Flames 4, Wild 1: Calgary Halts Minnesota's Streak
Some home games arrive at the perfect moment, and this felt like one of them. After nearly two weeks spent living out of suitcases, the Flames finally stepped back into the Saddledome and looked like a group that hadn’t forgotten how to feed off their own crowd. The Wild came in riding a 12-game point streak, full of confidence and rhythm, but Calgary met them with good structure, steady legs, and a goalie who refused to blink. In the end, the 4-1 score favoured the Flames.
Minnesota had its chances early. Four first-period power plays should have tilted the ice, but Dustin Wolf was sharp from the opening draw. He tracked pucks cleanly, fought through screens, and bought the Flames time to settle in. Once Calgary found its stride in the second period, the rhythm of the night changed. Jonathan Huberdeau’s goal—one he badly needed—sparked the bench and gave the team a foothold they never really surrendered.
The third period became a test of composure against a strong opponent. Two quick Flames goals, one from Matt Coronato and one from Connor Zary, broke the game open and reminded everyone that Calgary’s skill and pace can play against anyone when they’re dialed in.
Key Point One: Flames’ Dustin Wolf Sets the Table
Dustin Wolf’s first period was the difference between staying in the game and chasing it. He stopped all four Wild power plays and made the kind of timely saves that settle a bench. He played a controlled, confident game.
Key Point Two: Jonathan Huberdeau Gets a Needed Breakthrough
Jonathan Huberdeau’s backhand goal didn’t just open the scoring; it ended a 14-game drought. You could see the relief in his posture. He’s been generating chances, and this felt like the one that might start moving his game forward.
Key Point Three: The Flames’ Kids Push the Pace
Matt Coronato and Connor Zary sparked the third period with energy and finish. Coronato’s slot shot was pure decisiveness, while Zary’s 2-on-1 goal showed instinct and touch. When the young players drive momentum, the entire team feels quicker.
Final Thoughts from the Flames Perspective
This was a solid home effort—structured, responsible, and opportunistic. Calgary didn’t chase the Wild’s pace; they dictated their own. The penalty kill stayed perfect again, now five straight games without allowing a power-play goal.
Ending another team’s 12-game point streak is the kind of win that reminds a team what it looks like when the details are tight and the legs are committed. A long road trip can drain a group, but this one seemed to sharpen the Flames instead.
If the Flames can bottle this mix of patience and push, things might start tilting in the right direction.