Calgary, AB – The St. Louis Blues weathered a determined push from the Calgary Flames to secure a 4-2 victory Saturday night. Jake Neighbours led the charge with two goals, supported by Robert Thomas's goal and assist, and Pius Suter's contribution. Goaltender Joel Hofer, stepping in for Jordan Binnington, proved crucial, stopping 27 shots to earn the win.
The Flames' Matt Coronato responded with two goals of his own, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Blues' resilience. Dustin Wolf made 24 saves in net for Calgary.
Coronato opened the scoring with a power-play goal at 14:49 in the first period. The Blues struggled to find their rhythm early, still feeling the sting of a 5-0 shutout loss to Minnesota in their season opener.
St. Louis found its footing in the second period. Neighbours evened the score at 12:41, beating MacKenzie Weegar to put a backhand shot past Wolf. Robert Thomas then capitalized on a power play at 14:25, rifling a shot into the top corner to give the Blues a 2-1 lead. Coronato answered swiftly, scoring just 32 seconds later to tie the game at 2-2.
The third period saw the Blues take control. Neighbours tipped in a Colton Parayko slapshot at 11:07 to regain the lead. Pius Suter then extended the advantage at 13:33, deflecting a Tyler Tucker shot past Wolf, making it 4-2.
The Flames were without left winger Jonathan Huberdeau for the third consecutive game due to a preseason injury, impacting their power-play efficiency. Calgary's power play has struggled, converting only 2 of 14 opportunities to start the season. St. Louis dominated in the faceoff circle, winning 70% of offensive zone faceoffs and 62% overall.
Despite the loss, the Flames showcased a strong effort, particularly in the second period, but failed to convert numerous scoring chances. The Blues, however, capitalized on their opportunities in the third period to secure the win.
Looking ahead, the Blues will travel to Vancouver to face the Canucks on Monday night. The Flames will return home to host the Vegas Golden Knights on Tuesday night.
