What's Happening?
The Calgary Flames defeated the St. Louis Blues 2-1 in a shootout on March 18, 2026, at the Scotiabank Saddledome. The victory marked the end of a two-game losing streak for the Flames and was their first win against the Blues in nine meetings. Calgary's
Joel Farabee and rookie Matvei Gridin scored in the shootout, while Connor Zary scored early in the first period for the Flames. Goaltender Devin Cooley was instrumental in the win, making 26 saves during regulation and overtime, and stopping both of the Blues' shootout attempts. The game was marked by a series of overturned goals due to coach's challenges, with St. Louis coach Jim Montgomery successfully challenging three potential goals, a rare feat in the NHL.
Why It's Important?
This victory is significant for the Calgary Flames as it not only ends their losing streak but also boosts their morale as they begin a six-game homestand. For the St. Louis Blues, the loss is a setback in their pursuit of a playoff spot, as they are currently six points out of a playoff position with 14 games remaining. The game also highlights the strategic use of coach's challenges in the NHL, with St. Louis successfully overturning three goals, showcasing the importance of video review in modern hockey. The outcome of this match could influence the playoff dynamics in the Western Conference, affecting both teams' strategies in the remaining games of the season.
What's Next?
The Calgary Flames will look to build on this victory as they continue their homestand, aiming to improve their standings and potentially secure a playoff spot. The St. Louis Blues, on the other hand, will need to regroup and focus on winning their upcoming games to keep their playoff hopes alive. Both teams will likely analyze the use of coach's challenges and video reviews to refine their strategies in future matches. The outcome of the remaining games will be crucial for both teams as they navigate the competitive landscape of the NHL's Western Conference.
