Markstom holds the fort as Flames claim their season opener

Andrew Mangiapane scored twice in a three-point game and Elias Lindholm notched the game-winner to go with two assists as the Calgary Flames kicked off the season with a 5-3 victory over the visiting Winnipeg Jets.

However, all of that offensive production wouldn’t have mattered without Jacob Markstrom’s outstanding 34-save performance in goal.

The Flames flipped an all-too familiar script from last season, being outshot by a 37-22 count yet notching a late goal to claim victory.

MacKenzie Weegar and Rasmus Andersson also scored for the Flames, who delivered a victory to new head coach Ryan Huska in his first game since taking the reins.

Kyle Connor, Alex Iafallo and Mark Scheifele replied for the Jets, who received a 17-save outing from goaltender Connor Hellebuyck.

Markstrom, whose struggles last season were one of the major issues while the Flames fell short of a playoff berth was the reason the Flames were even in the game, despite the fact Calgary never trailed.

The shots were 10-2 Jets at the six-minute mark. Through two periods, Markstrom had made as many saves while his team was shorthanded as he made during even-strength play: 13.

The Flames return to action Saturday against the Pittsburgh Penguins, the first outing in a five-game road trip that also includes clashes with the Washington Capitals, Buffalo Sabres, Columbus Blue Jackets and Detroit Red Wings.