The Calgary Flames wrapped up a five-game road trip on a high note Thursday night, defeating the Chicago Blackhawks 3-1 at the United Center. The victory, which gave the Flames a 2-3 record on their journey, was highlighted by special teams success and a gritty defensive performance.
Weegar's Painful Redemption
Just two nights after a costly turnover in a loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets, defenceman MacKenzie Weegar responded with a performance defined by sacrifice. In the third period, with the Flames protecting a narrow one-goal lead, Weegar put his body on the line repeatedly.
He absorbed a Connor Bedard slap shot directly to his midsection. Minutes later, he dropped to block an Andre Burakovsky wrist shot with the inside of his left ankle, a play that forced him to briefly leave the ice to recover. These key defensive plays were instrumental in sealing the win for Calgary.
"That's just how I'm contributing right now," said the 32-year-old Weegar, who leads all Flames defencemen in hits and blocks this season. "If that's the way, then so be it. I'll eat 'em. But it was a team effort tonight, it really was."
Backlund Delivers for Family from Sweden
Flames captain Mikael Backlund provided the offensive spark, earning first-star honours with a goal and an assist. His performance was made even more special by the presence of his sister, Malin, and nephew, Nils, who travelled from Sweden to attend the game.
Backlund first helped set up the game's opening goal. On a power play, he collected a rebound from a Connor Zary chance and fed Yegor Sharangovich for an easy finish at 14:21 of the first period.
Just under three minutes later, with the Flames shorthanded, Backlund stole the puck from Burakovsky in the neutral zone. He raced in alone on a breakaway, faked Blackhawks goaltender Spencer Knight, and buried a forehand shot for a spectacular shorthanded goal. After scoring, he immediately looked into the stands to share the moment with his family.
"I was super-excited to see them quickly and celebrate with them," Backlund told Sportsnet post-game. "That was a very nice moment, obviously."
Road Trip Concludes, Homestand Begins
The Flames' special teams set the tone early with both a power-play and a shorthanded goal in the first period. Rookie Matt Coronato iced the game with an empty-net goal late in the third period to finalize the 3-1 scoreline.
With the road trip now complete, the Flames return home to the Scotiabank Saddledome to begin a homestand. Their next test is a Saturday matinee against Matthew Schaefer and the New York Islanders. The team will look to build on the momentum generated by a resilient, full-team effort in Chicago.
The win on January 15, 2026, showcased the Flames' ability to bounce back from adversity, led by their captain's timely scoring and a veteran defender's willingness to do whatever it takes to secure two crucial points.
