Calgary Flames forward Justin Kirkland had plenty to smile about during Monday night’s 3-1 victory over the LA Kings, even if he had a few fists flying toward his head.
The newly minted fan favourite had endeared himself to the fan base with his long and winding road to the NHL and his work ethic. Kirkland has been such a hit with the Calgary faithful that he has already earned the nickname “Costco” from many.
He decided to win over even more fans last night, dropping the gloves with Kings rookie Samuel Helenius for his first-ever NHL fight — and he did it with a big smile on his face.
First NHL game. ✅
First NHL fight. ✅
Welcome to the show, Samuel!#NHLonPrime | @LAKings pic.twitter.com/QsIwgLDIzr
— Sports on Prime Canada (@SportsOnPrimeCA) November 12, 2024
The two players traded a few big blows before ultimately being tied up by the officials. There was no clear winner, but Kirkland clearly enjoyed himself throughout the bout. It was a great result considering the size difference between the six-foot-three Kirkland and the towering six-foot-six Helenius.
While it was his first fight during the NHL regular season, it isn’t the first time he’s dropped the gloves in a Flames sweater.
Back in his first stint with the Flames in 2021, Kirkland fought Seattle Kraken defenceman Vince Dunn in a preseason game. He also fought as a member of the Arizona Coyotes in a preseason game against the Anaheim Ducks last season.
As long as he keeps playing this same style of game, he’ll only become more beloved by Flames fans as the season wears on.