Opinion
3 min read

Flames and Kraken Clash at the Saddledome: A Battle for Supremacy

As the Calgary Flames prepare to host the Seattle Kraken at the Scotiabank Saddledome, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be an electrifying matchup. The Flames, coming off a thrilling overtime victory against the Boston Bruins on February 23rd, have shown they can keep their cool under pressure and deliver when it counts.


Dec 27, 2023; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Calgary Flames defenseman Chris Tanev (8) controls the puck against the Seattle Kraken during the second period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

The game against Boston was a testament to Calgary's resilience. Despite being outshot 34-30, they managed to edge out a win with a shooting percentage of 10 percent compared to Boston's 6 percent. The Flames' goaltending was particularly impressive; saving all but two shots and showcasing why they're considered one of the most formidable defenses in the league.


However, it wasn't just defense that secured Calgary's victory. Their offense came through in critical moments, netting three goals at even strength and proving that their scoring capabilities shouldn't be underestimated. This balance of strong defense paired with opportunistic offense is what makes CGY such a threat as they head into their next game.


Dec 27, 2023; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Calgary Flames defenseman Chris Tanev (8) and Seattle Kraken center Matty Beniers (10) battle for the puck during the third period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

On February 19th against the Winnipeg Jets, CGY demonstrated offensive prowess by putting six goals past Winnipeg’s goaltender on just 34 shots – an impressive shooting percentage of 18 percent. Their powerplay capitalized once during two opportunities which could be an area for improvement but overall it was an assertive performance from CGY.


However, not every recent game has been smooth sailing for CGY; their encounter with Detroit Red Wings on February 17th serves as a stark reminder that hockey can be unpredictable. Despite firing off an astonishing number of shots (38), none found the back of Detroit’s net resulting in a shutout loss for Calgary.


Dec 27, 2023; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Seattle Kraken defenseman Jamie Oleksiak (24) and Calgary Flames left wing A.J. Greer (18) battle for the puck during the second period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

Looking ahead to facing SEA, there are several factors working in favor of CGY. Firstly, home advantage cannot be overstated – playing in front of their own fans provides energy and momentum which could prove crucial in tight situations. Secondly, SEA will need to watch out for Calgary’s ability to strike at even strength where they have been particularly effective recently.


SEA should not be taken lightly though; any team competing at this level has earned its stripes and can pose significant challenges on any given night. It will take disciplined play from CGY across all lines and special teams units if they want to secure another win before their home crowd.


Fans eager to witness this clash won’t want miss out when these two teams hit the ice on March 5th at Scotiabank Saddledome – puck drop is scheduled for March 4th at 7:30 PM local time (9:30 PM EST). The action can also be followed live on ESPN+ or ROOT Sports NW depending on your preferred viewing platform.

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