Jonathan Huberdeau and Andrei Kuzmenko were at the heart of the Calgary Flames’ success in a 4-1 victory over the Boston Bruins on Tuesday, and their performances are perhaps a harbinger of great nights to come for them.
In his team’s victory, the Quebecer amassed a goal and two assists, notably being complicit in Kuzmenko’s first goal with the Flames. Moreover, you have to go back to December 20, 2022 to see Huberdeau score at least three points in a game.
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In an interview with the Sportsnet network after the meeting, the former Florida Panthers implied that this is not the last time that we will see the two attackers tormenting opposing defenses.
“We’re going to make plays,” he said. I think we saw it tonight [mardi] and I can’t wait to succeed in more games. We talked a lot and we have to do the same thing night after night.”
Huberdeau and Kuzmenko completed a line piloted by Yegor Sharangovich. According to the Russian, there is still progress to be made, but all three players are on the right track.
“It’s not great,” Kuzmenko said, according to comments relayed by the “Calgary Herald” daily. Because we got a lot of chances and we need more goals. It’s a good line. It’s a very good connection. Every time we are on the ice, we talk. I like this.”
For Huberdeau, the key to success for them is above all defensive efficiency.
“We want to play as much time as possible in their zone, so as not to have to defend,” said the native of Saint-Jérôme. This is our goal. First of all, you have to think about defense. That’s what we did tonight. We have to continue to do this.”
The Flames won’t give up
Despite the departure of Elias Lindholm towards Vancouver, the Flames will continue to push on the accelerator pedal between now and the end of the campaign.
“A pack of hyenas can take down a lion,” explained forward Nazem Kadri. That’s the type of mentality we need: playing as a team and everyone participates. And when we do that, we can accomplish great things.”
The team from southern Alberta is three points behind the St. Louis Blues, who are the last team drafted in the Western Conference.