TORONTO — David Rittich's celebration at the final buzzer could be heard throughout an empty Scotiabank Arena.
After a miserable stretch that culminated with an embarrassing loss to his team's biggest rival over the weekend, Calgary's surprise starter knew just how important Monday's result was for a group seemingly teetering on the brink.
Rittich made 34 saves for his first victory of the season, Matthew Tkachuk and Sean Monahan had a goal and an assist each, and the Flames shut out the NHL-leading Toronto Maple Leafs 3-0.
"I was just happy," Rittich said of his delight-filled howl.