After the Flames qualified for the 2004 post-season for the first
time in seven years, Calgary fans saw a unique first:
Flames forward Martin Gelinas earned the nickname “the
Eliminator” by becoming the first player in NHL history to end three
playoff series with game-winning goals.
All three opponents were division champions.
In the opening round, Calgary took Vancouver to a Game Seven
that went beyond regulation. Gelinas scored 1:25 into overtime.
In the Western Conference Semifinals against Presidents’ Trophy winners Detroit, the Flames bested the Red Wings in six games. Game Six also went
into overtime and Gelinas once again scored the winner with 47 seconds left in
the first OT period.
In the Western Conference Finals, Calgary took care of San
Jose in six games. In the sixth and final game of the series on May 19, 2004, the
Shawinigan-born forward scored 13:02 into the second period. It would turn out
to be the game winner, thus earning Gelinas his nickname.
While the Flames didn’t win the Stanley Cup that year, the
passion brought out by the fanbase during that playoff run captivated the league
like nothing before.
Last but not least, it also made Gelinas a popular figure in Southern Alberta and a notable figure in Flames’ lore.
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