Calgary 3 – NYI 2
Well it’s be a while since the Flames pulled out a last minute victory hasn’t it? Calgary continued their road pace with their 16th win as they travel along the US Eastern sea board. Tonight was a homecoming of sorts for Travis Hamonic, who returned to NY to face his old team for the first time since being traded. He played a solid game (his partner less so) and contributed to the eventual game winner.
The GWG was potted by Matt Tkachuk. His second of the game scored much like the first, nice tip after setting up shop in front of the net. Tkachuk decided to make the difference in tonight’s game as secondary scoring combined for the three goals. The top line was quiet again with Gaudreau spending most of the time on the outside shooting at impossible angles.
The team also played down a forward when Lomberg decided to get his face punched in an unequal tilt in the first period.
But the story of the game, apart from Tkachuk’s 2 goals and 3 drawn penalties, was Mike Smith. He went down with what looked like a bad groin injury on the last shot of the game. Talk about unlucky. It’s not David Rittch for the foreseeable future, which means the time is now for Rittich to prove his worth. That means Jon Gillies is going to be up with the big club. Parson recently got hurt in Stockton so we’ll see if the Flames need to sign a goalie.
Boston up next on Tuesday as the road swing continues. We’ll see which Flames team shows up then. We can rest somewhat assured that Rittich will be solid in goal, however.
Road warriors is the best title we can give the Calgary Flames. Everyone played solid and the fourth line actually brought the Flames on board. What a collaborative effort it had been!
Matthew Tkachuk continues to amaze and it wasn’t just about drawing penalties, but his overall contribution. Wonder whether NHL’s perception has changed about his suspensions now.
Mike Smith’s injury was most unfortunate to witness; and a speedy recovery is wished for him. Perhaps this is an opportunity for David Rittich to be between the pipes; and Jon Gillies deserves a call.