from Eric Francis of Sportsnet,

More shots than a New Year’s Eve party.

That’s how the Calgary Flames celebrated their first game of 2022, taking a club record 26 shots on goal in a second period Sunday that put on display exactly how Darryl Sutter’s team wants — and needs — to play.

While some still mistake their game as being “defence-first,” the true calling card of this club is a tenacious forecheck that, when fully engaged, keeps the opposition on its heels in its own zone.

Mission accomplished Sunday, giving the Flames a 5-1 win in Chicago for their second straight victory since the team emerged from its shocking Covid break.

The ability to rest and recharge through a 19-day break in action due to Omicron should continue to serve the team well.

“I think the second period just showed how we can play when we’re playing good hockey and have a lot of shots and create a lot of chances,” said Elias Lindholm

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Watch the game highlights below.