Opinion
3 min read

Can Flames Overcome Sharks in Upcoming Scotiabank Showdown?

As the Calgary Flames prepare to host the San Jose Sharks at the Scotiabank Saddledome, fans are eager to see if their team can carry forward the momentum from their recent performances. The upcoming game on February 15 promises to be a thrilling encounter, and based on past data, there's reason for optimism within the Flames camp.


Apr 12, 2023; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; San Jose Sharks center Noah Gregor (73) scores a goal against Calgary Flames goaltender Dustin Wolf (32) during the first period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

The last time CGY took to the ice, they faced off against formidable opponents in Los Angeles Kings. Despite a valiant effort that saw them net three goals and launch 32 shots at goal, they fell short with a final score of 3-5 on December 24. This loss was marked by an even-strength performance where they managed one goal from 14 shots and won just under half of their faceoffs. Their powerplay opportunities were capitalized once out of six chances, but it wasn't enough to secure victory.


However, looking back at another recent game against Anaheim Ducks on December 22 provides a more encouraging picture. The Flames dominated with a shutout win of 3-0 while unleashing an impressive barrage of 44 shots. Their powerplay was particularly effective that day; scoring once out of seven opportunities is something they'll hope to replicate against SJ.


Apr 12, 2023; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Calgary Flames defenseman Nikita Zadorov (16) celebrates his goal with teammates against the San Jose Sharks during the third period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

In their own backyard against Florida Panthers on December 19, CGY showcased defensive prowess by allowing only one goal throughout the game while scoring three themselves – two shorthanded – demonstrating both resilience and opportunism in special teams situations.


The statistics suggest that when CGY plays with discipline and capitalizes on powerplays while maintaining solid goaltending – which has seen save percentages consistently at or near perfect in these past games – they have every chance of success. They will need this same level of performance against SJ who will not make things easy for them.


Apr 12, 2023; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; San Jose Sharks goaltender Kaapo Kahkonen (36) makes a save against the Calgary Flames during the second period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

The Sharks come into this match-up as visitors but cannot be underestimated; any lapse in concentration or discipline from Calgary could be punished by an opportunistic San Jose side looking for points away from home.


Looking ahead to February 15th's clash between these two sides, it is clear that if CGY can maintain their strong defensive play and capitalize on special teams as they have shown capable in previous outings, there is every reason for fans to believe that victory can be secured at home soil.


Flames supporters should mark their calendars for this exciting match-up scheduled for February 15th at Scotiabank Saddledome starting at 9:00 PM EST (7:00 PM local time). For those unable to attend in person, you can catch all the action live nationally via ESPN+ or locally through NBCS-CA channel number 698.

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