On October 9, 2024, the Calgary Flames kicked off their NHL season with a dramatic overtime victory against the Vancouver Canucks, highlighted by Connor Zary’s spectacular overtime winner. This Connor Zary overtime winner Flames moment set an energetic tone for the Flames’ 2024-25 campaign as they battled back from an early deficit in their first game.
Flames Overcome Early Deficit as Canucks Strike Twice Quickly
The Canucks initially dominated, taking a 2-0 lead midway through the first period. Daniel Sprong opened the scoring, followed closely by Brock Boeser just over two minutes later. The Flames felt the pressure rising when Conor Garland’s goal made it 3-0 less than a minute after Boeser’s strike, and Anthony Mantha’s first goal of the season extended Vancouver’s advantage. By the end of the first period, the Canucks held a three-goal lead, applying significant pressure on Calgary.
Calgary’s Recovery Moderates the Score Before Third-Period Surge
The Flames began their comeback in the second period when Rasmus Andersson scored with three minutes remaining, cutting into the Canucks’ lead. The third period proved pivotal, as Martin Pospíšil narrowed the gap early on. Twelve minutes into the period, MacKenzie Weegar evened the score on a power play, building momentum for Calgary. Jonathan Huberdeau then gave the Flames their first lead of the game, only to see J.T. Miller tie it up for Vancouver with less than two minutes to play, pushing the game into overtime.
Connor Zary’s Skillful Finish Clinches Overtime Victory
In overtime, with the game still tied, Martin Pospíšil assisted Connor Zary at center ice, where the Canucks’ defense momentarily faltered, allowing Zary to break into the zone. When Filip Hronek closed in aggressively, Zary executed a toe-drag to his right, outmaneuvering the defender. The Canucks’ goalie was caught out of position during a poke check attempt, giving Zary the opening to slide the puck into the net and win the game for Calgary.
“Flames Goal CONNOR ZARY WINS IT IN OT WITH A BEAUTIFUL GOAL!! WHAT AN INCREDIBLE WIN BY THE FLAMES!” —Robert Munnich, NHL Reporter
The Impact of a Hard-Fought Win Early in the Season
This victory was a strong statement for the Flames, who would continue their successful start with a 5-0-1 record over the first six games. The intense rivalry between the Flames and Canucks, which would later influence the race for the final wild card spot, began on this night. Although Calgary ultimately fell short of securing a postseason berth, their win here demonstrated the team’s resilience and fighting spirit throughout the season.