The Calgary Flames delivered a statement victory on the road Friday night, defeating the reigning Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers 5-3 in a thrilling NHL matchup at Sunrise, Florida.
Kadri's Offensive Spark
Nazem Kadri emerged as the driving force behind Calgary's offensive surge, contributing significantly to the Flames' scoring efforts against the struggling Panthers. The victory marked another concerning chapter for Florida, who suffered their fourth loss in six home games this season despite their championship pedigree.
Goaltending Battle and Defensive Efforts
Calgary Flames goaltender Devin Cooley stood tall between the pipes, making several crucial saves throughout the contest. During the second period, Cooley successfully stopped a scoring opportunity while Florida Panthers center Jesper Boqvist and Calgary Flames defenseman Yan Kuznetsov battled for position in front of the net.
The game, played on November 28, 2025, showcased Calgary's ability to compete against elite competition on the road. The Flames' defensive corps, including Kuznetsov, provided solid support for Cooley, limiting high-danger scoring chances against the reigning champions.
Championship Team Struggles Continue
For the Panthers, the loss extends a troubling pattern of home-ice struggles early in the season. As defending Stanley Cup champions, Florida has found maintaining their dominant form challenging, particularly in front of their home crowd at Sunrise.
The Flames' victory demonstrates their potential as a competitive force in the league, while raising questions about whether the Panthers can rediscover the championship form that carried them to hockey's ultimate prize last season.
