Mikael Backlund Records First Career Hat-Trick
If there’s one thing you know as a Calgary flames fan it’s the shared hatred for the divisional rivals. The recent history between the two teams makes every game prospect for gloating rights. With both teams heading for an early off-season, only pride was on the line. As a fan, you look at your team, and although you may not be making the playoffs, it’s oh so satisfying to drop kick the Canucks in grand fashion and take the season series. It wasn’t even a close game–nay–this was a Grade ‘A’ Blowout, the perfect end to an otherwise dismal season.
The Flames traded punches through the first, but Mikael Backlund broke the game open in the second period notching not one, but two goals, to collect his first-career hat-trick. His tallies came on the PP, SH, and even strength. Matt Stajan, playing on the wing the past two games, chalked up 3 assists for his work.
Joe Colbourne and Backlund, along with Brodie and Hamilton (who despite a slow start as a career high in points), are all having banner years (and Joe is looking for a new contract). As for the team, consistency is still issue for the team, and some important pieces on the top and second line wings, still need to be answered, but overall the team is demonstrating that they have some core pieces to build from. Their depth down the middle other defensive corps leave the way. Add a starting goaltender to the mix and Calgary will move back into the thick of the playoff race for next year.
This thing cannot be said for the lowly Canucks for the first time in recent memory will finish with fewer points than the Flames. It’s a tale of two teams going in opposite directions, Calgary being on top.
The FLames locals over the season Saturday on the road against the Minnesota Wild. Backstrom will get the start in net.
It was a great game. Alberta worked for sure but in order to asses the team’s performance overall, I believe that the Calgary Flames certainly ended the season on a positive note and that is a plus for the fans. The inspirational part is that the young guns are really full of energy and well focused on the puck..that is something that is highly required. The talent of Colborne and Backlund has been conspicuous and if only every one stays around, it would be a good season next year.