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Running Wild: Flames fail to gain ground in playoff race after loss in Minnesota

Thomas Vanek, Mikael Granlund

Minnesota Wild left wing Thomas Vanek (26), of Austria, and center Mikael Granlund, right, of Finland, celebrate Vanek’s goal against Carolina Hurricanes goalie Anton Khudobin during the first period of an NHL hockey game in St. Paul, Minn., Saturday, Feb. 14, 2015. (AP Photo/Ann Heisenfelt)

AP

There was no miraculous third-period comeback for the Calgary Flames. Only a third-period scoring outburst for the Minnesota Wild.

The Wild moved to 93 points, one back of the Chicago Blackhawks, who were in action Friday, for third in the Central Division after defeating the visiting Flames by a final score of 4-2. Contrary to what has become almost like their trademark, the Flames actually conceded three goals in the final 20 minutes and then couldn’t mount a comeback. It’s a blow to their playoff hopes.

Thomas Vanek gave Minnesota the lead earlier in the third period. And the Wild poured it on after that. Mikko Koivu and Zach Parise increased the lead to three goals. Game over, even if the Flames did get one back.

The Flames remain on the outside of the playoff picture for now, one point back of the L.A. Kings for third in the Pacific Division.

Karri Ramo accepts the loss for Calgary, but it’s hard to find fault in his play. The Flames had been living dangerously all game. The Wild had 28 shots on goal through two periods -- Calgary had 15, so it was a bit lopsided in that department -- but only one goal, with Ramo doing all he could to shut the door.

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