Welcomed with Open Arms: Määttä Talks About His Exciting Night and Future

The Utah Hockey Club bounced back in a big way, securing a 5-1 victory over the Calgary Flames on Wednesday night at the Delta Center. Defenseman Mikhail Sergachev was a standout, contributing three points with one goal and two assists, bringing his total to five points over the last three games. Having his 18-month-old son, Theodore, in the stands alongside his wife and parents made the evening even more special for Sergachev.

Sergachev expressed his joy, saying, “He saw me score tonight…He has come to every game here. He almost says it now in Russian, ‘hockey.’ He brings his stick and tries to play. It’s cool.” This personal milestone added an extra layer of motivation as the team snapped a four-game losing streak.

The Thunderbirds displayed a determined effort in this game, especially after a disappointing loss to the San Jose Sharks earlier in the week. Although they trailed in shots on goal after the first period, they managed to generate quality scoring opportunities and sustained pressure in the offensive zone. Head coach André Tourigny noted the team’s focus and urgency, stating, “We were exactly where we should be mentally. We were not frustrated or emotional; we were determined.”

Sergachev played a key role in getting the team off to a strong start, assisting Alex Kerfoot’s opening goal at 4:41 of the first period. Kerfoot took a pass from the high slot and fired it past Flames goalie Dustin Wolf, giving Utah an early lead.

As the first period neared its end, Utah increased its advantage with just 1.6 seconds remaining. Ian Cole brought the puck into the zone and dropped it to Nick Schmaltz, who found Barrett Hayton open in the left circle. Hayton scored his fifth goal of the season, marking his first since October 16.

Calgary responded early in the second period with a goal from Anthony Mantha at 3:53, narrowing the score to 2-1. However, Utah quickly regained its two-goal cushion just 17 seconds later. Maveric Lamoureux scored his first NHL goal with a powerful shot from the point, putting Utah ahead 3-1 at 4:10. Jack McBain assisted, pushing the puck to Lamoureux after a play behind the net. The 20-year-old defenseman had just been recalled from the AHL’s Tucson Roadrunners, and his excitement was evident. “Especially scoring here with all the fans, that was loud. It was something like I dreamed of. That was definitely special,” he said.

Utah’s power play had struggled recently, going five games without a goal, but Sergachev changed that at 16:32 of the second period, scoring from just above the right circle to extend the lead to 4-1. Clayton Keller added another power-play goal for Utah at 5:13 of the third period, converting a rebound off Dylan Guenther’s shot to seal the game at 5-1.

Sergachev highlighted the team’s commitment to their offensive play, saying, “I thought we were aggressive and committed to going to the net and getting open for each other.” He expressed satisfaction in winning in front of their fans and showcasing their capabilities.

The team’s defensive performance was further bolstered by the recent acquisition of Olli Määttä from the Detroit Red Wings, who played 20:06 in his debut against Calgary. Määttä quickly integrated with the team, noting the warm welcome he received and the strong organizational culture. “I just wanted to go out there and play,” he remarked.

Wednesday’s victory was a much-needed turnaround for the Thunderbirds, offering a welcome contrast to their previous game. However, maintaining this level of play will be crucial, as emphasized by the players. Utah will face a test of consistency with a four-game road trip on the horizon.

Keller encapsulated the challenge ahead, stating, “It’s the best league in the world, and it’s hard to do it consistently every single night. That’s something we are striving for.” The team will look to carry this momentum forward as they seek to build on their success.