This past week in the NHL was action-packed. The Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames faced off in the first outdoor game of the season, with the Oilers coming out on top. Meanwhile, the Anaheim Ducks handed the Boston Bruins their first loss of the season, and Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche made an impressive goal against the New York Islanders. Let’s take a closer look at the highlights and storylines from this week in the NHL.
Goal of the week: Cale Makar walks through the Islanders
In a game against the New York Islanders, Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche showed off his skills with a remarkable goal. He effortlessly skated past Islanders defenseman Ryan Pulock and scored with a backhand shot over the shoulder of goalie Ilya Sorokin.
Makar’s performance was exceptional, beating NHL skaters and one of the best goalies in the league. With nine points in eight games, Makar is already being considered for a second Norris Trophy.
Save of the week: Igor Shesterkin robs Andrei Kuzmenko at point-blank range
In a game against the Vancouver Canucks, New York Rangers goalie Igor Shesterkin made an incredible save. Shesterkin stopped a shot from Andrei Kuzmenko at close range and then caught the rebound with his glove, preventing a goal.
This save was one of the standout individual efforts by a goalie this season.
Oilers prevail in first outdoor Battle of Alberta
In a historic matchup, the Edmonton Oilers faced the Calgary Flames in the first outdoor Battle of Alberta. The Oilers came out on top with a decisive 4-1 victory.
The game started with Brett Kulak scoring the first goal for the Oilers. The Flames had several power play opportunities but failed to score. The Oilers continued to dominate, extending their lead to 3-1, and ultimately secured the win with Vincent Desharnais’ first career goal.
On the other hand, the Flames struggled to find their rhythm and are in need of a turnaround.
Ducklings hand Bruins their first loss of the season
The Anaheim Ducks faced a tough challenge against the undefeated Boston Bruins. Trailing 3-1 with under two minutes remaining, the Ducks staged a comeback. Leo Carlsson scored an empty-net goal, Troy Terry tied the game, and Mason McTavish scored the overtime winner.
This victory showcased the talent of the Ducks’ young core and their potential to be a competitive team.
Blackhawks dish Golden Knights their first defeat
The Vegas Golden Knights had a strong start to the season, winning their first seven games. However, the Chicago Blackhawks ended their winning streak with a 4-3 overtime victory. Connor Bedard, among others, contributed to the Blackhawks’ success.
This win was significant for the young Blackhawks team and proved their ability to compete against top teams like the Golden Knights.
Appointment viewing this week
Coyotes at Ducks | Wednesday, Nov. 1: Watch the Anaheim Ducks and Arizona Coyotes, two teams with exciting young players, compete in an entertaining game.
Hurricanes at Rangers | Thursday, Nov. 2: The New York Rangers and Carolina Hurricanes, both vying for the top spot in the Metro Division, face off in a highly anticipated matchup.
Maple Leafs at Bruins | Thursday, Nov. 2: Witness a thrilling rivalry game between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Boston Bruins, currently the top two teams in the Atlantic Division.
Avalanche at Golden Knights | Saturday, Nov. 4: Don’t miss a potential Western Conference Final preview as the Colorado Avalanche take on the Vegas Golden Knights, two of the top-ranked teams in the league.
Bruins at Stars | Monday, Nov. 6: The Boston Bruins face a tough challenge against the Dallas Stars, a legitimate Stanley Cup contender this season.
