TEMPE, Ariz. — The Calgary Flames delivered a commanding performance with a 6-2 win against the Arizona Coyotes at Mullett Arena on Thursday, backed by Yegor Sharangovich’s hat trick and a four-goal first period.
The Flames (19-18-5) have now won five of their last seven games, with Jacob Markstrom making 33 saves in the victory. Key contributions came from Elias Lindholm, Jonathan Huberdeau, and MacKenzie Weegar, each with two assists, propelling the team’s strong offensive display.
Sharangovich was the standout player, scoring three times, including a goal that sealed the win in the third period. He expressed satisfaction with the team’s ability to replicate their strong start from the first period after a slightly less convincing second period.
The Coyotes (20-18-2), despite goals from Clayton Keller and Lawson Crouse, couldn’t recover from the early deficit. Goalie Connor Ingram made 18 saves in relief of Karel Vejmelka, who allowed four goals in the first period. Jason Zucker, a forward for Arizona, acknowledged the team’s lack of detail and poor start.
Calgary’s early scoring, beginning with Mikael Backlund’s breakaway goal just 20 seconds into the game, set the tone. Sharangovich’s short-handed goal and Rasmus Andersson’s quick follow-up further extended the lead. Blake Coleman’s innovative goal led to Vejmelka being replaced in net.
The Coyotes made an effort to bounce back, with Crouse and Keller scoring, but Calgary’s relentless attack, particularly in the third period, sealed the win.
Sharangovich’s chemistry with his linemates was evident, as he has now scored five goals in his last two games and accumulated 11 points in his past seven games.
In team milestones, Backlund passed Mark Giordano for the second-most games played in franchise history. Andersson is now tied for the most game-winning goals among defensemen since the beginning of the 2022-23 season.
Coleman’s recent form has been impressive, recording 11 goals and 22 points in his last 21 games. Lindholm’s effectiveness in faceoffs was also a key factor in the Flames’ dominance.
The win for Calgary showcases their depth in scoring and resilience, while the Coyotes will look to address their early-game struggles and seek a more consistent performance in upcoming games.
