Opinion
3 min read

Can the Calgary Flames Blaze Past the Detroit Red Wings at Scotiabank Saddledome?

As the Calgary Flames prepare to host the Detroit Red Wings at Scotiabank Saddledome, fans are eager to see if their team can carry forward their momentum and secure another victory. The upcoming clash on February 17 is poised to be a spectacle of skill and strategy, with both teams looking to assert dominance on the ice.


Oct 22, 2023; Detroit, Michigan, USA;  Calgary Flames center Nazem Kadri (91) takes a shot on Detroit Red Wings goaltender James Reimer (47) in the first period at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

The Flames have shown a commendable performance in recent games, particularly in their last home game against the Florida Panthers on December 19. With an impressive shooting percentage of 12 percent and a powerplay that held strong despite five opportunities given to the Panthers, they managed to secure a win with three goals scored while allowing only one. Their goaltending was exceptional, saving 33 out of 34 shots—a save percentage that speaks volumes about their defensive prowess.


However, it wasn't just defense where CGY shined; they were also aggressive in offense. The team's ability to capitalize on shorthanded opportunities was evident as they scored two shorthanded goals out of just two shots. This level of efficiency could be crucial against DET who will need to be wary of CGY's counter-attacking threat.


Oct 22, 2023; Detroit, Michigan, USA;  Calgary Flames defenseman MacKenzie Weegar (52) passes while being defended by Detroit Red Wings center Dylan Larkin (71) in the second period at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

On December 22 against Anaheim Ducks, CGY displayed resilience by not conceding any goals throughout the game and securing a shutout victory with three goals scored—two at even strength and one during powerplay situations. Their goaltender saved all 25 shots faced that night, which should instill confidence in them for future matches.


Despite these strong performances by CGY, there are areas for improvement such as faceoff win percentages which have been inconsistent across games. They will need to focus on maintaining control from faceoffs against DET who might exploit any weakness in this area.


Oct 22, 2023; Detroit, Michigan, USA;  Calgary Flames center Mikael Backlund (11) takes a shot defended by Detroit Red Wings defenseman Jake Walman (96) in the first period at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

The Detroit Red Wings come into this game after facing various challenges in their season but cannot be underestimated as they always have potential for upsets. They will look towards exploiting any gaps left open by CGY's aggressive playstyle while aiming for precision in their own attacks.


In conclusion, if Calgary Flames can maintain their solid goaltending performance coupled with efficient scoring seen in past games while improving faceoff outcomes—they stand a good chance of overcoming Detroit Red Wings' challenge at home ground.


Flames fans should mark their calendars for February 17 when these two teams meet at Scotiabank Saddledome at 2:00 PM MST (4:00 PM EST). The action can be caught live nationally via ESPN+ or locally through BSDET channel number 663 for those supporting away from home.

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