Watch: Oilers prospect Connor Clattenburg's uppercut drops Flames' Parker Bell in spirited fight

Oilers prospect Connor Clattenburg made an impact in a rookie game against the Calgary Flames. During the first period of Saturday’s Young Stars Classic, he dropped Flames forward Parker Bell with a solid uppercut. The fight set the tone for the Battle of Alberta’s intense rivalry, even in this rookie matchup.

Clattenburg, a 2024 fifth-round pick, faced off against the 6-foot-5 Bell in front of the Flames’ bench. He landed several uppercuts, knocking off Bell’s helmet and taking him down. The fight energized the crowd at the South Okanagan Events Centre.

After the game, Clattenburg said, via (NHL.com):

"I was just doing whatever I could to get the guys going, and I know after the first game, everyone kind of got up after that first fight. When I have the chance, I just do it and the boys got some energy. It built into the rest of the game."

His effort gave the Oilers a boost, and they scored their first goal 20 seconds later.

Matt Savoie’s strong forecheck forced a turnover, allowing Carl Berglund to score. Savoie’s work ethic stood out, as head coach Colin Chaulk said:

"He had some real good moments. ... It wasn't just this highlight-reel type of offensive opportunity, so I think doing those things in different ways, I think he probably feels a lot better about his game today."

The Flames soon responded. After a penalty on Oilers defenseman Hyde Davidson, Hunter Brzustewicz scored on the power play, tying the game 1-1. Calgary then took the lead when Sam Morton scored on an odd-man rush.

The Oilers had chances, including a close play by Ethan De Jong that hit the post, however, the Flames held their 2-1 lead. Late in the third period, Luke Misa sealed the win for Calgary with an empty-net goal, ending the game 3-1.

Connor Ungar made 19 saves on 22 shots for Edmonton.

Coach Colin Chaulk sees progress in Oilers rookies despite loss

Despite the loss, Oilers AHL affiliate Bakersfield Condors's coach Colin Chaulk saw progress. He said:

"It's a much different feeling for me personally. They made way more plays. They made way more interior plays. We skated and we had the puck a lot more. We shot the puck, we got it back and we extended offensive zone plays."

The Edmonton Rookies have one game remaining and will play the Jets' rookies on Monday.