Full Breakdown
Flames Edge Kings in Shootout, Extend Winning Streak
3/25/2026, 3:46:01 PM
Game Overview
On March 24, 2026, the Calgary Flames defeated the Los Angeles Kings 3-2 in a shootout at the Scotiabank Saddledome, marking the Flames' fourth consecutive victory. The game featured a tightly contested battle, with both teams vying for crucial points in the Western Conference playoff race.
Scoring Summary
The Kings opened the scoring early in the first period when Quinton Byfield netted a goal just 2:35 into the game, assisted by Joel Armia. The Flames responded in the second period, with Olli Maatta scoring his first goal of the season at 14:50, leveling the score at 1-1. Byfield regained the lead for Los Angeles just 17 seconds into the third period with his second goal of the night. However, the Flames tied the game again at 2-2 when Zayne Parekh scored on a power play at 13:02, forcing the game into overtime.
In the shootout, Yegor Sharangovich scored the decisive goal in the fourth round, securing the victory for Calgary after both teams exchanged goals in the initial rounds.
Team Performance
The Flames improved their record to 30-34-7, while the Kings fell to 28-25-18, remaining three points behind the Nashville Predators for the final wild-card spot in the playoffs. Calgary's goaltender, Dustin Wolf, made 23 saves, while Kings' Darcy Kuemper stopped 21 shots. The Kings have now lost four straight games, with three of those losses coming in overtime or shootouts.
Key Players
Quinton Byfield was a standout for the Kings, scoring both of their goals and demonstrating consistent offensive pressure. For the Flames, Zayne Parekh and Olli Maatta contributed significantly, with Parekh's goal being particularly crucial in the comeback effort. Sharangovich's shootout winner highlighted his ability to perform under pressure.
Official Statements & Responses
Kings interim coach D.J. Smith expressed disappointment after the game, stating, "We threw one away, in my opinion. We need two points, and the moral victories don’t help tonight." Meanwhile, Flames forward Yegor Sharangovich noted the importance of winning close games, saying, “We must continue to find ways to win close games like this if we want to make the playoffs."
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the Flames' victory, concerns remain about their playoff chances, as they sit 10 points out of a playoff spot with only 11 games left in the season. Critics argue that while the Flames are playing well, their position in the standings makes it difficult to view their recent success as anything more than a spoiler role.
What's Next
The Kings will look to rebound as they face the Vancouver Canucks on March 26, while the Flames will host the Anaheim Ducks on the same night. Both teams are in critical phases of their seasons, with the Kings needing wins to stay in playoff contention and the Flames aiming to build on their recent success.
