DeBrincat nets hat trick as hot Red Wings beat Flames 6-2

**Detroit Red Wings Extend Winning Streak to Five Games with DeBrincat Hat Trick**

DETROIT (AP) — In a dominant performance, the Detroit Red Wings secured their fifth consecutive victory by defeating the tired Calgary Flames 6-2 on Sunday. Alex DeBrincat, who has been on fire since joining the team in the off-season, contributed his fifth career hat trick and increased his season goal total to a league-leading eight.

When asked about his success, DeBrincat humbly attributed it to learning from great players throughout his career and relying on his natural instincts. He explained, “Being smaller than others, I’ve had to develop different scoring techniques apart from using brute force.”

Joe Veleno, who has been in excellent form recently, scored his third goal in two games, while Dylan Larkin provided a goal and an assist. The team also received contributions from Jake Walman, who scored his first goal of the season, and Justin Holl and Lucas Raymond, who each provided three assists. James Reimer showcased his skills between the pipes, making 29 saves for the Red Wings.

Playing in the second game of a back-to-back after a victory in Ottawa, coach Derek Lalonde challenged the team to remain focused and avoid coming out flat. The players answered the call with a strong effort. Lalonde said, “Despite the emotional game yesterday and the back-to-back, our guys really stepped up and delivered.”

For Calgary, Andrew Mangiapane and Yegor Sharangovich scored, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Detroit’s dominance. Goaltender Dan Vladar made 24 saves for the Flames, who concluded their exhausting five-game road trip with a disappointing 1-3-1 record.

Mikael Backlund, Calgary’s center, acknowledged the need for improvement, stating, “We can’t afford to fall behind. We need to stay competitive in the race.”

DeBrincat wasted no time making an impact, scoring his first goal of the game just 1:59 into the first period. Veleno added to the lead halfway through the period with a deflection off a shot by Ben Chiarot. Early in the second period, DeBrincat assisted Larkin, who found the back of the net to make it 3-0 for Detroit.

Calgary managed to get on the scoreboard with just under eight minutes remaining in the second period, as Mangiapane capitalized on a rebound. However, Detroit responded quickly, with Larkin setting up DeBrincat for a powerful one-timer that beat Vladar on the stick side.

Late in the second period, Sharangovich scored for Calgary, reducing their deficit to two goals. However, Detroit continued to dominate, with goals from Walman and DeBrincat, who completed his hat trick with a remarkable shot from the left circle.

Reflecting on DeBrincat’s performance, Larkin praised his teammate’s hockey sense and ability to find scoring opportunities where others can’t. He said, “Playing alongside a player like him, who constantly anticipates and finds open spaces, has been a learning experience for me.”

After the game, Flames coach Ryan Huska acknowledged the team’s shortcomings, particularly the turnover of pucks that led to Detroit’s numerous scoring opportunities. He emphasized the need to improve in order to achieve success in future matches.

**ICE CHIPS:** Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson served the first game of his four-game suspension for a charging penalty committed in a game against Columbus on Friday. DeBrincat set a franchise record by scoring eight goals in his first six games with the club, surpassing Ed Litzenberger’s record of six goals in the same span set in 1961. Larkin has an impressive history against Calgary, amassing 16 points in 15 career games.

**UP NEXT:**
– Flames: Host New York Rangers on Tuesday.
– Red Wings: Host Seattle on Tuesday.

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Sarah Anderson

Sarah Anderson dives into the fast-paced world of NHL hockey. Her coverage includes game analysis, player spotlights, and the latest news from the ice. Sarah’s dedication to the sport ensures that hockey enthusiasts stay informed about the NHL’s thrilling action.