chase the game-they dictated it.
Red Warrior: Mikael Backlund
Backlund was everywhere early. He picked up an assist on the Sharangovich goal and then scored the eventual game-winner shorthanded.
He played with pace, smarts, and his usual defensive reliability. Oh, and with that assist, he passed Mark Giordano for sixth all-time in franchise assists (366).
Just another night of quietly doing everything right.
Turning Point
The back-to-back special teams goals in the first period flipped this game on its head. After giving up the early goal, Calgary could’ve sagged.
Instead, they responded immediately and took control. That stretch not only changed the scoreboard-it changed the tone of the night.
Notes and Numbers
- Devin Cooley, back in net after dealing with illness, got the start and looked solid. He wasn’t tested often, but he made the necessary stops.
- Calgary’s special teams have now scored multiple goals in back-to-back games-a welcome trend for a team that’s struggled to generate consistent offense at even strength.
- The Flames finished their five-game road trip with a 3-2-0 record.
Not perfect, but certainly respectable.
What’s Next
The Flames (20-23-4) return home for a five-game homestand, starting Saturday afternoon against the New York Islanders. If they can bring the same defensive structure and special teams punch to the Saddledome, they’ll give themselves a real shot to build some momentum.
This wasn’t a game that will be remembered for its flair, but it might be remembered for its function. Calgary needed a win, and they got one by playing the kind of hockey that travels well-simple, smart, and stingy.