Seattle Kraken centre Berkly Catton (#27) controls the puck while Calgary Flames defenceman Hunter Brzustewicz (#48) and centre Clark Bishop (#61) work to block him during the first period of a pre-season NHL game on Sunday, September 22, 2024, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Jason Redmond)
The Calgary Flames sent a strong message Sunday night, overpowering the Seattle Kraken 6-1 in a preseason game at Climate Pledge Arena. Both teams had disappointing finishes last season, each missing the playoffs with 81 points in the Western Conference. During the off-season, both squads promised to improve, hoping to make a stronger bid for the playoffs this year.
From the start, it was clear the Flames were serious about that pledge. Calgary wasted no time asserting their dominance, scoring three quick goals in the first period. Even though the Kraken outshot them 14-10 in the opening frame, the Flames took advantage of their chances. Clark Bishop, Matt Coronato, and Adam Klapka all found the back of the net within the first 12 minutes, catching Kraken goalie Philipp Grubauer off guard.
In the second period, the Flames didn’t let up, despite again being outshot, this time 13-9. Jeremie Poirier added another goal, widening the gap to 4-0. The Flames’ defence and goaltending were rock solid throughout, with Dustin Wolf standing tall between the pipes.
As the third period began, Calgary’s offense continued to roll. Adam Klapka notched his second goal of the night, and Martin Frk added another to push the score to a commanding 6-0. The Kraken finally managed to get on the board when Nathan Villeneuve broke Wolf’s shutout bid. Still, it was too little, too late for Seattle.
The Flames’ offense was well-rounded, with Matt Coronato, Samuel Honzek, and Hunter Brzustewicz each tallying two assists. Wolf was outstanding, stopping 33 of 34 shots, and helping his team cruise to victory.
On the Kraken side, Philipp Grubauer had a rough night, saving only 15 of the 19 shots he faced. Ales Stezka took over in the final period, making six saves on eight shots.
Although it’s just preseason, the Flames' performance was a statement win, showing their intent to come back stronger this season. The Kraken, on the other hand, will need to regroup and adjust as they aim to avoid another disappointing season. For now, Calgary can enjoy this dominant start, hoping it sets the tone for a successful campaign.
